A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Bryce Canyon National Park vs. Denali National Park for Hiking, Backpackers, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Bryce Canyon National Park or Denali National Park?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Bryce Canyon National Park and Denali National Park can help you decide which place is right for you.

Bryce Canyon National Park

Bryce Canyon National Park is a other-worldly, breathtaking, and spectacular park. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. Visitors also love the hiking.

Denali National Park

Denali National Park is a epic, vast, and rugged park. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. Visitors also love the hiking.

Bryce Canyon National Park and Denali National Park: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Pros
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to Denali (Mount McKinley)
Things to Consider
  • Less hiking options


Is there more to do in Bryce Canyon National Park or Denali National Park?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Bryce Canyon National Park than Denali National Park, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Bryce Canyon National Park is better known for its hiking, while Denali National Park is more popular for its museums and resorts. Bryce Canyon National Park is more touristy than Denali National Park and is known for its striking hoodoos and grand natural amphitheaters. Also, Bryce Canyon National Park is famous for . Denali National Park is well known for its vast wilderness and iconic Alaskan wildlife.


How is Bryce Canyon National Park different from Denali National Park?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Denali National Park and Bryce Canyon National Park. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Bryce Canyon National Park or Denali National Park?

Bryce Canyon National Park
Denali National Park

Denali National Park is adequate for its historical sights. However, Bryce Canyon National Park is not known for its sights and museums.

While most people don't head to Denali National Park specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. Denali's Museum Collection includes more than 25,000 different items that reflect the region's history, culture, and geology.

Bryce Canyon National Park offers a few options for museum-goers. While information is available at the visitor center, there are no real museums within the park.


Is the Food Better in Bryce Canyon National Park or Denali National Park? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Bryce Canyon National Park
Denali National Park

Both Bryce Canyon National Park and Denali National Park offer respectable local cuisine and restaurants.

You'll find the standard options when it comes to food in Bryce Canyon National Park. There are a couple of restaurants within the park. Just outside the park there are a number of options as well, including large buffets that cater to large tour groups and the tourist crowds. It's best to arrive early for these buffets.

Denali National Park may not make the list for most foodies, but you'll find what you need while you're in town. During the summer months there are restaurants open along Highway 3 as well as the Morino Grill near the Denali Visitor Center.

Is Bryce Canyon National Park or Denali National Park Better for Nightlife?

Bryce Canyon National Park
Denali National Park

Neither Bryce Canyon National Park or Denali National Park offer decent nightlife.

The nightlife scene is quiet in Bryce Canyon National Park There's no full service bar in town, so plan ahead if you want to have drinks.

People don't go to Denali National Park for the nightlife. Visitors come to the park to see the nature, not for the nightlife.

Is Bryce Canyon National Park or Denali National Park Better for Resorts?

Bryce Canyon National Park
Denali National Park

Denali National Park is very good for its luxury resorts. However, Bryce Canyon National Park is not known for its resorts.

With a selection of resorts, Denali National Park makes a nice vacation spot. Most visitors stay nearby the Denali Park Entrance. It has the most affordable hotels and lodges, some of which have a lot of personality. Alternatively, you could stay in the more remote area of Kantishna. These lodges are more expensive and all-inclusive, but they are also far away from most conveniences.

You might not think of Bryce Canyon National Park as a resort destination, but it has a few places. There's a lodge within the park and the hotels outside the park are mostly operated by Ruby's Inn and Bryce Canyon Resort.


Is Bryce Canyon National Park or Denali National Park Better for Hiking?

Bryce Canyon National Park
Denali National Park

Bryce Canyon National Park is a must-visit destination for hiking. Also, Denali National Park is not as popular, but is still a nice park for the nearby hiking options.

Many people visit Bryce Canyon National Park specifically for its hiking. Hiking through the iconic hoodoos is a truly magical experience. There are shorter hikes such as the Mossy Cave Trail or the Sunset Point to Sunrise Point Trail. There are also more intense hikes and even a number of backcountry trails that will let you experience the park on a more personal level.

Denali National Park has hiking trails worth exploring. If you're looking for a marked trail, there are limited options within the park. Those that do exist are located near the park entrance and are usually just a couple of miles long. Off-trail hiking is what makes for the most memorable experience. Make sure you stop off at the visitor center for information and knowledge before you venture into the wilderness without a trail. For obvious reasons, you should fully understand what this entails before beginning your adventure.

Is the Shopping Better in Bryce Canyon National Park or Denali National Park?

