A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Columbia River Gorge vs. Grand Teton National Park for Hiking, Couples, Backpackers, and Food

Should you visit Columbia River Gorge or Grand Teton National Park?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Columbia River Gorge or Grand Teton National Park, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

Columbia River Gorge

Columbia River Gorge is a scenic, natural, and beautiful region. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Other reasons to visit include shopping, nightlife, and food.

Grand Teton National Park

Grand Teton National Park is a impressive, vast, and spectacular park. You'll find world class beauty here as well. It's also known for hiking.

Columbia River Gorge and Grand Teton National Park: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • 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
Pros
  • Nice resorts
  • 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
  • Less popular for food
  • Less popular for nightlife


Is there more to do in Columbia River Gorge or Grand Teton National Park?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Columbia River Gorge. Although Columbia River Gorge and Grand Teton National Park are both popular with visitors, Columbia River Gorge has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Columbia River Gorge is more popular for its food, nightlife, and shopping, while Grand Teton National Park is known for its resorts, hiking, and impressive beauty. Columbia River Gorge is popular for its hiking, biking, and high number of waterfalls. It is also home to Vista House at Crown Point. Grand Teton National Park is popular for its grand peaks and diverse wildlife.

How is Columbia River Gorge different from Grand Teton National Park?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Grand Teton National Park and Columbia River Gorge. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Columbia River Gorge or Grand Teton National Park?

Columbia River Gorge
Grand Teton National Park

Both Columbia River Gorge and Grand Teton National Park have decent landmarks and museums for visitors.

Columbia River Gorge offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. There are a couple of local museums in the area, but most visitors spend their time exploring the region's natural beauty.

While most people don't head to Grand Teton National Park specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. The Visitor Centers have exhibits and other informational sessions.


Is the Food Better in Columbia River Gorge or Grand Teton National Park? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Columbia River Gorge
Grand Teton National Park

Columbia River Gorge is a great region for its local flavors and cuisine. However, Grand Teton National Park is not known for its local cuisine and restaurants.

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in Columbia River Gorge. You'll find many great restaurants in the area that serve local dishes that make use of the region's agricultural scene.

You'll find the standard options when it comes to food in Grand Teton National Park. There are a number of restaurants and cafes around the park where you can enjoy a meal, often with a view.

Is Columbia River Gorge or Grand Teton National Park Better for Nightlife?

Columbia River Gorge
Grand Teton National Park

Columbia River Gorge is a popular place for nightlife. However, Grand Teton National Park is not known for nightlife and partying.

If you're looking for night time activities Columbia River Gorge has a few options to choose from. Local breweries, wineries, and bars offer a relaxing setting with a local vibe.

Most people don't head to Grand Teton National Park specifically for the nightlife scene, but you can find a few options. There's a lounge at Jackson Lake Lodge, but most visitors enjoy a relaxing night in.

Is Columbia River Gorge or Grand Teton National Park Better for Resorts?

Columbia River Gorge
Grand Teton National Park

Grand Teton National Park is a well-known place for its resorts. However, Columbia River Gorge is not a resort destination.

Grand Teton National Park is a popular resort destination that attracts visitors from everywhere. There are several impressive lodges within the park, as well as cabins and more rustic hotels.

Columbia River Gorge is not a resort destination.


Is Columbia River Gorge or Grand Teton National Park Better for Hiking?

Columbia River Gorge
Grand Teton National Park

Grand Teton National Park is a world-class destination for the nearby hiking options. Also, Columbia River Gorge is not as famous, but is still a good region to visit for its hiking trails.

Known for its hiking, Grand Teton National Park draws a crowd to experience the nature and the trails. Grand Teton National Park has more than 250 miles of trails that make their way through the mountains and around the rugged landscapes. There are hikes that range from short strolls to backcountry, mult-day trails and it's not uncommon to see wildlife.

Many visitors explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting Columbia River Gorge. There are world-class hikes that take you to iconic waterfalls, breathtaking viewpoints, and along scenic waterways.

Is the Shopping Better in Columbia River Gorge or Grand Teton National Park?

Columbia River Gorge
Grand Teton National Park

Columbia River Gorge is a popular place for shopping. However, Grand Teton National Park is not known for its shopping opportunities.

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Columbia River Gorge. Art galleries feature local artwork and artisan crafts. There are photography shops and other venues that sell items highlighting the region's beauty.

If you're looking to go shopping, Grand Teton National Park has some nice offerings. There are park stores where you can pick up souvenirs or gifts.

Is Columbia River Gorge or Grand Teton National Park Better for Families?

Columbia River Gorge
Grand Teton National Park

Columbia River Gorge and Grand Teton National Park are both very good destinations for the whole family.

Columbia River Gorge is a very family-friendly place to visit. Kids will love exploring the waterfalls and mountains as much as the adults do. There are kid-friendly hikes as well as bakeries and restaurants with many kid options.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Grand Teton National Park is very family-friendly. Kids will enjoy the hiking and wildlife spotting. There's also horseback riding and Ranger Programs that are designed for all ages.


Is Columbia River Gorge or Grand Teton National Park Better for Couples?

Columbia River Gorge
Grand Teton National Park

Grand Teton National Park is a world-class destination for romance. Also, Columbia River Gorge is not as famous, but is still a good region to visit for its romantic activities.

