A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Pocono Mountains vs. Redwood National Park for Hiking, Backpackers, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Pocono Mountains or Redwood 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 Pocono Mountains and Redwood 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.

Pocono Mountains

Pocono Mountains is a magnificent, relaxing, and scenic region. It offers plenty of beauty for visitors. Other popular activities here include food, hiking, and shopping.

Redwood National Park

Redwood National Park is a impressive, monumental, and grand park. You'll find world class beauty here as well. And you can't forget about the beaches and hiking.

Pocono Mountains and Redwood National Park: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular for skiing
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Nice resorts
  • Good for hiking
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
Pros
  • Popular beach
  • 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
  • Less popular for food
  • Less popular for shopping


Is there more to do in Pocono Mountains or Redwood National Park?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Pocono Mountains. Although Pocono Mountains and Redwood National Park are both popular with visitors, Pocono Mountains has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Pocono Mountains is more popular for its skiing, museums, food, nightlife, resorts, and shopping, while Redwood National Park is known for its beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty. Pocono Mountains is popular for its hiking trails, boating and fishing, and small towns. It is also home to Bushkill Falls. Redwood National Park is popular for being the home of the world's tallest trees.

How is Pocono Mountains different from Redwood National Park?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Pocono Mountains or Redwood National Park Better for Skiing?

Pocono Mountains
Redwood National Park

Pocono Mountains is well known for winter skiing. However, Redwood National Park is not a skiing destination.

Pocono Mountains is a well-known ski destination which attracts visitors from far and wide. There are a number of ski resorts in the area that offer family-friendly skiing or more advanced options. Some of the most popular ski areas are Big Boulder, Blue Mountain, Camelback Mountain, and Jack Frost Mountain.

Redwood National Park is not a skiing destination.


Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Pocono Mountains or Redwood National Park?

Pocono Mountains
Redwood National Park

Pocono Mountains is a good destination for its museums and landmarks. However, Redwood National Park is not particularly known for its historical sights.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Pocono Mountains. Visiting a local museum is a great way to learn about the area's history and Native American population. For a glimpse back in time, you can visit the Asa Packer Mansion, Grey Towers National Historic Landmark, or Columns Museum. The Old Jail Museum is a fascinating place to visit and even offers ghost tours. The Pocono Indian Museum and Quiet Valley Living Historical Farm are both worth a visit as well.

If you're looking to pass the time, head to a museum or historic sight in Redwood National Park. There is little in the form of museums, but you can visit the Thomas H. Kuchel Visitor Center on the south side of the park and see exhibits about Yurok culture and the area's ecology.

Is the Food Better in Pocono Mountains or Redwood National Park? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Pocono Mountains
Redwood National Park

Pocono Mountains is a good destination for its restaurant scene. However, Redwood National Park is not particularly known for its local flavors and cuisine.

There are many up and coming restaurants in the Pocono Mountains area. Family-friendly restaurants are common. Many serve up casual American cuisine like burgers or pasta. There are also more upscale restaurants, some with impressive views, that will elevate your culinary experience. For a local experience, find a restaurant with a seasonal menu that makes the most of the local ingredients.

While Redwood National Park is not famous for its food, you'll find what you need there. There are no dining or grocery options within the park but there are some options just outside the park.

Is Pocono Mountains or Redwood National Park Better for Nightlife?

Pocono Mountains
Redwood National Park

Pocono Mountains is a region with a few options for its evening party scene. However, Redwood National Park is not particularly known for nightlife.

Pocono Mountains is generally a quiet destination but there are options around. There are some resorts with casinos and bars as well as local breweries and bars. You'll also find a theater or two in the area.

The nightlife scene is quiet in Redwood National Park The laid back setting offers little in the form of nightlife.


Is Pocono Mountains or Redwood National Park Better for Resorts?

Pocono Mountains
Redwood National Park

Pocono Mountains is a good destination for its resorts. However, Redwood National Park is not a resort destination.

Pocono Mountains has a few great resort options. Resorts range from family-friendly to romantic. Many have indoor pools or even water parks. Some also have spas, restaurants, and plenty of amenities.

Redwood National Park is not a resort destination.

Is Pocono Mountains or Redwood National Park Better for Beaches?

