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

Should you visit Columbia River Gorge or Olympic 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 Olympic 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 natural, beautiful, and scenic region. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the nightlife, food, and hiking.

Olympic National Park

Olympic National Park is a vast, pristine, and stunning park. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for food, hiking, and museums.

Columbia River Gorge and Olympic National Park: Pros and Cons

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

Travelers will usually find more to do in Columbia River Gorge. Although Columbia River Gorge and Olympic National Park are popular destinations, Columbia River Gorge has more sights and attractions for tourists. Columbia River Gorge is very popular for its food, nightlife, and shopping, while Olympic National Park attracts visitors for its museums, resorts, and hiking. Columbia River Gorge is famous for its hiking, biking, and high number of waterfalls. It is also well known for Vista House at Crown Point. Olympic National Park is famous for its diverse landscapes and its frequent rainfall.

How is Columbia River Gorge different from Olympic National Park?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Olympic National Park is a nice place to visit for its sights and museums. However, Columbia River Gorge is not a good region for its museums and history.

Olympic National Park is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. There are several museums near the park that highlight the region's history, culture, and geology. These include the Makah Cultural & Research Center Museum, Forks Timber Museum, Sequim Museum, and Squaxin Island Museum, Library and Research Center.

While most people don't head to Columbia River Gorge specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. There are a couple of local museums in the area, but most visitors spend their time exploring the region's natural beauty.

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

Columbia River Gorge is a well-known place for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Olympic National Park is not as famous, but is still a good park to visit for its restaurants.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit 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.

Olympic National Park is becoming an appealing option for foodies. Most of the lodges have restaurants within the park, but they can be overpriced. There are also restaurants just outside of the park's border.

Is Columbia River Gorge or Olympic National Park Better for Nightlife?

Columbia River Gorge is a popular place for nightlife and partying. However, Olympic National Park is not a good park for its evening party scene.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Columbia River Gorge. Local breweries, wineries, and bars offer a relaxing setting with a local vibe.

Olympic National Park doesn't offer many options. You can enjoy a peaceful natural setting after the sun sets.

Is Columbia River Gorge or Olympic National Park Better for Resorts?

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

Olympic National Park is a popular resort destination that attracts visitors from everywhere. There are several lodges within the park as well as cabins and inns. Some have a historic atmosphere while others are more rustic. It's best to book well in advance, particularly if you're visiting during the peak summer months.

Columbia River Gorge is not a resort destination.

Is Columbia River Gorge or Olympic National Park Better for Hiking?

Olympic 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, Olympic National Park draws a crowd to experience the nature and the trails. Hiking trails will take you through the diverse range of landscapes. There are mountain climbs, coastal trails, and routes that wander through old growth forests. You'll also find a mix of day hikes and backcountry wilderness hikes. Mount Storm King, Marymere Falls, and the High Divide are favorite hikes in the park, but there are countless others.

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 Olympic National Park?

Columbia River Gorge is a popular place for its shopping opportunities. However, Olympic National Park is not a good park for its shopping areas.

Columbia River Gorge offers some nice shopping areas. Art galleries feature local artwork and artisan crafts. There are photography shops and other venues that sell items highlighting the region's beauty.

Olympic National Park has some good spots for those that want to go shopping. There's a park store where you can pick up books, informational resources, and souvenirs.

Is Columbia River Gorge or Olympic National Park Better for Families?

Columbia River Gorge and Olympic 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, Olympic National Park is very family-friendly. Kids will enjoy exploring the tidal pools and running around the beach. It's also fun to lose yourself in the old growth rainforests and spend some time kayaking or canoeing at Lake Crescent.

Is Columbia River Gorge or Olympic National Park Better for Couples?

Columbia River Gorge and Olympic National Park are both very good to visit as a couple.

Columbia River Gorge is a very popular place to visit for couples. Couples will love the romantic hikes and waterfalls. There are also beautiful scenic viewpoints and wonderful restaurants.

Olympic National Park makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Couples who enjoy hiking, camping, and natural beauty will love exploring this park together. There are a diversity of ecosystems and landscapes where you can enjoy a couples retreat together.

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

Olympic 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.

Olympic National Park is a mecca for backpackers and budget travelers. There are many beautiful backcountry destinations that let you experience this park in depth. Make sure you purchase a permit in advance.

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

Both Columbia River Gorge and Olympic National Park offer reasonable public transit options.

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

Public transit is mostly limited in Olympic National Park. There are buses and ferries to the park, but the park is large and requires a private vehicle to fully access it.

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

Neither Columbia River Gorge or Olympic National Park are walkable places.