Grand Teton National Park has so much to offer for a romantic couple's vacation. With its stunning mountain views and scenic hikes, couples will be surrounded by romance. Many people visit the park for their honeymoon, or even for the wedding itself, and the setting couldn't be more spectacular.

Columbia River Gorge makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Couples will love the romantic hikes and waterfalls. There are also beautiful scenic viewpoints and wonderful restaurants.

Is Columbia River Gorge or Grand Teton National Park Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Columbia River Gorge
Grand Teton National Park

Grand Teton National Park is a world-class destination for backpackers. Also, Columbia River Gorge is not as famous, but is still a good region to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Grand Teton National Park is a mecca for backpackers and budget travelers. There are hostels, campgrounds, and backcountry hiking and camping that backpackers really enjoy.

Many backpackers visit Columbia River Gorge. You'll find hostels and campgrounds in the area that are perfect for backpackers and budget travelers.

Is Columbia River Gorge or Grand Teton National Park Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Columbia River Gorge
Grand Teton National Park

Columbia River Gorge is adequate for times when you don't have a car. However, Grand Teton National Park is not known for its public transit.

Public transit is mostly limited in Columbia River Gorge. There are some buses, but don't rely on them to efficiently explore.

Public transit is limited or non-existant in Grand Teton National Park. There's no public transportation within the park.


Is Columbia River Gorge or Grand Teton National Park a more walkable city?

Columbia River Gorge
Grand Teton National Park

Grand Teton National Park is a moderate park for its walkability. However, Columbia River Gorge is not a good region for its high level of walkability.

Grand Teton National Park is generally not very walkable. You'll need a car to reach most of the trail heads.

Columbia River Gorge is not a very walkable region. You really need a car to explore the area, but some visitors rely on a bike.

For even more information, also check out Is Columbia River Gorge Worth Visiting? and Is Grand Teton National Park Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Grand Teton National Park or Columbia River Gorge?

How long in Columbia River Gorge or Grand Teton National Park?

Both Columbia River Gorge and Grand Teton National Park have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Grand Teton National Park than in Columbia River Gorge. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Columbia River Gorge, and 3-7 days is enough time in Grand Teton National Park.

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

Couples should spend more time in Grand Teton National Park than Columbia River Gorge. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Grand Teton National Park that are perfect for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Grand Teton National Park than Columbia River Gorge 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 Grand Teton National Park.


  • How many days in Columbia River Gorge or Grand Teton National Park? Ideal Length of Stay
    Columbia River Gorge 2-3 
    Grand Teton National Park 3-7

One day in Columbia River Gorge or Grand Teton National Park?

Visitors enjoy the shopping and nightlife when visiting the scenic region of Columbia River Gorge. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

Many travelers enjoy the when visiting the beautiful destination of Grand Teton 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.

A weekend in Columbia River Gorge or Grand Teton National Park?

Visitors enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the destination of Columbia River Gorge. 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.

Grand Teton National Park is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. This park offers a variety of activities to choose from.


Five days in Columbia River Gorge or Grand Teton National Park?

Columbia River Gorge 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 visit Grand Teton National Park for five days. Many travelers enjoy the when visiting the beautiful park of Grand Teton 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.

A week in Columbia River Gorge or Grand Teton National Park?

Columbia River Gorge 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.

Many travelers enjoy the when visiting the spectacular destination of Grand Teton National Park. Many people spend one week here. 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. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Grand Teton National Park, one week is sufficent for most.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in United States of America, The Best Historical Tours in United States of America, The Best 10-Day Tours in United States of America, and The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Grand Teton National Park or Columbia River Gorge?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Columbia River Gorge is $179, while the average daily cost in Grand Teton National Park is $162. 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 Columbia River Gorge and Grand Teton National Park in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Columbia River Gorge $89
    Grand Teton National Park $79
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Columbia River Gorge $178
    Grand Teton National Park $158
Compare Hotels in Columbia River Gorge and Grand Teton National Park

Looking for a hotel in Columbia River Gorge or Grand Teton 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 Columbia River Gorge


Hotels in Grand Teton 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: Grand Teton National Park Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Columbia River Gorge $78
    Grand Teton National Park $52

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Grand Teton National Park

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

  • Private SUV Transfers to/ from Jackson Hole Airport JAC: $105
  • Private Luxury 4wd SUV To/From Transfer Jackson Hole Airport: $140

Is it cheaper to fly into Columbia River Gorge or Grand Teton National Park?

Prices for flights to both Grand Teton National Park and Columbia River Gorge 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
    Columbia River Gorge $46
    Grand Teton National Park $46

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Grand Teton National Park

For Grand Teton National Park, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Jackson Hole Chuckwagon Dinner: $75
  • Dinner Cookout Ride at Heart Six Ranch: $145

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Columbia River Gorge $20
    Grand Teton National Park $43

Tours and Activities in Grand Teton National Park

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

  • Snake River Scenic Float Private Guided Tour: $225

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Columbia River Gorge $12
    Grand Teton National Park $19


When comparing the travel costs between Columbia River Gorge and Grand Teton National Park, we can see that Columbia River Gorge is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in North America, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Columbia River Gorge Expensive? and Is Grand Teton National Park Expensive?.