A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Cumberland Island National Seashore vs. Adirondack Mountains for Hiking, Families, Couples, and Backpackers

Should you visit Cumberland Island National Seashore or Adirondack Mountains?

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

Should I visit Cumberland Island National Seashore or Adirondack Mountains? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Cumberland Island National Seashore

Cumberland Island National Seashore is a pristine, secluded, and undeveloped island. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the beaches and hiking.

Adirondack Mountains

Adirondack Mountains is a scenic, serene, and pristine region. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Other reasons to visit include hiking, shopping, and museums.

Cumberland Island National Seashore and Adirondack Mountains: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Very walkable
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less popular for food
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular for shopping
Pros
  • Popular for skiing
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • Good for hiking
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less walkable


Is there more to do in Cumberland Island National Seashore or Adirondack Mountains?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Adirondack Mountains. Although Cumberland Island National Seashore and Adirondack Mountains are popular destinations, Adirondack Mountains has more sights and attractions for tourists. Adirondack Mountains is very popular for its skiing, museums, food, nightlife, resorts, and shopping, while Cumberland Island National Seashore attracts visitors for its beaches and hiking. Adirondack Mountains is more touristy than Cumberland Island National Seashore and is popular for its miles of hiking trails, beautiful lakes, and pristine forests. It is also well known for Whiteface Mountain. Cumberland Island National Seashore is famous for its pristine and undeveloped beaches, miles of hiking trails, and wild horses.

How is Cumberland Island National Seashore different from Adirondack Mountains?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Adirondack Mountains and Cumberland Island National Seashore. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Is Cumberland Island National Seashore or Adirondack Mountains Better for Skiing?

Cumberland Island National Seashore
Adirondack Mountains

Adirondack Mountains is a popular place for skiing. However, Cumberland Island National Seashore is not a skiing destination.

Adirondack Mountains is a great destination for skiing with plenty areas to explore. There are a number of ski resorts in the area with some of the most popular being Whiteface, Titus Mountain, and Oak Mountain.

Cumberland Island National Seashore is not a skiing destination.


Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Cumberland Island National Seashore or Adirondack Mountains?

Cumberland Island National Seashore
Adirondack Mountains

Adirondack Mountains is a popular place for its historical sights. However, Cumberland Island National Seashore is not known for its sights and museums.

Adirondack Mountains is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. You can learn about local culture and heritage at any of the museums in the area. At the Adirondack Experience you can visit a vast campus that offers an open-air experience relating to the region's history. Other educational centers in the area include a wildlife center, several art museums, as well as battlefields, forts, and war museums.

Cumberland Island National Seashore offers a few options for museum-goers. There aren't any museums on the island, but on the mainland there's a visitor center as well as the Cumberland Island National Seashore Museum.

Is the Food Better in Cumberland Island National Seashore or Adirondack Mountains? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Cumberland Island National Seashore
Adirondack Mountains

Adirondack Mountains is a popular place for its local flavors and cuisine. However, Cumberland Island National Seashore is not known for its local cuisine and restaurants.

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around Adirondack Mountains. Steakhouses, pancake shops, and local diners all serve up fresh and local dishes. Many visitors like to pack a picnic that they can enjoy along a hiking trail, but if you're looking for a sit down option, there are also plenty of restaurants to choose from.

Most people don't head to Cumberland Island National Seashore for a culinary experience, but it does have restaurants to choose from. There are no restaurants on the island, so you need to pack any food that you might need before you arrive.

Is Cumberland Island National Seashore or Adirondack Mountains Better for Nightlife?

Cumberland Island National Seashore
Adirondack Mountains

Adirondack Mountains is a popular place for nightlife. However, Cumberland Island National Seashore is not known for nightlife and partying.

If you're looking for night time activities Adirondack Mountains has a few options to choose from. There are laid back bars and pubs in the area, but for the best nightlife scene, head to Lake Placid.

People don't go to Cumberland Island National Seashore for the nightlife. Stargazing is amazing on the island, but you're left to your own devices when it comes to evening entertainment options.


Is Cumberland Island National Seashore or Adirondack Mountains Better for Resorts?

Cumberland Island National Seashore
Adirondack Mountains

Adirondack Mountains is a great region for its luxury resorts. However, Cumberland Island National Seashore is not a resort destination.

Adirondack Mountains is known as a popular and fun resort destination. Lodges and inns fill with vacationers who enjoy the pools and scenic settings that many of the resorts offer. Many places have a summer camp atmosphere that feels both wholesome and adventurous.

Cumberland Island National Seashore is not a resort destination.

Is Cumberland Island National Seashore or Adirondack Mountains Better for Beaches?

Cumberland Island National Seashore
Adirondack Mountains

Cumberland Island National Seashore is an amazing island to visit for the beache. However, Adirondack Mountains is not a beach destination.