Bryce Canyon National Park
Denali National Park

If you're looking to go shopping, Bryce Canyon National Park and Denali National Park both offer plenty of respectable spots.

If you're looking to go shopping, Bryce Canyon National Park has some nice offerings. There are shops and markets where you can pick up necessities. There are also a couple of gift shops.

Denali National Park has some good spots for those that want to go shopping. There are several park stores and shops in and near the park where you can pick up gifts, books, and souvenirs.

Is Bryce Canyon National Park or Denali National Park Better for Families?

Bryce Canyon National Park
Denali National Park

Bryce Canyon National Park is a great park for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Denali National Park is not as popular, but is still a nice park for its family-friendly activities.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Bryce Canyon National Park is very family-friendly. The kids will be as mesmerized as the adults with this spectacular park. There are great hikes for the whole family as well as horseback riding and ranger programs. For the best horseback riding experience, it's best to book your ride within the park. There are also private vendors that offer options outside the park.

Denali National Park is a family-friendly place to visit. Most people visit the park as part of a tour, so it's important to book a tour that is designed with families in mind. This will help ensure the kids stay entertained even during long bus rides.


Is Bryce Canyon National Park or Denali National Park Better for Couples?

Bryce Canyon National Park
Denali National Park

Both Bryce Canyon National Park and Denali National Park are very good destinations to visit as a couple.

Bryce Canyon National Park is a great park if you're traveling as a couple. The spectacular sunset views make this a truly romantic destination. The colors and setting are surreal and the hikes are spectacular. Couples will find a range of accommodation options that include large resort hotels just outside the park and camping within the park.

Denali National Park is a very popular place to visit for couples. Couples who enjoy outdoor adventures and stunning scenery will find the ultimate romance in this impressive park.

Is Bryce Canyon National Park or Denali National Park Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Bryce Canyon National Park
Denali National Park

For backpackers, both Bryce Canyon National Park and Denali National Park are fantastic places to visit.

With so many budget-friendly offerings, Bryce Canyon National Park is extremely popular for backpackers. For most visitors, this park is a short stop, but for those who want to experience it in depth, there are many backcountry hikes that let you enjoy a very different side to the park. You'll need a permit, but the backcountry lets you enjoy a peaceful solitude that you won't find in the more touristy areas.

Denali National Park is a very popular park to visit for backpackers. There are millions of acres in the park as well as campgrounds, hostels, and vast backcountry (which requires a permit).

Is Bryce Canyon National Park or Denali National Park Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Bryce Canyon National Park
Denali National Park

Bryce Canyon National Park and Denali National Park both offer respectable public transit to get you around.

Public transit is mostly limited in Bryce Canyon National Park. The Bryce Canyon Shuttle travels to the most popular overlooks. It doesn't operate during the winter months.

Public transit is generally limited in Denali National Park. There are free shuttle buses that leave from the entrance area, but many visitors organize a tour to get around.


Is Bryce Canyon National Park or Denali National Park a more walkable city?

Bryce Canyon National Park
Denali National Park

Bryce Canyon National Park is adequate for its high level of walkability. However, Denali National Park is not known for its ease of walking around.

Bryce Canyon National Park is generally not a very walkable park. Most of the trails require a car to access. If you're staying outside the park, you'll also want a private vehicle.

Denali National Park is not a walkable park. The park is vast and you need some form of transportation to get around, whether it's a private vehicle or a pre-arranged tour.

For even more information, also check out Is Bryce Canyon National Park Worth Visiting? and Is Denali National Park Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Denali National Park or Bryce Canyon National Park?

How long in Bryce Canyon National Park or Denali National Park?

It's fun to spend time in either Bryce Canyon National Park or Denali National Park. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Bryce Canyon National Park due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 2-5 days is a good amount of time for Bryce Canyon National Park, and 2-4 days is enough time in Denali National Park.

Families should spend more time in Bryce Canyon National Park than Denali National Park. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Bryce Canyon National Park, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Bryce Canyon National Park than Denali National Park if your budget allows for it. With a larger number of budget-friendly sights, good nightlife, and active things to do, anyone traveling on a budget would have a good time in Bryce Canyon National Park.


  • How many days in Bryce Canyon National Park or Denali National Park? Ideal Length of Stay
    Bryce Canyon National Park 2-5 
    Denali National Park 2-4

One day in Bryce Canyon National Park or Denali National Park?

Many travelers enjoy the when visiting the beautiful destination of Bryce Canyon National Park. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

In Denali National Park, many people enjoy the that this vast destination offers. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Bryce Canyon National Park or Denali National Park?

