A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Gatlinburg vs. Jasper National Park for Hiking, Backpackers, Couples, and Attractions

Should you visit Gatlinburg or Jasper 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 Gatlinburg and Jasper National Park can help you decide which place is right for you.

Gatlinburg

Gatlinburg is a flashy, high energy, and wild city. It's also known for museums, skiing, and nightlife. See Gatlinburg travel costs.

Jasper National Park

Jasper National Park is a stunning, breathtaking, and adventure-filled national park. Many visitors also come to Jasper National Park because of it's amazing beauty. Other reasons to visit include hiking. See Jasper National Park travel costs.

Gatlinburg and Jasper National Park: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Gatlinburg or Jasper National Park?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Gatlinburg. Although Gatlinburg and Jasper National Park are both popular with visitors, Gatlinburg has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Gatlinburg is more popular for its skiing, museums and attractions, nightlife, resorts, and shopping, while Jasper National Park is known for its hiking and impressive beauty. Gatlinburg is more touristy than Jasper National Park and is popular for its countless entertainment venues as well as its easy access to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. It is also home to the Gatlinburg Strip. Jasper National Park is popular for its wildlife and pristine natural beauty

How is Gatlinburg different from Jasper National Park?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Gatlinburg or Jasper National Park Better for Skiing?

Gatlinburg is a nice place to visit for winter skiing. However, Jasper National Park is not a skiing destination.

Gatlinburg is a great destination for skiing with plenty areas to explore. Ober Gatlinburg is the only ski area in Tennessee. The winter activities open after Thanksgiving and include snow skiing, snowboarding, ice skating, and tubing.

Jasper National Park is not a skiing destination.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Gatlinburg or Jasper National Park?

Gatlinburg is a nice place to visit for its museums and landmarks. However, Jasper National Park is not particularly known for its historical sights.

Gatlinburg is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. Museums range from gaudy to quirky. Check out the Hollywood Star Cars Museum, the Salt and Pepper Shaker Museum, Ripley's Believe It or Not, the Hollywood Wax Museum, and the Titanic Museum. There's also the Gatlinburg Space Needle and the Gatlinburg SkyBridge.

While most people don't head to Jasper National Park specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. You can learn about the area with a visit to the Jasper Yellowhead Museum & Archive.

Is the Food Better in Gatlinburg or Jasper National Park? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

There are opportunities to sample the local cuisine at decent restaurants in both Gatlinburg and Jasper National Park.

Gatlinburg offers some easy restaurants to choose from. Staying true to form, restaurants in Gatlinburg cater to the tourist scene and serve up burgers, pizza, pancakes, and other classic favorites.

You'll find the standard options when it comes to food in Jasper National Park. There are several decent restaurants and bistros near or in the park. Many are connected to lodges and some offer great views.

Is Gatlinburg or Jasper National Park Better for Nightlife?

Gatlinburg is terrific for nightlife. However, Jasper National Park is not particularly known for nightlife and partying.

Gatlinburg is a must-see party destination. Live music, theatrical shows, as well as bars and clubs that stay open late into the night give this town a huge party atmosphere. During the peak season the town is packed with people looking to have a good time and you'll find tons of things to do by simply walking down the main drag.

The nightlife scene is quiet in Jasper National Park Stargazing and sitting by an open fire is the best way to spend the evening.

Is Gatlinburg or Jasper National Park Better for Resorts?

Gatlinburg is well known for its resorts. However, Jasper National Park is not a resort destination.

Gatlinburg is a popular resort destination that attracts visitors from everywhere. There are plenty of resorts and vacation clubs near town. Many have pools, waterslides, or hot tubs.

Jasper National Park is not a resort destination.

Is Gatlinburg or Jasper National Park Better for Hiking?

Jasper National Park is renowned for hiking. Also, Gatlinburg is not as popular, but is still a nice city for the nearby hiking options.

Many people visit Jasper National Park specifically for its hiking. Hiking is a truly world class experience in this large park. There are miles of trails, both backcountry and more accessible, that allow access to the park's stunning beauty. Whether you're looking for a shorter family-friendly hike, or planning a multi-week backcountry adventure, this park has it all.

Gatlinburg is a popular spot for hiking. You'll need to head out of town into the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, but once you're there the hiking is impressive. There are waterfall hikes, trails to viewpoints, and loops that take you through wildflowers. Some of the most popular trails include Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail, Middle Prong Trail, and the Gatlinburg Trail.

Is the Shopping Better in Gatlinburg or Jasper National Park?

Gatlinburg is a nice place to visit for shopping. However, Jasper National Park is not particularly known for its shopping opportunities.

Gatlinburg is a great destination for shopping. There are tourist traps and souvenir shops around town, but you can also head to the Great Smoky Arts and Crafts Community where you can meet local artists and learn about their work.

