A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Joshua Tree National Park vs. Grand Teton National Park for Hiking, Couples, Backpackers, and Families

Should you visit Joshua Tree National Park or Grand Teton National Park?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Joshua Tree National Park and Grand Teton National Park can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

Joshua Tree National Park

Joshua Tree National Park is a fascinating, adventurous, and unique national park. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Other reasons to visit include hiking.

Grand Teton National Park

Grand Teton National Park is a spectacular, impressive, and vast park. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. It's also popular because of the hiking.

Joshua Tree National Park and Grand Teton 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
  • 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


Is there more to do in Joshua Tree National Park or Grand Teton National Park?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Grand Teton National Park than Joshua Tree National Park, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Joshua Tree National Park is well known for its unique vegetation and large boulders. Grand Teton National Park is well known for its grand peaks and diverse wildlife. Also, Grand Teton National Park is famous for Jenny Lake.

How is Joshua Tree National Park 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 Joshua Tree National Park. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Joshua Tree National Park or Grand Teton National Park?

Joshua Tree National Park
Grand Teton National Park

You'll find a number of respectable museums and attractions in both Grand Teton National Park and Joshua Tree National Park.

While most people don't head to Joshua Tree National Park specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. There are a couple of museums in the area that display local art or cultural and historical items.

Grand Teton National Park offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. The Visitor Centers have exhibits and other informational sessions.


Is the Food Better in Joshua Tree National Park or Grand Teton National Park? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Joshua Tree National Park
Grand Teton National Park

Grand Teton National Park is a decent place to visit for its restaurants. However, Joshua Tree National Park is lacking in good options for its restaurant scene.

Grand Teton National Park may not make the list for most foodies, but you'll find what you need while you're in town. There are a number of restaurants and cafes around the park where you can enjoy a meal, often with a view.

While Joshua Tree National Park is not famous for its food, you'll find what you need there. There aren't any restaurants inside the park, so you'll want to pack your own food and eat at one of the picnic areas.

Is Joshua Tree National Park or Grand Teton National Park Better for Nightlife?

Joshua Tree National Park
Grand Teton National Park

Grand Teton National Park is a decent place to visit for its evening party scene. However, Joshua Tree National Park is lacking in good options for nightlife.

Those looking for nightlife will find a few places to hang out in Grand Teton National Park. There's a lounge at Jackson Lake Lodge, but most visitors enjoy a relaxing night in.

Things get quiet in the evenings in Joshua Tree National Park. Stargazing and gathering around campfires are the most popular activities during the evening.

Is Joshua Tree National Park or Grand Teton National Park Better for Resorts?

Joshua Tree National Park
Grand Teton National Park

Grand Teton National Park is a very popular place for its luxury resorts. However, Joshua Tree National Park is not a resort destination.

In Grand Teton National Park, you'll find some of the region's top resorts. There are several impressive lodges within the park, as well as cabins and more rustic hotels.

Joshua Tree National Park is not a resort destination.


Is Joshua Tree National Park or Grand Teton National Park Better for Hiking?

Joshua Tree National Park
Grand Teton National Park

Both Joshua Tree National Park and Grand Teton National Park are destinations which offer terrific hiking.

Around Joshua Tree National Park visitors will find world-class hiking trails. There are a wide range of hikes that include easy, moderate, and strenuous options. Some of the best hikes include Discovery Trail, Boy Scout Trail, and Black Rock Canyon Panorama Loop.

Grand Teton National Park is well-known for its hiking and trekking. 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.

Is the Shopping Better in Joshua Tree National Park or Grand Teton National Park?

Joshua Tree National Park
Grand Teton National Park

Grand Teton National Park is a decent place to visit for its shopping areas. However, Joshua Tree National Park is lacking in good options for shopping.

Grand Teton National Park has some good spots for those that want to go shopping. There are park stores where you can pick up souvenirs or gifts.

Joshua Tree National Park has some shopping areas for those that seek them out. There is a park store where you can pick up gifts or other items.

Is Joshua Tree National Park or Grand Teton National Park Better for Families?

Joshua Tree National Park
Grand Teton National Park

Both Joshua Tree National Park and Grand Teton National Park are excellent to visit with kids.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Joshua Tree National Park. With its giant boulders that kids can scramble on and its Dr. Seuss-like Joshua Trees, this really is nature's best playground. There are also kid-friendly hikes and Junior Ranger Programs that will both educate and entertain the kids.

Grand Teton National Park is a very family-friendly place to visit. Kids will enjoy the hiking and wildlife spotting. There's also horseback riding and Ranger Programs that are designed for all ages.