Bryce Canyon National Park is a fun place to experience. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this park has to offer. This park offers a variety of activities to choose from.

In Denali National Park, many people enjoy the that this beautiful destination offers. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything. Many people spend a weekend here. A weekend is often enough time to do most activities.


Five days in Bryce Canyon National Park or Denali National Park?

Many people visit Bryce Canyon National Park for five days. Many travelers enjoy the when visiting the beautiful park of Bryce Canyon National Park. Don't miss the hiking, as that's what most people do. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this park has to offer.

Many people enjoy the when visiting Denali National Park. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. This park offers something for everyone.

A week in Bryce Canyon National Park or Denali National Park?

The breathtaking destination of Bryce Canyon National Park offers . Hikers are also drawn to this area. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. Don't miss the hiking, as that's what most people do. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Travelers enjoy the when visiting the beautiful park of Denali National Park. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from New York City, The Best 2-Week Tours from New York City, The Best 2-Week Tours from Anchorage, and The Best 2-Week Tours from San Francisco.


Which place is cheaper, Denali National Park or Bryce Canyon National Park?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Bryce Canyon National Park is $135, while the average daily cost in Denali National Park is $218. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Bryce Canyon National Park and Denali National Park in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Bryce Canyon National Park $67
    Denali National Park $116
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Bryce Canyon National Park $134
    Denali National Park $232
Compare Hotels in Bryce Canyon National Park and Denali National Park

Looking for a hotel in Bryce Canyon National Park or Denali National Park? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Bryce Canyon National Park


Hotels in Denali National Park


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Bryce Canyon National Park Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Bryce Canyon National Park $56
    Denali National Park $76

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Denali National Park

Also for Denali National Park, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Shuttle Transfer: Anchorage ↔ Denali National Park: $150

Is it cheaper to fly into Bryce Canyon National Park or Denali National Park?

Prices for flights to both Denali National Park and Bryce Canyon National Park change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Bryce Canyon National Park $33
    Denali National Park $57

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Bryce Canyon National Park $30
    Denali National Park $30

Tours and Activities in Bryce Canyon National Park

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Bryce Canyon National Park.

  • Ruby's Horseback Adventures Utah 1.5 Hour Ride: $80
  • 8 Hours Cosmic Ashtray Experience in Escalante: $249
  • Bryce Canyon E-bike Tour : $95
  • Bryce Canyon National Park Self-Guided Driving Audio Tour: $17
  • Full-Day Private Scenic Byway 12 Audio Driving Tour : $8.99
  • Grand Staircase Full-Day Private Tour: $299
  • Grand Staircase-Escalante Full Day Small Group Tour : $299
  • Half Day Canyoneering Tour in Egypt Slot Canyon: $159
  • Hiking Experience in Bryce Canyon National Park: $120
  • Horseback Riding Experience through Red Canyon with a Guide: $105
  • Peekaboo, Spooky and Dry Fork Slot Canyon Tour: $139
  • Ruby's Horseback Adventures All Day Ride: $150

Tours and Activities in Denali National Park

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Denali National Park.

  • 2.5-Hour Denali Wilderness ATV Adventure Tour: $79
  • 3 Hour Naturalist Walking Tour in Denali National Park: $119
  • 4 Hour Off-Trail Wilderness Wonders Hiking Tour in Denali: $199
  • 5-Hour Mountain Hiking Tour in Denali: $169
  • Alaskan Back Country Side by Side ATV Adventure with Meal: $150
  • Authentical Denali Tour from Denali Park and Fairbanks: $260
  • Classic ATV Adventure with Back Country Dining: $150
  • Denali ATV Trailblazer 3.5 Hour Tour : $114
  • Denali National Park Walking Tour: $125
  • Denali Park Zipline Adventure: $165
  • Denali Self-Guided Jeep Adventure: $244
  • Half-Day Denali River Rafting Experience: $229

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Bryce Canyon National Park $6.78
    Denali National Park $12


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Bryce Canyon National Park and Denali National Park, we can see that Denali National Park is more expensive. And not only is Bryce Canyon National Park much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Bryce Canyon National Park would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Bryce Canyon National Park and be able to afford a more luxurious travel style by staying in nicer hotels, eating at more expensive restaurants, taking tours, and experiencing more activities. The same level of travel in Denali National Park would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Denali National Park than you might in Bryce Canyon National Park.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Bryce Canyon National Park Expensive? and Is Denali National Park Expensive?.


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