If you're looking to go shopping, Jasper National Park has some nice offerings. In town you'll find shops where you can pick up souvenirs or things you may have forgotten.

Is Gatlinburg or Jasper National Park More Beautiful?

Jasper National Park is renowned for its scenery and beauty. However, Gatlinburg is not a destination known for its beauty.

Many visitors also come to Jasper National Park because of it's amazing beauty. The Canadian Rockies create a stunning backdrop for this beautiful and vast national park.

Gatlinburg is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Gatlinburg or Jasper National Park Better for Families?

Jasper National Park is great for its kid-friendly activities. However, Gatlinburg is not a family-friendly destination.

Jasper National Park is a very family-friendly destination. Kids who love running, hiking, and exploring will enjoy a visit to this iconic park. The hiking trails are world class and you'll likely see some wildlife during your trip. Camping with s'mores and hot dogs will make for a memorable family vacation.

Gatlinburg is not a family-friendly destination. Ober Gatlinburg is a combination ski resort and amusement park that is a highlight for many families. During the warmer season, horseback riding and waterparks are popular. There's also a Ripley's Aquarium, minigolf, and Gatlin's Fun Center. Nearby you'll find Dollywood and Pigeon Forge.

Is Gatlinburg or Jasper National Park Better for Couples?

Both Gatlinburg and Jasper National Park are excellent destinations to visit as a couple.

Gatlinburg is a great city if you're traveling as a couple. If you're looking for a flashy and ostentatious experience, then there are all the typical activities around town - Ripley's Believe It or Not, the Gatlinburg Space Needle, or Ober Gatlinburg. For a bit more nature, you can head out of town and enjoy one of the many hiking trails. There are also breweries and wineries in the area, as well as a range of resorts.

Jasper National Park is a very popular place to visit for couples. There are lodges where couples can enjoy a romantic getaway. For the more adventurous, camping is a great way to experience the park. If you enjoy outdoor adventures together, then this is a great place to spend some time in nature.

Is Gatlinburg or Jasper National Park Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Jasper National Park is renowned for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Gatlinburg is not a good destination for backpackers.

Many backpackers frequent Jasper National Park. Camping is the best way to experience the park in full. You'll be surrounded by nature, and if you're lucky, some wildlife might pass by as well.

Gatlinburg is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. It's a touristy town with plenty of cheap motels in the area. There are also campgrounds and hiking not far away.

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

Gatlinburg is a nice place to visit for its public transit. However, Jasper National Park is not particularly known for times when you don't have a car.

You'll find some public transit in Gatlinburg, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There's a free trolley service that offers a convenient way to get around town.

Public transit is quite limited in Jasper National Park. If you don't have your own vehicle, a bus tour is your best option for experiencing the park.

Is Gatlinburg or Jasper National Park a more walkable city?

Gatlinburg is well known for its walkability. However, Jasper National Park is not particularly known for its high level of walkability.

Gatlinburg is very walkable. The downtown area is pedestrian-friendly and most of the attractions in town can be reached on foot. If you want to leave town, a car is a must, but in town traffic and parking can be frustrating, so walk when you can.

Jasper National Park is not a very walkable city. The park is large, and a vehicle is necessary to reach most trailheads.

For even more information, also check out Is Gatlinburg Worth Visiting? and Is Jasper National Park Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Jasper National Park or Gatlinburg?

How long in Gatlinburg or Jasper National Park?

In either Gatlinburg or Jasper National Park, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Jasper National Park than Gatlinburg because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Gatlinburg, and 2-5 days is enough time in Jasper National Park.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Gatlinburg than Jasper 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 Gatlinburg.

One day in Gatlinburg or Jasper National Park?

Many travelers enjoy the nightlife and shopping when visiting the destination of Gatlinburg. 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.

With around the adventure-filled national park of Jasper National Park, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. One of the main draws to the area is the hiking. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Gatlinburg or Jasper National Park?

Gatlinburg 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 city has to offer. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

With around the destination of Jasper National Park, there's plenty to do. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. One of the main draws to the area is the hiking. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this national park.

Five days in Gatlinburg or Jasper National Park?

Many people visit Gatlinburg for five days. You'll find museums and skiing around the city of Gatlinburg. Don't miss the nightlife, as that's what most people do. 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.

Jasper National Park, a popular national park, is full of activities for travelers. This is a popular place to visit for five days. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. In five days, you should have a good grasp of this national park. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

A week in Gatlinburg or Jasper National Park?

The flashy destination of Gatlinburg offers skiing and nightlife. Hikers are also drawn to this area. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. Don't miss the nightlife, as that's what most people do. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Jasper National Park is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. One of the main draws to the area is the hiking. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 2-Week Tours from San Francisco, The Best 2-Week Tours from Los Angeles, The Best Luxury Tours to Canada, and The Best Tours for Seniors to Canada.

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

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