A Travel Price Comparison for California Death Valley National Park vs. Sequoia National Park for Hiking, Backpackers, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Death Valley National Park or Sequoia National Park?

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

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Death Valley National Park and Sequoia National Park can help you decide which place is right for you.

Death Valley National Park

Death Valley National Park is a vast, dramatic, and striking national park. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Other reasons to visit include hiking.

Sequoia National Park

Sequoia National Park is a breathtaking, surreal, and impressive national park. You'll find world class beauty here as well. Other popular activities here include hiking.

Death Valley National Park and Sequoia National Park: Pros and Cons

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


Is there more to do in Death Valley National Park or Sequoia National Park?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Sequoia National Park than Death Valley National Park, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Sequoia National Park is more touristy than Death Valley National Park and is popular for its spectacularly large sequoia trees and its dramatic beauty. Also, Sequoia National Park is famous for the General Sherman tree. Death Valley National Park is well known for being the hottest, driest, and lowest national park in the U.S.

How is Death Valley National Park different from Sequoia National Park?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Sequoia National Park and Death Valley National Park. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Death Valley National Park or Sequoia National Park?

Death Valley National Park
Sequoia National Park

For an educational experience, head to a museum or a notable sight in either Death Valley National Park or Sequoia National Park.

Death Valley National Park offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. There are ghost towns and visitor centers with informational exhibits, but visitors spend most of their time exploring the outdoor environment.

While most people don't head to Sequoia National Park specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. The visitor centers have informational exhibits and there's also The Giant Forest Museum.


Is the Food Better in Death Valley National Park or Sequoia National Park? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Death Valley National Park
Sequoia National Park

There are opportunities to sample the local cuisine at respectable restaurants in both Death Valley National Park and Sequoia National Park.

Death Valley National Park may not make the list for most foodies, but you'll find what you need while you're in town. There are restaurants at Furnace Creek, Stovepipe Wells, and Panamint Springs, but most visitors prefer to bring their own food so that they can enjoy picnicking in a beautiful setting.

Sequoia National Park offers some easy restaurants to choose from. There are restaurants, cafes, and markets in the park where you can pick up food. Some options are only open seasonally so check in advance to make sure you understand the options.

Is Death Valley National Park or Sequoia National Park Better for Nightlife?

Death Valley National Park
Sequoia National Park

Neither Death Valley National Park or Sequoia National Park offer decent nightlife.

People don't go to Death Valley National Park for the nightlife. Beyond stargazing and relaxing around a campfire, there is no real nightlife in the area.

Sequoia National Park doesn't offer many options. Nightlife is limited to stargazing and campfire chats.

Is Death Valley National Park or Sequoia National Park Better for Resorts?

Death Valley National Park
Sequoia National Park

Luxury resorts are fairly comparable in Death Valley National Park and Sequoia National Park.

You might not think of Death Valley National Park as a resort destination, but it has a few places. There are historical inns and lodges in and around the park. The privately owned Inn at Death Valley is a popular option in Furnace Creek. If you stay outside the park, you can expect long drives to get most places.

Sequoia National Park has a few resort options worth checking out. Wuksachi Lodge is the signature hotel option in the park.


Is Death Valley National Park or Sequoia National Park Better for Hiking?

Death Valley National Park
Sequoia National Park

Sequoia National Park is renowned for the nearby hiking options. Also, Death Valley National Park is not as famous, but is still a good national park to visit for its hiking trails.

Many people visit Sequoia National Park specifically for its hiking. Hiking options range from day hiking to overnight backpacking. The hikes can be easy and accessible or more challenging, but whatever your style, you're sure to be amazed by this spectacular setting. The trails wander through high reaching trees or along steep canyons. Some of the most popular trails include Big Trees Trail, Crescent Meadow Loop Trail, Congress Trail, Tokopah Falls Trail, Hazelwood Nature Trail, Alta Peak Trail, and the High Sierra Trail to Bearpaw Meadow.

Many visitors explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting Death Valley National Park. Hikes will take you past desert landscapes, through canyons, and along sand dunes. The views are spectacular and the setting is other-worldly. Hiking is best between the months of November and March, as temperatures can be high other times of the year, particularly during the summer months.

Is the Shopping Better in Death Valley National Park or Sequoia National Park?

Death Valley National Park
Sequoia National Park

Sequoia National Park is a moderate national park for its shopping areas. However, Death Valley National Park is not a good national park for shopping.

Sequoia National Park has some good spots for those that want to go shopping. There are markets within the park.

Shopping in Death Valley National Park can be found for those interested. There are a couple of general stores where you can pick up items that you may need.

Is Death Valley National Park or Sequoia National Park Better for Families?

Death Valley National Park
Sequoia National Park

You'll find superb kid-friendly activities in either Death Valley National Park or Sequoia National Park.

Death Valley National Park is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. Kids will love hiking and exploring the vast desert. There are also ghost towns and abandoned mines that will fascinate kids and adults alike. Junior programs, operated by the National Park Service, also offer interesting and educational programming for kids.

