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

Should you visit Joshua Tree National Park or Sequoia 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 Sequoia 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.

Sequoia National Park

Sequoia National Park is a surreal, impressive, and magical national 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 Sequoia National Park: Pros and Cons

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

Visitors will usually find more to do in Sequoia National Park than Joshua Tree National Park, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Sequoia National Park is more touristy than Joshua Tree National Park and is known for its spectacularly large sequoia trees and its dramatic beauty. Also, Sequoia National Park is famous for the General Sherman tree. Joshua Tree National Park is well known for its unique vegetation and large boulders.

How is Joshua Tree 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 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 Sequoia National Park?

You'll find a number of respectable museums and attractions in both Sequoia 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.

Sequoia National Park offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. The visitor centers have informational exhibits and there's also The Giant Forest Museum.

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

Sequoia 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.

Sequoia 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, 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.

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 Sequoia National Park Better for Nightlife?

Neither Joshua Tree National Park or Sequoia National Park offer decent nightlife.

Joshua Tree National Park doesn't offer many options. Stargazing and gathering around campfires are the most popular activities during the evening.

Things get quiet in the evenings in Sequoia National Park. Nightlife is limited to stargazing and campfire chats.

Is Joshua Tree National Park or Sequoia National Park Better for Resorts?

Sequoia National Park is a decent place to visit for its luxury resorts. However, Joshua Tree National Park is not a resort destination.

You might not think of Sequoia National Park as a resort destination, but it has a few places. Wuksachi Lodge is the signature hotel option in the park.

Joshua Tree National Park is not a resort destination.

Is Joshua Tree National Park or Sequoia National Park Better for Hiking?

Both Joshua Tree National Park and Sequoia National Park are destinations which offer world-class 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.

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

Is the Shopping Better in Joshua Tree National Park or Sequoia National Park?

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

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

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 Sequoia National Park Better for Families?

Both Joshua Tree National Park and Sequoia National Park are great 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.

Sequoia National Park is a very family-friendly place to visit. 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 Joshua Tree National Park or Sequoia National Park Better for Couples?

Both Joshua Tree National Park and Sequoia National Park are great destinations for a couple's getaway.

Joshua Tree National Park makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Couples who enjoy the outdoors, adventure sports like rock climbing, and hiking through spectacular landscapes will find this to be the ultimate romantic destination.

Couples visit Sequoia National Park frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. 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 Joshua Tree National Park or Sequoia National Park Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Joshua Tree National Park and Sequoia National Park are both world-class 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.

Sequoia National Park is a mecca for backpackers and budget travelers. 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 Joshua Tree National Park or Sequoia National Park Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Sequoia National Park is a decent place to visit for times when you don't have a car. However, Joshua Tree National Park is lacking in good options for its public transit.

Public transit is mostly 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 limited or non-existant in Joshua Tree National Park. There's no reliable public transportation in the park.

Is Joshua Tree National Park or Sequoia National Park a more walkable city?

Sequoia 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.

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

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 Sequoia National Park Worth Visiting?.

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

How long in Joshua Tree National Park or Sequoia National Park?

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

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

One day in Joshua Tree National Park or Sequoia National Park?

In Joshua Tree National Park, you'll find . Hikers are also drawn to this area. One reason most visitors come is for the hiking. 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.

Visitors enjoy the when visiting the breathtaking national park of Sequoia 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.

A weekend in Joshua Tree National Park or Sequoia National Park?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Joshua Tree National Park. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. One reason most visitors come is for the hiking. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this national park. It offers something for everyone.

Visitors enjoy the when visiting the destination of Sequoia 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.

Five days in Joshua Tree National Park or Sequoia National Park?

Joshua Tree National Park is a fun place to experience. One reason most visitors come is for the hiking. 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.

Sequoia National Park is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have five days, this national park makes for a great vacation. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. 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 Sequoia National Park?

You'll find around the adventurous destination of Joshua Tree 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.

Sequoia 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.

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

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 Sequoia National Park Expensive?.