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

Olympic National Park is not a very walkable region. The park is large and you'll need a car to reach most of the trailheads.

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

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

How long in Columbia River Gorge or Olympic National Park?

In either Columbia River Gorge or Olympic National Park, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Olympic National Park than Columbia River Gorge because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Columbia River Gorge, and 2-5 days is enough time in Olympic National Park.

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

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

One day in Columbia River Gorge or Olympic National Park?

In Columbia River Gorge, you'll find food and shopping. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

Many travelers enjoy the museums and food when visiting the beautiful destination of Olympic 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 Olympic National Park?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Columbia River Gorge. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this region. It offers something for everyone.

Olympic National Park is a fun place to experience. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. 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.

Five days in Columbia River Gorge or Olympic National Park?

Columbia River Gorge 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 visit Olympic National Park for five days. Many travelers enjoy the museums and food when visiting the beautiful park of Olympic 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 Olympic National Park?

You'll find food and shopping around the beautiful destination of Columbia River Gorge. 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.

The stunning destination of Olympic National Park offers food and museums. 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.

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.

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

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 Olympic National Park Expensive?.

When is the best time to visit Columbia River Gorge or Olympic National Park?

Both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. And since both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Columbia River Gorge or Olympic National Park in the Summer?

Both Olympic National Park and Columbia River Gorge are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Columbia River Gorge in the summer for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Olympic National Park for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In the summer, Columbia River Gorge is a little warmer than Olympic National Park. Typically, the summer temperatures in Columbia River Gorge in July average around 68°F (20°C), and Olympic National Park averages at about 60°F (15°C).

It's quite sunny in Olympic National Park. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Columbia River Gorge. Columbia River Gorge usually receives more sunshine than Olympic National Park during summer. Columbia River Gorge gets 338 hours of sunny skies, while Olympic National Park receives 210 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Columbia River Gorge usually receives less rain than Olympic National Park. Columbia River Gorge gets 0.7 inches (18 mm) of rain, while Olympic National Park receives 2.8 inches (70 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Columbia River Gorge or Olympic National Park in the Autumn?

Both Olympic National Park and Columbia River Gorge during the autumn are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Columbia River Gorge for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Olympic National Park because of the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Columbia River Gorge is generally a little warmer than Olympic National Park. Daily temperatures in Columbia River Gorge average around 55°F (13°C), and Olympic National Park fluctuates around 51°F (10°C).

In the autumn, Columbia River Gorge often gets more sunshine than Olympic National Park. Columbia River Gorge gets 155 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Olympic National Park receives 113 hours of full sun.

Olympic National Park gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Columbia River Gorge usually gets less rain in October than Olympic National Park. Columbia River Gorge gets 2.6 inches (67 mm) of rain, while Olympic National Park receives 10.4 inches (263 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Columbia River Gorge or Olympic National Park in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Columbia River Gorge and Olympic National Park. The winter months attract visitors to Columbia River Gorge because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Olympic National Park this time of year.

It's quite cold in Olympic National Park in the winter. The weather in Columbia River Gorge can be very cold. Columbia River Gorge is cooler than Olympic National Park in the winter. The daily temperature in Columbia River Gorge averages around 40°F (4°C) in January, and Olympic National Park fluctuates around 41°F (5°C).

Columbia River Gorge usually receives more sunshine than Olympic National Park during winter. Columbia River Gorge gets 86 hours of sunny skies, while Olympic National Park receives 56 hours of full sun in the winter.

Olympic National Park receives a lot of rain in the winter. Columbia River Gorge gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In January, Columbia River Gorge usually receives less rain than Olympic National Park. Columbia River Gorge gets 5.2 inches (132 mm) of rain, while Olympic National Park receives 13.7 inches (349 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Columbia River Gorge or Olympic National Park in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Columbia River Gorge as well as Olympic National Park. The natural beauty are the main draw to Columbia River Gorge this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Olympic National Park for the natural beauty.

In the spring, Columbia River Gorge is a little warmer than Olympic National Park. Typically, the spring temperatures in Columbia River Gorge in April average around 51°F (11°C), and Olympic National Park averages at about 47°F (8°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Columbia River Gorge this time of the year. In the spring, Columbia River Gorge often gets more sunshine than Olympic National Park. Columbia River Gorge gets 231 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Olympic National Park receives 148 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Olympic National Park. Columbia River Gorge usually gets less rain in April than Olympic National Park. Columbia River Gorge gets 2.4 inches (61 mm) of rain, while Olympic National Park receives 7.4 inches (189 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Olympic National Park and Columbia River Gorge