Sequoia National Park is a very family-friendly destination. Kids will enjoy driving through the tunnel log and gazing up at the impressive trees. It feels like a fairytale world where even adults can run around and embrace their inner child. There are also plenty of kid-friendly hikes.


Is Death Valley National Park or Sequoia National Park Better for Couples?

Death Valley National Park
Sequoia National Park

Both Death Valley National Park and Sequoia National Park are superb destinations to visit as a couple.

Death Valley National Park is a very popular place to visit for couples. The stunning desert landscape will take your breathe away, particularly during sunrise and sunset, when the colors are dramatic and striking. In the evening, the sky fills with stars and couples can enjoy a bit of stargazing.

Sequoia National Park makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Couples who enjoy the outdoors, hiking, exploring, and camping will embrace the opportunity to visit the spectacular national park. There are beautiful romantic hikes and sunset views that will take your breath away.

Is Death Valley National Park or Sequoia National Park Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Death Valley National Park
Sequoia National Park

Both Death Valley National Park and Sequoia National Park are amazing destinations for backpackers.

Death Valley National Park is a very popular national park to visit for backpackers. Backpackers will enjoy hiking and camping in a unique desert environment. There are several campgrounds in the area that range from primitive to developed.

Many backpackers frequent Sequoia National Park. Backpacking through the park will let you experience places that most visitors don't make it to. This is the best way to truly enjoy the nature, serenity, and beauty of the park.

Is Death Valley National Park or Sequoia National Park Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Death Valley National Park
Sequoia National Park

Sequoia National Park is a moderate national park for its public transit. However, Death Valley National Park is not a good national park for times when you don't have a car.

Public transit is generally limited in Sequoia National Park. There is a shuttle service, but it's limited to the summer months and other peak travel times.

Public transit is quite limited in Death Valley National Park. There is no public transportation within the park.


Is Death Valley National Park or Sequoia National Park a more walkable city?

Death Valley National Park
Sequoia National Park

Sequoia National Park is a moderate national park for its ease of walking around. However, Death Valley National Park is not a good national park for its walkability.

Sequoia National Park is generally not very walkable. While there are countless hiking trails, you'll need a car to efficiently get around the park.

Death Valley National Park is not a very walkable national park. This is a huge national park that requires a car to get around.

For even more information, also check out Is Death Valley National Park Worth Visiting? and Is Sequoia National Park Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Sequoia National Park or Death Valley National Park?

How long in Death Valley National Park or Sequoia National Park?

Both Death Valley National Park and Sequoia 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 Sequoia National Park than in Death Valley National Park. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Death Valley National Park, and 2-7 days is enough time in Sequoia National Park.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Sequoia National Park than Death Valley National Park 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 Sequoia National Park.


  • How many days in Death Valley National Park or Sequoia National Park? Ideal Length of Stay
    Death Valley National Park 2-4 
    Sequoia National Park 2-7

One day in Death Valley National Park or Sequoia National Park?

In Death Valley National Park, you'll find . 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.

In Sequoia National Park, many people enjoy the that this breathtaking 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 Death Valley National Park or Sequoia National Park?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Death Valley National Park. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this national park. It offers something for everyone.

In Sequoia 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 Death Valley National Park or Sequoia National Park?

Death Valley National Park 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.

In Sequoia National Park, many people enjoy the that this surreal destination offers. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. This is a popular place to visit for five days.Five days is often enough time to do most activities. This national park offers something for everyone.

A week in Death Valley National Park or Sequoia National Park?

You'll find around the dramatic destination of Death Valley National Park. 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.

In Sequoia National Park, many people enjoy the that this beautiful national park offers. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. If you have one week, this national park makes for a great vacation. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. Lots of people come for the hiking. Because of this, one week is usually enough time for a trip here.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Bicycle Tours in United States of America, Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in United States of America, The Best Coach Bus Tours in United States of America, and The Best Adventure Tours to United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Sequoia National Park or Death Valley National Park?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Death Valley National Park is $87, while the average daily cost in Sequoia National Park is $130. 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 Death Valley National Park and Sequoia National Park in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Death Valley National Park $37
    Sequoia National Park $64
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Death Valley National Park $74
    Sequoia National Park $128
Compare Hotels in Death Valley National Park and Sequoia National Park

Looking for a hotel in Death Valley National Park or Sequoia 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 Death Valley National Park


Hotels in Sequoia 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.
    Death Valley National Park $41
    Sequoia National Park $56

Is it cheaper to fly into Death Valley National Park or Sequoia National Park?

Prices for flights to both Sequoia National Park and Death Valley National Park 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
    Death Valley National Park $20
    Sequoia National Park $31

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Death Valley National Park $36
    Sequoia National Park $31

Tours and Activities in Death Valley National Park

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

  • Death Valley Self Guided Audio Driving Tour: $15

Tours and Activities in Sequoia National Park

For Sequoia National Park, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • Sequoia & Kings Canyon National Park Self-Driving Audio Tour: $17
  • Semi Private Sequoia National Park Tour with lunch.: $299
  • Sequoia National Park Adventure from Tulare: $299

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Death Valley National Park $8.57
    Sequoia National Park $7.84


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

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Death Valley National Park Expensive? and Is Sequoia National Park Expensive?.


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