Pocono Mountains
Redwood National Park

Redwood National Park is a park with good options for the beache. However, Pocono Mountains is not a beach destination.

Plenty of visitors enjoy relaxing on the beach in Redwood National Park. The park runs along the Pacific coastline and there are 70 miles of coastal trail in the park. Beaches are rugged and sandy and favorite sections include Gold Bluff Beach, Crescent Beach, and Enderts Beach, which has great tidal pools.

Pocono Mountains is not a beach destination.

Is Pocono Mountains or Redwood National Park Better for Hiking?

Pocono Mountains
Redwood National Park

Redwood National Park is a must-visit destination for the nearby hiking options. Also, Pocono Mountains is not as famous, but is still a good region to visit for its hiking trails.

Around Redwood National Park visitors will find world-class hiking trails. Hikes range from coastal trails to world-renowned hikes through the redwoods. You'll feel humbled in the presence of these grand and majestic trees. Several of the most well-known hikes include Fern Canyon, the Cathedral Trees Trail, and Redwood Creek Trail.

Many visitors explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting Pocono Mountains. There are miles of hiking trails that take you through forests or to spectacular waterfalls. Trails range from easy to challenging and each offers a great way to escape into nature. Some of the more popular trails are found in Tobyhanna State Park and Promised Land State Park. The Appalachian Trail also passes through the area.


Is the Shopping Better in Pocono Mountains or Redwood National Park?

Pocono Mountains
Redwood National Park

Pocono Mountains is a good destination for its shopping areas. However, Redwood National Park is not particularly known for shopping.

Many visitors go to Pocono Mountains to go shopping. Head to the towns for some the best local shopping. The downtown areas in each of the major towns - Jim Thorpe, Stroudsburg, Milford, and Honesdale - have local vendors, antique shops, and the occasional flea market or farmer's market.

Shopping in Redwood National Park can be found for those interested. You'll find park stores at the visitor centers if you want to pick up a small gift or souvenir.

Is Pocono Mountains or Redwood National Park Better for Families?

Pocono Mountains
Redwood National Park

Both Pocono Mountains and Redwood National Park are very good to visit with kids.

Pocono Mountains is a very kid-friendly region. There's horseback riding in the warmer seasons and kid-friendly skiing in the winter. The kids will also enjoy the hiking, ziplining, and indoor waterparks in the area. Animal farms and petting zoos are also popular, particularly with the younger kids.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Redwood National Park. There are plenty of kid-friendly hikes in the park and the kids will love exploring the varied landscapes and diverse ecosystems. Less than a mile long, Fern Canyon is the perfect hike for little kids and it's not-to-be-missed. Cathedral Trees Trail is three miles, and also a highlight of any trip to the park.

Is Pocono Mountains or Redwood National Park Better for Couples?

Pocono Mountains
Redwood National Park

Both Pocono Mountains and Redwood National Park are very good destinations for a couple's getaway.

Pocono Mountains is a very popular place to visit for couples. Romantic resorts, cozy cabins, and luxurious spas all make this a wonderful couples destination. Outdoor enthusiasts will enjoy the hiking and adventure sports in the area, while those looking for a more relaxed experience will appreciate the dining and cultural activities.

Redwood National Park makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. There are historic lodges that make for a romantic getaway. You can fill your days with hikes through magical landscapes and breathtaking settings surrounded by the impressive redwoods.


Is Pocono Mountains or Redwood National Park Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Pocono Mountains
Redwood National Park

Redwood National Park is a must-visit destination for backpackers. Also, Pocono Mountains is not as famous, but is still a good region to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers and budget travelers come from all over the world to visit Redwood National Park. There are miles of backcountry trails that let you can explore the park in relative peace and solitude. This is an amazing way to experience the park, but do make sure you purchase a permit in advance.

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers visit Pocono Mountains. There's no shortage of campgrounds, cabins, and hiking opportunities that will let backpackers enjoy a bit of nature.

Is Pocono Mountains or Redwood National Park Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Pocono Mountains
Redwood National Park

Pocono Mountains is a region with a few options for its public transit. However, Redwood National Park is not particularly known for times when you don't have a car.

Public transit is generally limited in Pocono Mountains. There are some bus services that run between a few towns, but they're not an efficient way to get around.

