A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Chimney Rock and Lake Lure vs. Glacier National Park for Backpackers, Hiking, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Chimney Rock and Lake Lure or Glacier National Park?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Chimney Rock and Lake Lure and Glacier National Park can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is a beautiful, peaceful, and active recreation area. It's a gorgeous place to visit. It's also known for hiking.

Glacier National Park

Glacier National Park is a gorgeous, stunning, and breathtaking park. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. Other popular activities here include hiking.

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure and Glacier National Park: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
Pros
  • Nice resorts
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to Going-to-the-Sun Road


Is there more to do in Chimney Rock and Lake Lure or Glacier National Park?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Glacier National Park than Chimney Rock and Lake Lure, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Glacier National Park is better known for its resorts and impressive beauty, while Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is more popular for its museums and nightlife. Glacier National Park is more touristy than Chimney Rock and Lake Lure and is known for its miles of hiking trails, impressive glaciers, and pristine lakes. Also, Glacier National Park is famous for Going-to-the-Sun Road. Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is well known for its beautiful views and fun outdoor activities.

How is Chimney Rock and Lake Lure different from Glacier National Park?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Glacier National Park and Chimney Rock and Lake Lure. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Chimney Rock and Lake Lure or Glacier National Park?

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure
Glacier National Park

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is a moderate recreation area for its sights and museums. However, Glacier National Park is a mediocre park for its museums and history.

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. There's a museum in Chimney Rock State Park, but most visitors spend their time taking advantage of the outdoor activities.

If you're looking to pass the time, head to a museum or historic sight in Glacier National Park. There are a couple of local museums in the area, but most people head straight for the park.


Is the Food Better in Chimney Rock and Lake Lure or Glacier National Park? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure
Glacier National Park

Picking the best cuisine and restaurants between Chimney Rock and Lake Lure and Glacier National Park can be difficult as they are each respectable in their own way.

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure may not make the list for most foodies, but you'll find what you need while you're in town. Within Chimney Rock Park there's a deli and a cafe. Nearby you'll also find casual eateries with pizza or classic American dishes.

Glacier National Park offers some easy restaurants to choose from. You'll find several restaurants and cafes both within and near the park, but this is an incredibly crowded park so you'll want to make reservations well in advance.

Is Chimney Rock and Lake Lure or Glacier National Park Better for Nightlife?

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure
Glacier National Park

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is a moderate recreation area for nightlife. However, Glacier National Park is a mediocre park for nightlife and partying.

Most people don't head to Chimney Rock and Lake Lure specifically for the nightlife scene, but you can find a few options. Most people head into nearby Asheville for the best nightlife.

Glacier National Park doesn't offer many options. People visit for the scenery, not the nightlife scene.

Is Chimney Rock and Lake Lure or Glacier National Park Better for Resorts?

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure
Glacier National Park

Glacier National Park is a park with good options for its resorts. However, Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is not a resort destination.

Glacier National Park has a few great resort options. There are several lodges, cabins, and inns near or within the park, but reservations are recommended well in advance.

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is not a resort destination.


Is Chimney Rock and Lake Lure or Glacier National Park Better for Hiking?

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure
Glacier National Park

Both Chimney Rock and Lake Lure and Glacier National Park are destinations which offer excellent hiking.

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around Chimney Rock and Lake Lure. One of the most popular trails in Chimney Rock State Park is The Exclamation Point Trail , which leads to many viewpoints. During the summer and fall seasons the trail can get very crowded. The obvious highlight in the park is Chimney Rock, which is a rock outcropping that offers spectacular views.

Many visitors go to Glacier National Park for the hiking trails. There are more than 700 miles of trails in the park. For the best experience, you should purchase a permit and explore the parks backcountry. Other popular trails include Highline Trail, Grinnell Glacier Trail, and Avalanche Lake Trail. It's best to start in the early morning as this is a popular park and the trails get busier as the day progresses.

Is the Shopping Better in Chimney Rock and Lake Lure or Glacier National Park?

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure
Glacier National Park

Shopping is a popular activity in both Glacier National Park and Chimney Rock and Lake Lure.

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure has some good spots for those that want to go shopping. You'll find the standard shopping centers in the area, but for the best shopping, head over to Asheville.

Glacier National Park is a good destination for shopping. There are park stores where you can pick up books, souvenirs, and gifts.

Is Chimney Rock and Lake Lure or Glacier National Park Better for Families?

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure
Glacier National Park

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is notable for its family-friendly activities. Also, Glacier National Park is not as famous, but is still a good park to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is a very family-friendly place to visit. There are plenty of outdoor activities in the area. Head to sliding rock for a fun afternoon. There's also tubing, kayaking, and river rafting nearby. Horseback riding is a fun way to explore a trail, or simply hiking on one of the many paths in the area. You'll also find ziplining and plenty of water activities at the lake.

Glacier National Park is a family-friendly recreation area. The landscapes are spectacular, but the crowds can be intense, which means it can be hard to find places to pull over and park during the peak seasons. Keep this in mind when you're traveling with kids because you may end up spending more time in the car than you'd expected.


Is Chimney Rock and Lake Lure or Glacier National Park Better for Couples?

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure
Glacier National Park

Both Chimney Rock and Lake Lure and Glacier National Park are excellent destinations for a couple's getaway.

Couples visit Chimney Rock and Lake Lure frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. There are romantic hotels as well as bed and breakfasts that make for a romantic retreat. Couples who enjoy beautiful outdoor settings and fun adventures will enjoy a weekend trip to the area. There are also local restaurants and a few wineries to explore.