Travelers come from around the world to visit the beaches in Cumberland Island National Seashore. There are 17 miles of pristine beaches along the island. You'll also find wild horses and miles of hiking trails. Swimming is popular, but do take note that there are no lifeguards on the island.

Adirondack Mountains is not a beach destination.

Is Cumberland Island National Seashore or Adirondack Mountains Better for Hiking?

Cumberland Island National Seashore
Adirondack Mountains

Cumberland Island National Seashore is an amazing island to visit for the nearby hiking options. Also, Adirondack Mountains is not as famous, but is still a good region to visit for its hiking trails.

People visit Cumberland Island National Seashore specifically for its hiking, as the natural beauty is well-known. You'll find more than 50 miles of hiking trails on the island. They pass through a number of ecosystems such as wetlands, forests, and beaches. Most visitors come for the day and spend most of their time on the Southend of the island. This is where you'll find the highest concentration of hiking trails. Some of the most popular trails are Dungeness Roadways, River Trail, and Nightingale Trail.

Many visitors explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting Adirondack Mountains. Trails range from easy to challenging and each passes through beautiful and diverse landscapes. You can climb to scenic viewpoints or explore pristine forests. It's the perfect way to escape into nature for a bit.


Is the Shopping Better in Cumberland Island National Seashore or Adirondack Mountains?

Cumberland Island National Seashore
Adirondack Mountains

Adirondack Mountains is a popular place for shopping. However, Cumberland Island National Seashore is not known for its shopping opportunities.

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Adirondack Mountains. Many of the towns have a "general store" where you can pick up souvenirs or local items. There are also local artisan shops and even outlet malls in the area.

Cumberland Island National Seashore has some shopping areas for those that seek them out. There aren't any shops or stores on the island so plan accordingly.

Is Cumberland Island National Seashore or Adirondack Mountains Better for Families?

Cumberland Island National Seashore
Adirondack Mountains

Adirondack Mountains is a great region for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Cumberland Island National Seashore is not as popular, but is still a nice island for its family-friendly activities.

Adirondack Mountains is a very family-friendly destination. There area is filled with ropes courses, adventure parks, and hiking trails. There are nature centers with information programs for young ones. The kids will also be a enchanted by the waterfalls as the adults are.

Cumberland Island National Seashore is a family-friendly place to visit. In addition to the hiking trails, coastline, and wildlife, the island also has junior ranger programs and educational experiences for kids.

Is Cumberland Island National Seashore or Adirondack Mountains Better for Couples?

Cumberland Island National Seashore
Adirondack Mountains

With fun activities for couples, both Cumberland Island National Seashore and Adirondack Mountains make for a high quality place to visit.

Cumberland Island National Seashore is a great island if you're traveling as a couple. Couples will appreciate the pristine coastline, beautiful wildlife, and secluded hiking trails. Many people visit the island as a day trip, but it's also possible to stay at one of the island's campgrounds. For a truly romantic experience you could also stay at the Greyfield Inn.

Adirondack Mountains is a very popular place to visit for couples. There are many lodges and inns that are tucked away in the mountains and make for a romantic retreat. Couples will enjoy the hiking and beautiful views. Whether you spend your time cozied up by the fire or out on an adventure, this is a wonderful romantic destination.


Is Cumberland Island National Seashore or Adirondack Mountains Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Cumberland Island National Seashore
Adirondack Mountains

For backpackers, both Cumberland Island National Seashore and Adirondack Mountains are high quality places to visit.

Cumberland Island National Seashore is very popular with the backpacker crowd. Backpackers appreciate the secluded and pristine atmosphere. There are miles of hiking trails as well as campgrounds on the island for those who want to stay overnight.

Adirondack Mountains is a great island to visit for backpackers. There are a number of campgrounds and even backcountry camping in the region. The hiking trails and beautiful setting make this a fun place to explore.

Is Cumberland Island National Seashore or Adirondack Mountains Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Cumberland Island National Seashore
Adirondack Mountains

Cumberland Island National Seashore is a moderate island for its public transit. However, Adirondack Mountains is a mediocre region for times when you don't have a car.

Public transit is generally limited in Cumberland Island National Seashore. The only way to the island is by ferry. It leaves from the town of St. Marys and advanced reservations are recommended.

Public transit is quite limited in Adirondack Mountains. There is no real public transportation in the park.

Is Cumberland Island National Seashore or Adirondack Mountains a more walkable city?

Cumberland Island National Seashore
Adirondack Mountains

Cumberland Island National Seashore is a popular place for its high level of walkability. However, Adirondack Mountains is a mediocre region for its ease of walking around.

Cumberland Island National Seashore is a somewhat walkable place. There are many hikes on the island, but the whole island is 18 miles long, making it difficult to walk in one day. Many visitors spend their time near the campgrounds where there's the highest concentration of hiking trails. This area is known as Sea Camp.

