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

Should you visit Chimney Rock and Lake Lure or Joshua Tree 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 Joshua Tree 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 active, beautiful, and peaceful recreation area. It offers plenty of beauty for visitors. It's also popular because of the hiking.

Joshua Tree National Park

Joshua Tree National Park is a unique, fascinating, and adventurous national park. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. Other popular activities here include hiking.

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure and Joshua Tree National Park: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
Pros
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights


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

Travelers will usually find more to do in Chimney Rock and Lake Lure. Although Chimney Rock and Lake Lure and Joshua Tree National Park are popular destinations, Chimney Rock and Lake Lure has more sights and attractions for tourists. Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is very popular for its food, nightlife, and shopping, while Joshua Tree National Park attracts visitors for its hiking and impressive beauty. Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is famous for its beautiful views and fun outdoor activities. It is also well known for Lake Lure Beach Park. Joshua Tree National Park is famous for its unique vegetation and large boulders.

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

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Joshua Tree 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 Joshua Tree National Park?

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure
Joshua Tree National Park

For an educational experience, head to a museum or a notable sight in either Chimney Rock and Lake Lure or Joshua Tree National Park.

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.

While most people don't head to Joshua Tree National Park specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. There are a couple of museums in the area that display local art or cultural and historical items.


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

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure
Joshua Tree National Park

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is a decent place to visit for its restaurants. However, Joshua Tree National Park is lacking in good options for its restaurant scene.

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.

While Joshua Tree National Park is not famous for its food, you'll find what you need there. There aren't any restaurants inside the park, so you'll want to pack your own food and eat at one of the picnic areas.

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

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure
Joshua Tree National Park

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is a decent place to visit for its evening party scene. However, Joshua Tree National Park is lacking in good options for nightlife.

Those looking for nightlife will find a few places to hang out in Chimney Rock and Lake Lure. Most people head into nearby Asheville for the best nightlife.

Things get quiet in the evenings in Joshua Tree National Park. Stargazing and gathering around campfires are the most popular activities during the evening.

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

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure
Joshua Tree National Park

Joshua Tree National Park is an amazing national park to visit for its hiking experiences. Also, Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is still popular, but not quite as popular for hiking.

Around Joshua Tree National Park visitors will find world-class hiking trails. There are a wide range of hikes that include easy, moderate, and strenuous options. Some of the best hikes include Discovery Trail, Boy Scout Trail, and Black Rock Canyon Panorama Loop.

Many visitors go to Chimney Rock and Lake Lure for the hiking trails. 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.


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

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure
Joshua Tree National Park

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is a decent place to visit for its shopping areas. However, Joshua Tree National Park is lacking in good options for shopping.

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.

Joshua Tree National Park has some shopping areas for those that seek them out. There is a park store where you can pick up gifts or other items.

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

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure
Joshua Tree National Park

Both Chimney Rock and Lake Lure and Joshua Tree National Park are great to visit with kids.

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is known to be 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.

Joshua Tree National Park is a very family-friendly destination. With its giant boulders that kids can scramble on and its Dr. Seuss-like Joshua Trees, this really is nature's best playground. There are also kid-friendly hikes and Junior Ranger Programs that will both educate and entertain the kids.

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

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure
Joshua Tree National Park

Both Chimney Rock and Lake Lure and Joshua Tree National Park are great 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.

Joshua Tree National Park is a great recreation area if you're traveling as a couple. Couples who enjoy the outdoors, adventure sports like rock climbing, and hiking through spectacular landscapes will find this to be the ultimate romantic destination.


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

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure
Joshua Tree National Park

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

Joshua Tree National Park is a very popular national park to visit for backpackers. There are campgrounds and hiking trails that are popular with backpackers and nature enthusiasts.

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 Joshua Tree National Park Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure
Joshua Tree National Park

Neither Chimney Rock and Lake Lure or Joshua Tree National Park offer decent public transit.

Public transit is limited or non-existant in Chimney Rock and Lake Lure. There is limited public transit in the area.

Public transit is quite limited in Joshua Tree National Park. There's no reliable public transportation in the park.

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

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure
Joshua Tree National Park

Neither Chimney Rock and Lake Lure or Joshua Tree 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.

Joshua Tree National Park is not a very walkable recreation area. You need a car to truly explore the park.


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

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

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

It's fun to spend time in either Chimney Rock and Lake Lure or Joshua Tree National Park. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Joshua Tree National Park due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Chimney Rock and Lake Lure, and 2-4 days is enough time in Joshua Tree National Park.

Families should spend more time in Chimney Rock and Lake Lure than Joshua Tree 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.

Couples should spend more time in Chimney Rock and Lake Lure than Joshua Tree National Park. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Chimney Rock and Lake Lure that are great for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Joshua Tree 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 Joshua Tree National Park.


  • How many days in Chimney Rock and Lake Lure or Joshua Tree National Park? Ideal Length of Stay
    Chimney Rock and Lake Lure 1-3 
    Joshua Tree National Park 2-4

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

Visitors enjoy the when visiting the beautiful recreation area of Chimney Rock and Lake Lure. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. So, one day is just the right amount of time to spend here. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

In Joshua Tree National Park, many people enjoy the that this fascinating destination offers. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Lots of people come for the hiking. 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 Joshua Tree National Park?

Visitors enjoy the when visiting the destination of Chimney Rock and Lake Lure. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. Anyone can find something fun to do here. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend. Because of this, a weekend is usually enough time for a trip here.

In Joshua Tree 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 Joshua Tree National Park?

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything. It offers something for everyone.

Many people enjoy the when visiting Joshua Tree 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 national park offers something for everyone.


A week in Chimney Rock and Lake Lure or Joshua Tree National Park?

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is a popular choice for travelers. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Travelers enjoy the when visiting the beautiful national park of Joshua Tree 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. Lots of people come for the hiking. 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, Joshua Tree 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 Joshua Tree National Park is $152. 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 Joshua Tree National Park in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Chimney Rock and Lake Lure $117
    Joshua Tree National Park $87
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Chimney Rock and Lake Lure $234
    Joshua Tree National Park $174
Compare Hotels in Chimney Rock and Lake Lure and Joshua Tree National Park

Looking for a hotel in Chimney Rock and Lake Lure or Joshua Tree 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 Joshua Tree 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
    Joshua Tree National Park $47

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

Prices for flights to both Joshua Tree 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
    Joshua Tree National Park $35

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Chimney Rock and Lake Lure $34
    Joshua Tree National Park $27

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Chimney Rock and Lake Lure $21
    Joshua Tree National Park $4.93


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Chimney Rock and Lake Lure and Joshua Tree National Park, we can see that Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is more expensive. And not only is Joshua Tree National Park much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Joshua Tree National Park would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Joshua Tree 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 Joshua Tree 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 Joshua Tree National Park Expensive?.