Glacier National Park is a great recreation area if you're traveling as a couple. Drive along the scenic Going-to-the-Sun-Road and take in the truly breathtaking scenery. Many people consider this to be a top destination for a honeymoon and couples will appreciate the impressive hikes, dramatic waterfalls, and adventure-filled activities.

Is Chimney Rock and Lake Lure or Glacier National Park Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure
Glacier National Park

Glacier National Park is an amazing park to visit for backpackers. Also, Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.

Glacier National Park is a very popular park to visit for backpackers. The backcountry is truly pristine, and obtaining a Wilderness Permit and getting off-the-beaten-path will help you escape some of the crowds that the park is known for.

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is very popular with the backpacker crowd. There are several great campgrounds and plenty of hiking trails that make this a nice budget or backpacker getaway.

Is Chimney Rock and Lake Lure or Glacier National Park Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure
Glacier National Park

Glacier National Park is a park with a few options for its public transit. However, Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is a recreation area with minimal options for times when you don't have a car.

Public transit is generally limited in Glacier National Park. There's a free shuttle along Going-to-the-Sun Road that's available on a first-come, first-served basis, but expect crowds. The road can get quite congested during peak times. There are also tours that take you along the road so you can enjoy the scenery without having to focus on driving.

Public transit is quite limited in Chimney Rock and Lake Lure. There is limited public transit in the area.


Is Chimney Rock and Lake Lure or Glacier National Park a more walkable city?

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure
Glacier National Park

Neither Chimney Rock and Lake Lure or Glacier National Park are walkable places.

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is not a walkable recreation area. The trails and parks in the region are spread out and require a car to access.

Glacier National Park is not a very walkable recreation area. You'll need a car to get almost anywhere in the park.

For even more information, also check out Is Chimney Rock and Lake Lure Worth Visiting? and Is Glacier National Park Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Glacier National Park or Chimney Rock and Lake Lure?

How long in Chimney Rock and Lake Lure or Glacier National Park?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Chimney Rock and Lake Lure and Glacier National Park. You can spend similar amounts of time exploring each one. In general, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Chimney Rock and Lake Lure, and 2-3 days is enough time in Glacier National Park.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Glacier National Park than Chimney Rock and Lake Lure 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 Glacier National Park.


  • How many days in Chimney Rock and Lake Lure or Glacier National Park? Ideal Length of Stay
    Chimney Rock and Lake Lure 1-3 
    Glacier National Park 2-3

One day in Chimney Rock and Lake Lure or Glacier National Park?

In Chimney Rock and Lake Lure, you'll find . Hikers are also drawn to this area. Anyone can find something fun to do here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Chimney Rock and Lake Lure, one day is sufficent for most.

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

A weekend in Chimney Rock and Lake Lure or Glacier National Park?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Chimney Rock and Lake Lure. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this recreation area. It offers something for everyone.

In Glacier National Park, many people enjoy the that this beautiful destination offers. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. 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 Chimney Rock and Lake Lure or Glacier National Park?

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is a fun place to experience. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Many people enjoy the when visiting Glacier National Park. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. 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 Chimney Rock and Lake Lure or Glacier National Park?

You'll find around the active destination of Chimney Rock and Lake Lure. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Travelers enjoy the when visiting the beautiful park of Glacier National Park. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Family-Friendly Tours to United States of America, The Best Wildlife Tours to United States of America, The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in United States of America, and The Best Historical Tours in United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Glacier National Park or Chimney Rock and Lake Lure?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is $196, while the average daily cost in Glacier National Park is $127. 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 Chimney Rock and Lake Lure and Glacier National Park in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Chimney Rock and Lake Lure $117
    Glacier National Park $56
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Chimney Rock and Lake Lure $234
    Glacier National Park $112
Compare Hotels in Chimney Rock and Lake Lure and Glacier National Park

Looking for a hotel in Chimney Rock and Lake Lure or Glacier 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 Chimney Rock and Lake Lure


Hotels in Glacier 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.


Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Chimney Rock and Lake Lure $35
    Glacier National Park $69

Is it cheaper to fly into Chimney Rock and Lake Lure or Glacier National Park?

Prices for flights to both Glacier National Park and Chimney Rock and Lake Lure 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
    Chimney Rock and Lake Lure $52
    Glacier National Park $28

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Glacier National Park

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Glacier National Park.

  • Half Day Whitewater Rafting with Riverside Dinner: $113

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Chimney Rock and Lake Lure $34
    Glacier National Park $34

Tours and Activities in Glacier National Park

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Glacier National Park are as follows:

  • Self-Guided Audio Driving Tour in Glacier National Park: $12
  • Glacier National Park Self-Guided Driving Audio Tour: $17
  • Self Guided Bike Tour in Glacier National Park : $65
  • Half-Day Glacier National Park Whitewater Rafting Adventure: $87
  • Full Day Glacier National Park Whitewater Rafting Adventure - With Lunch!: $152
  • Full Day Whitewater Adventure Trip with Included Lunch: $157
  • Half Day Bike and Hike Tour in around Whitefish: $175
  • Driving Tour in Glacier National Park: $220
  • Combo Tour: Driving and Snowshoe Trek of Glacier National Park: $220

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Chimney Rock and Lake Lure $21
    Glacier National Park $8.41


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Chimney Rock and Lake Lure and Glacier National Park, we can see that Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is more expensive. And not only is Glacier National Park much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Glacier National Park would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Glacier 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 Chimney Rock and Lake Lure would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Chimney Rock and Lake Lure than you might in Glacier National Park.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Chimney Rock and Lake Lure Expensive? and Is Glacier National Park Expensive?.