Adirondack Mountains is not a very walkable island. While there are many hiking trails, to get around and access most destinations, you'll need a car.


For even more information, also check out Is Cumberland Island National Seashore Worth Visiting? and Is Adirondack Mountains Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Adirondack Mountains or Cumberland Island National Seashore?

How long in Cumberland Island National Seashore or Adirondack Mountains?

Both Cumberland Island National Seashore and Adirondack Mountains have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Adirondack Mountains than in Cumberland Island National Seashore. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Cumberland Island National Seashore, and 3-7 days is enough time in Adirondack Mountains.

Families should spend more time in Adirondack Mountains than Cumberland Island National Seashore. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Adirondack Mountains, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in Adirondack Mountains than Cumberland Island National Seashore. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Adirondack Mountains that are perfect for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Adirondack Mountains than Cumberland Island National Seashore 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 Adirondack Mountains.


  • How many days in Cumberland Island National Seashore or Adirondack Mountains? Ideal Length of Stay
    Cumberland Island National Seashore 1-3 
    Adirondack Mountains 3-7

One day in Cumberland Island National Seashore or Adirondack Mountains?

Many travelers enjoy the when visiting the beautiful destination of Cumberland Island National Seashore. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. One day is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Cumberland Island National Seashore has to offer.

In Adirondack Mountains, you'll find nightlife and food. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

A weekend in Cumberland Island National Seashore or Adirondack Mountains?

Cumberland Island National Seashore is a fun place to experience. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this island has to offer. This island offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Many people visit Adirondack Mountains for a weekend. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Five days in Cumberland Island National Seashore or Adirondack Mountains?

Many people visit Cumberland Island National Seashore for five days. You'll find around the beautiful island of Cumberland Island National Seashore. 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.

Adirondack Mountains is a popular place to visit. In Adirondack Mountains, you'll find shopping and museums. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. Five days is usually enough time to experience most activities.


A week in Cumberland Island National Seashore or Adirondack Mountains?

The untouched destination of Cumberland Island National Seashore offers . Hikers are also drawn to this area. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

In Adirondack Mountains, you'll find museums and skiing. This is a popular place to visit for one week. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. So, one week is just the right amount of time to spend here.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Historical Tours in United States of America, The Best 10-Day Tours in United States of America, The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in United States of America, and The Best 2-Week Tours in United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Adirondack Mountains or Cumberland Island National Seashore?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Cumberland Island National Seashore is $148, while the average daily cost in Adirondack Mountains is $166. 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 Cumberland Island National Seashore and Adirondack Mountains in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Cumberland Island National Seashore $75
    Adirondack Mountains $97
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Cumberland Island National Seashore $150
    Adirondack Mountains $194
Compare Hotels in Cumberland Island National Seashore and Adirondack Mountains

Looking for a hotel in Cumberland Island National Seashore or Adirondack Mountains? 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 Cumberland Island National Seashore


Hotels in Adirondack Mountains


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.
    Cumberland Island National Seashore $59
    Adirondack Mountains $33

Is it cheaper to fly into Cumberland Island National Seashore or Adirondack Mountains?

Prices for flights to both Adirondack Mountains and Cumberland Island National Seashore 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
    Cumberland Island National Seashore $38
    Adirondack Mountains $49

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Cumberland Island National Seashore $23
    Adirondack Mountains $17

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Cumberland Island National Seashore $25
    Adirondack Mountains $19


When comparing the travel costs between Cumberland Island National Seashore and Adirondack Mountains, we can see that Adirondack Mountains 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 Cumberland Island National Seashore Expensive? and Is Adirondack Mountains Expensive?.



When is the best time to visit Cumberland Island National Seashore or Adirondack Mountains?

Both places have a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. As both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Cumberland Island National Seashore or Adirondack Mountains in the Summer?

Both Adirondack Mountains and Cumberland Island National Seashore during the summer are popular places to visit. The summer months attract visitors to Cumberland Island National Seashore because of the beaches, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, the hiking and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Adirondack Mountains this time of year.

In the summer, Cumberland Island National Seashore is a little warmer than Adirondack Mountains. Typically, the summer temperatures in Cumberland Island National Seashore in July average around 82°F (28°C), and Adirondack Mountains averages at about 71°F (22°C).