Is Joshua Tree National Park or Grand Teton National Park Better for Couples?

Joshua Tree National Park
Grand Teton National Park

Grand Teton National Park is renowned for couples. Also, Joshua Tree National Park is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for romance.

Grand Teton National Park is a great park for couples, as it has plenty to offer. 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.

Couples visit Joshua Tree National Park frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. Couples who enjoy the outdoors, adventure sports like rock climbing, and hiking through spectacular landscapes will find this to be the ultimate romantic destination.

Is Joshua Tree National Park or Grand Teton National Park Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Joshua Tree National Park
Grand Teton National Park

Joshua Tree National Park and Grand Teton National Park are both terrific destinations for backpackers.

A large number of backpackers visit Joshua Tree National Park, as it is a very popular national park for budget travelers. There are campgrounds and hiking trails that are popular with backpackers and nature enthusiasts.

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.

Is Joshua Tree National Park or Grand Teton National Park Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Joshua Tree National Park
Grand Teton National Park

Neither Joshua Tree National Park or Grand Teton National Park offer decent public transit.

Public transit is quite limited in Joshua Tree National Park. There's no reliable public transportation in the park.

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


Is Joshua Tree National Park or Grand Teton National Park a more walkable city?

Joshua Tree National Park
Grand Teton National Park

Grand Teton National Park is a decent place to visit for its ease of walking around. However, Joshua Tree National Park is lacking in good options for its walkability.

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

Joshua Tree National Park is not a walkable national park. You need a car to truly explore the park.

For even more information, also check out Is Joshua Tree National Park Worth Visiting? and Is Grand Teton National Park Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Grand Teton National Park or Joshua Tree National Park?

How long in Joshua Tree National Park or Grand Teton National Park?

Both Joshua Tree National Park 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 Joshua Tree National Park. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Joshua Tree National Park, and 3-7 days is enough time in Grand Teton National Park.

Families should spend more time in Grand Teton National Park than Joshua Tree National Park. 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 Joshua Tree National Park. 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 Joshua Tree 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 Grand Teton National Park.


  • How many days in Joshua Tree National Park or Grand Teton National Park? Ideal Length of Stay
    Joshua Tree National Park 2-4 
    Grand Teton National Park 3-7

One day in Joshua Tree National Park or Grand Teton National Park?

Visitors enjoy the when visiting the adventurous national park of Joshua Tree National Park. 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.

Visitors enjoy the when visiting the spectacular park of Grand Teton National Park. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. 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.

A weekend in Joshua Tree National Park or Grand Teton National Park?

Visitors enjoy the when visiting the destination of Joshua Tree National Park. 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. Most people visit for the hiking. Because of this, a weekend is usually enough time for a trip here.

Visitors enjoy the when visiting the destination of Grand Teton National Park. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Most people visit for the hiking. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.


Five days in Joshua Tree National Park or Grand Teton National Park?

Joshua Tree National Park 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.

Grand Teton National Park is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have five days, this park makes for a great vacation. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. Because of this, five days is usually enough time for a trip here. It offers something for everyone.

A week in Joshua Tree National Park or Grand Teton National Park?

Joshua Tree National Park is a popular choice for travelers. Most people visit for the hiking. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Grand Teton National Park is a popular choice for travelers. One week here is typical. Most people visit for the hiking. One week is usually enough time to experience most activities. Your budget might influence how long you stay.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Cultural Tours in United States of America, The Best Photography Tours in United States of America, The Best Camping Tours in United States of America, and The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Grand Teton National Park or Joshua Tree National Park?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Joshua Tree National Park is $152, 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 Joshua Tree National Park and Grand Teton National Park in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Joshua Tree National Park $87
    Grand Teton National Park $79
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Joshua Tree National Park $174
    Grand Teton National Park $158
Compare Hotels in Joshua Tree National Park and Grand Teton National Park

Looking for a hotel in Joshua Tree National Park 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 Joshua Tree National Park


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.
    Joshua Tree National Park $47
    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 Luxury 4wd SUV To/From Transfer Jackson Hole Airport: $140
  • Private SUV Transfers to/ from Jackson Hole Airport JAC: $105

Is it cheaper to fly into Joshua Tree National Park or Grand Teton National Park?

Prices for flights to both Grand Teton National Park and Joshua Tree 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
    Joshua Tree National Park $35
    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.
    Joshua Tree National Park $27
    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
    Joshua Tree National Park $4.93
    Grand Teton National Park $19


When comparing the travel costs between Joshua Tree National Park and Grand Teton National Park, we can see that Grand Teton National Park 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 Joshua Tree National Park Expensive? and Is Grand Teton National Park Expensive?.