Public transit is quite limited in Redwood National Park. There's no public transportation within the park.

Is Pocono Mountains or Redwood National Park a more walkable city?

Pocono Mountains
Redwood National Park

Pocono Mountains is a region with a few options for its ease of walking around. However, Redwood National Park is not particularly known for its walkability.

Pocono Mountains is generally not very walkable. While there are plenty of hiking trails and some walkable towns, you really need a car to explore the area.

Redwood National Park is not a very walkable region. The park is large and spread out, so you'll need a car to get around.


For even more information, also check out Is Pocono Mountains Worth Visiting? and Is Redwood National Park Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Redwood National Park or Pocono Mountains?

How long in Pocono Mountains or Redwood National Park?

In either Pocono Mountains or Redwood National Park, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Pocono Mountains than Redwood National Park because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Pocono Mountains, and 3-5 days is enough time in Redwood National Park.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Pocono Mountains than Redwood 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 Pocono Mountains.


  • How many days in Pocono Mountains or Redwood National Park? Ideal Length of Stay
    Pocono Mountains 3-7 
    Redwood National Park 3-5

One day in Pocono Mountains or Redwood National Park?

In Pocono Mountains, you'll find shopping and museums. 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.

You'll find around the grand destination of Redwood National Park. Hikers are also drawn to this area. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. This park offers a variety of activities to choose from.

A weekend in Pocono Mountains or Redwood National Park?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Pocono Mountains. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. It offers something for everyone.

You'll find around the grand park of Redwood National Park. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Most people head to the area for the hiking. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring.

Five days in Pocono Mountains or Redwood National Park?

Pocono Mountains is a fun place to experience. If you have five days, this is a great place to go. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. In five days, you should have a good grasp of this region. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Redwood National Park is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.


A week in Pocono Mountains or Redwood National Park?

In Pocono Mountains, you'll find food and shopping. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. Plenty of people spend one week in the area when traveling. One week should give you a good understanding of everything this region has to offer.

Redwood National Park is a great place to explore. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Most people head to the area for the hiking. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Family-Friendly Tours to United States of America, The Best Wildlife Tours to United States of America, The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in United States of America, and The Best Historical Tours in United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Redwood National Park or Pocono Mountains?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Pocono Mountains is $174, while the average daily cost in Redwood National Park is $111. 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 Pocono Mountains and Redwood National Park in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Pocono Mountains $89
    Redwood National Park $44
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Pocono Mountains $178
    Redwood National Park $88
Compare Hotels in Pocono Mountains and Redwood National Park

Looking for a hotel in Pocono Mountains or Redwood 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 Pocono Mountains


Hotels in Redwood 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.
    Pocono Mountains $49
    Redwood National Park $53

Is it cheaper to fly into Pocono Mountains or Redwood National Park?

Prices for flights to both Redwood National Park and Pocono Mountains 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
    Pocono Mountains $53
    Redwood National Park $33

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Pocono Mountains $30
    Redwood National Park $33

Tours and Activities in Pocono Mountains

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Pocono Mountains are as follows:

  • Private Mount Pocono Observation Air Tour: $64
  • Delaware Water Gap Air Tour: $141

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Pocono Mountains $13
    Redwood National Park $11


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

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



When is the best time to visit Pocono Mountains or Redwood National Park?

Both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. And since both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Pocono Mountains or Redwood National Park in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Pocono Mountains and Redwood National Park. The hiking and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Pocono Mountains this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Redwood National Park for the beaches, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Pocono Mountains is much warmer than Redwood National Park. Typically, the summer temperatures in Pocono Mountains in July average around 75°F (24°C), and Redwood National Park averages at about 57°F (14°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Redwood National Park this time of the year. In Pocono Mountains, it's very sunny this time of the year. Pocono Mountains usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Redwood National Park during summer. Pocono Mountains gets 288 hours of sunny skies, while Redwood National Park receives 274 hours of full sun in the summer.