In Adirondack Mountains, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Cumberland Island National Seashore. In the summer, Cumberland Island National Seashore often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Adirondack Mountains. Cumberland Island National Seashore gets 286 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Adirondack Mountains receives 285 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Cumberland Island National Seashore. Cumberland Island National Seashore usually gets more rain in July than Adirondack Mountains. Cumberland Island National Seashore gets 5.4 inches (137 mm) of rain, while Adirondack Mountains receives 3 inches (75 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Cumberland Island National Seashore 82°F (28°C) 
    Adirondack Mountains 71°F (22°C)

Should I visit Cumberland Island National Seashore or Adirondack Mountains in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Cumberland Island National Seashore and Adirondack Mountains. The hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Cumberland Island National Seashore this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Adirondack Mountains for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Cumberland Island National Seashore is generally much warmer than Adirondack Mountains. Daily temperatures in Cumberland Island National Seashore average around 70°F (21°C), and Adirondack Mountains fluctuates around 49°F (9°C).

In Cumberland Island National Seashore, it's very sunny this time of the year. Cumberland Island National Seashore usually receives more sunshine than Adirondack Mountains during autumn. Cumberland Island National Seashore gets 214 hours of sunny skies, while Adirondack Mountains receives 144 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Cumberland Island National Seashore usually receives around the same amount of rain as Adirondack Mountains. Cumberland Island National Seashore gets 2.9 inches (73 mm) of rain, while Adirondack Mountains receives 2.8 inches (72 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Cumberland Island National Seashore 70°F (21°C) 
    Adirondack Mountains 49°F (9°C)

Should I visit Cumberland Island National Seashore or Adirondack Mountains in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Cumberland Island National Seashore as well as Adirondack Mountains. Additionally, many visitors come to Adirondack Mountains in the winter for the skiing, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Adirondack Mountains can get quite cold in the winter. Cumberland Island National Seashore is much warmer than Adirondack Mountains in the winter. The daily temperature in Cumberland Island National Seashore averages around 53°F (12°C) in January, and Adirondack Mountains fluctuates around 18°F (-8°C).

In the winter, Cumberland Island National Seashore often gets more sunshine than Adirondack Mountains. Cumberland Island National Seashore gets 191 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Adirondack Mountains receives 124 hours of full sun.

Cumberland Island National Seashore usually gets more rain in January than Adirondack Mountains. Cumberland Island National Seashore gets 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain, while Adirondack Mountains receives 2.6 inches (65 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Cumberland Island National Seashore 53°F (12°C) 
    Adirondack Mountains 18°F (-8°C)

Should I visit Cumberland Island National Seashore or Adirondack Mountains in the Spring?

Both Adirondack Mountains and Cumberland Island National Seashore are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Cumberland Island National Seashore in the spring for the beaches and the natural beauty. Also, most visitors come to Adirondack Mountains for the natural beauty during these months.

In the spring, Cumberland Island National Seashore is much warmer than Adirondack Mountains. Typically, the spring temperatures in Cumberland Island National Seashore in April average around 68°F (20°C), and Adirondack Mountains averages at about 46°F (8°C).

It's quite sunny in Adirondack Mountains. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Cumberland Island National Seashore. Cumberland Island National Seashore usually receives more sunshine than Adirondack Mountains during spring. Cumberland Island National Seashore gets 285 hours of sunny skies, while Adirondack Mountains receives 210 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Cumberland Island National Seashore usually receives around the same amount of rain as Adirondack Mountains. Cumberland Island National Seashore gets 2.8 inches (72 mm) of rain, while Adirondack Mountains receives 3 inches (75 mm) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Cumberland Island National Seashore 68°F (20°C) 
    Adirondack Mountains 46°F (8°C)

Typical Weather for Adirondack Mountains and Cumberland Island National Seashore

Cumberland Island National Seashore Adirondack Mountains
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 53°F (12°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm) 18°F (-8°C) 2.6 inches (65 mm)
Feb 56°F (13°C) 3.9 inches (100 mm) 21°F (-6°C) 2.2 inches (57 mm)
Mar 62°F (17°C) 3.7 inches (93 mm) 33°F (1°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm)
Apr 68°F (20°C) 2.8 inches (72 mm) 46°F (8°C) 3 inches (75 mm)
May 74°F (24°C) 3.7 inches (93 mm) 57°F (14°C) 3.6 inches (91 mm)
Jun 80°F (27°C) 5.7 inches (146 mm) 66°F (19°C) 3.2 inches (81 mm)
Jul 82°F (28°C) 5.4 inches (137 mm) 71°F (22°C) 3 inches (75 mm)
Aug 82°F (28°C) 7.8 inches (199 mm) 69°F (20°C) 3.6 inches (92 mm)
Sep 79°F (26°C) 7.1 inches (180 mm) 60°F (16°C) 3.1 inches (79 mm)
Oct 70°F (21°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm) 49°F (9°C) 2.8 inches (72 mm)
Nov 62°F (17°C) 2.2 inches (55 mm) 38°F (4°C) 3.1 inches (78 mm)
Dec 56°F (13°C) 2.7 inches (69 mm) 25°F (-4°C) 2.9 inches (75 mm)