Pocono Mountains gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Pocono Mountains usually receives more rain than Redwood National Park. Pocono Mountains gets 4.4 inches (111 mm) of rain, while Redwood National Park receives 0.1 inches (3 mm) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Pocono Mountains 75°F (24°C) 
    Redwood National Park 57°F (14°C)

Should I visit Pocono Mountains or Redwood National Park in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Pocono Mountains as well as Redwood National Park. Many travelers come to Pocono Mountains for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Additionally, many visitors come to Redwood National Park in the autumn for the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Pocono Mountains is generally around the same temperature as Redwood National Park. Daily temperatures in Pocono Mountains average around 55°F (13°C), and Redwood National Park fluctuates around 55°F (13°C).

In the autumn, Pocono Mountains often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Redwood National Park. Pocono Mountains gets 168 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Redwood National Park receives 177 hours of full sun.

Pocono Mountains usually gets around the same amount of rain in October as Redwood National Park. Pocono Mountains gets 2.7 inches (69 mm) of rain, while Redwood National Park receives 2.7 inches (68 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Pocono Mountains 55°F (13°C) 
    Redwood National Park 55°F (13°C)

Should I visit Pocono Mountains or Redwood National Park in the Winter?

Both Redwood National Park and Pocono Mountains are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Pocono Mountains in the winter for the skiing, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Pocono Mountains can get quite cold in the winter. Pocono Mountains is much colder than Redwood National Park in the winter. The daily temperature in Pocono Mountains averages around 28°F (-2°C) in January, and Redwood National Park fluctuates around 48°F (9°C).

Pocono Mountains usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Redwood National Park during winter. Pocono Mountains gets 127 hours of sunny skies, while Redwood National Park receives 135 hours of full sun in the winter.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Redwood National Park. In January, Pocono Mountains usually receives less rain than Redwood National Park. Pocono Mountains gets 3 inches (77 mm) of rain, while Redwood National Park receives 6 inches (152 mm) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Pocono Mountains 28°F (-2°C) 
    Redwood National Park 48°F (9°C)

Should I visit Pocono Mountains or Redwood National Park in the Spring?

Both Redwood National Park and Pocono Mountains during the spring are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Pocono Mountains for the natural beauty during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Redwood National Park because of the beaches and the natural beauty.

In the spring, Pocono Mountains is around the same temperature as Redwood National Park. Typically, the spring temperatures in Pocono Mountains in April average around 51°F (11°C), and Redwood National Park averages at about 50°F (10°C).

In Redwood National Park, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Pocono Mountains. In the spring, Pocono Mountains often gets less sunshine than Redwood National Park. Pocono Mountains gets 213 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Redwood National Park receives 254 hours of full sun.

Pocono Mountains usually gets more rain in April than Redwood National Park. Pocono Mountains gets 3.8 inches (96 mm) of rain, while Redwood National Park receives 2.9 inches (73 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Pocono Mountains 51°F (11°C) 
    Redwood National Park 50°F (10°C)

Typical Weather for Redwood National Park and Pocono Mountains

Pocono Mountains Redwood National Park
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 28°F (-2°C) 3 inches (77 mm) 48°F (9°C) 6 inches (152 mm)
Feb 31°F (-1°C) 2.8 inches (71 mm) 49°F (10°C) 4.7 inches (120 mm)
Mar 41°F (5°C) 3.6 inches (92 mm) 50°F (10°C) 5.3 inches (135 mm)
Apr 51°F (11°C) 3.8 inches (96 mm) 50°F (10°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm)
May 62°F (17°C) 3.8 inches (96 mm) 53°F (12°C) 1.5 inches (37 mm)
Jun 71°F (22°C) 3.5 inches (88 mm) 56°F (13°C) 0.5 inches (13 mm)
Jul 75°F (24°C) 4.4 inches (111 mm) 57°F (14°C) 0.1 inches (3 mm)
Aug 73°F (23°C) 4.2 inches (106 mm) 58°F (14°C) 0.5 inches (12 mm)
Sep 66°F (19°C) 3.6 inches (91 mm) 58°F (14°C) 0.9 inches (23 mm)
Oct 55°F (13°C) 2.7 inches (69 mm) 55°F (13°C) 2.7 inches (68 mm)
Nov 45°F (7°C) 3.6 inches (91 mm) 52°F (11°C) 6.5 inches (164 mm)
Dec 33°F (1°C) 3.6 inches (91 mm) 49°F (9°C) 6 inches (153 mm)