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

Should you visit Pocono Mountains or Yellowstone 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 Yellowstone 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 hiking, shopping, and museums.

Yellowstone National Park

Yellowstone National Park is a world-famous, popular, and immense national park. You'll find world class beauty here as well. And you can't forget about the hiking.

Pocono Mountains and Yellowstone National Park: Pros and Cons

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

Tourists will generally find more to do in Pocono Mountains. Although Pocono Mountains and Yellowstone 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, and shopping, while Yellowstone National Park is known for its resorts, hiking, and impressive beauty. Yellowstone National Park is more touristy than Pocono Mountains and is known for its iconic geysers, breathtaking waterfalls, world-class hikes, and diverse wildlife. Pocono Mountains is popular for its hiking trails, boating and fishing, and small towns. It is also home to Bushkill Falls.

How is Pocono Mountains different from Yellowstone National Park?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Pocono Mountains or Yellowstone National Park Better for Skiing?

Pocono Mountains is well known for winter skiing. However, Yellowstone 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.

Yellowstone National Park is not a skiing destination.

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

Pocono Mountains is a popular place for its museums and landmarks. However, Yellowstone National Park does not have museums and landmarks.

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.

Yellowstone National Park does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Pocono Mountains is a popular place for its restaurant scene. However, Yellowstone 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.

Yellowstone National Park offers some easy restaurants to choose from. This is a large park and there are a number of dining options available both inside and just outside of the park. Many places are seasonal so your options will be highest during the summer months. Like most national park venues, prices can be high and the quality is variable. It's recommended that you pack your own food and plan to picnic.

Is Pocono Mountains or Yellowstone National Park Better for Nightlife?

Pocono Mountains is a region with a few options for its evening party scene. However, Yellowstone National Park is not a destination with noteworthy 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.

Yellowstone National Park is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Is Pocono Mountains or Yellowstone National Park Better for Resorts?

Yellowstone National Park is notable for its resorts. Also, Pocono Mountains is not as famous, but is still a good region to visit for its luxury resorts.

In Yellowstone National Park, you'll find some of the region's top resorts. It is a large national park, and there are several impressive lodges nearby. Reservations are recommended well in advance. Within the park, Old Faithful Inn, Roosevelt Lodge, Lake Yellowstone Hotel, and Mammoth Hot Springs Hotel are all nice options.

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.

Is Pocono Mountains or Yellowstone National Park Better for Hiking?

Yellowstone 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 Yellowstone National Park visitors will find world-class hiking trails. The park is huge, and there are countless hikes throughout. From short strolls to lengthy endeavors, there really is something for everyone. If you want to see the geysers, some of the best hikes are Grand Prismatic Overlook Trail, the Upper Geyser Basin and Old Faithful Observation Point Loop, and the Lone Star Geyser Trail. For waterfalls you can check out Brink of the Lower Falls Trail, the North Rim Trail, and Fairy Falls 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 Yellowstone National Park?

Pocono Mountains is a popular place for its shopping areas. However, Yellowstone National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

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.

Yellowstone National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Pocono Mountains or Yellowstone National Park Better for Families?

Both Pocono Mountains and Yellowstone National Park are excellent 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 Yellowstone National Park. Kids who enjoy the outdoors and exploring new environments will appreciate a visit to this park. The geysers are fascinating for everyone and the waterfalls are breathtaking. There are ranger shows and other activities that are great for kids as well. Make sure you stop by the Visitor's Centers.

Is Pocono Mountains or Yellowstone National Park Better for Couples?

Both Pocono Mountains and Yellowstone National Park are excellent 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.

Yellowstone National Park makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. This park is a beautiful and romantic destination for couples who enjoy the outdoors. There are world-renowned hikes and breathtaking views. There are also lodges in the area that make for a romantic stay.

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

Yellowstone 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 Yellowstone National Park. Backpackers will appreciate the campgrounds and affordable facilities that are found around the park. Reservations are recommended well in advance, particularly if you're hoping to stay inside the park.

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

Pocono Mountains is a region with a few options for its public transit. However, Yellowstone 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 Yellowstone National Park. There is no public transportation service available in the park. There are private tour options available.

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

Pocono Mountains is a region with a few options for its ease of walking around. However, Yellowstone 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.

Yellowstone National Park is not a very walkable region. This is among the largest national parks and a car is an absolute must if you hope to experience the different landscapes.

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

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

How long in Pocono Mountains or Yellowstone National Park?

Both Pocono Mountains and Yellowstone National Park have a number of activities to choose from. In our opinion, Pocono Mountains has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Pocono Mountains than Yellowstone National Park. In general, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Pocono Mountains, and 5-7 days is enough time in Yellowstone National Park.

Families should spend more time in Pocono Mountains than Yellowstone 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 Yellowstone 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 Yellowstone 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.

One day in Pocono Mountains or Yellowstone National Park?

Visitors enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the scenic region of Pocono Mountains. 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.

You'll find around the world-famous destination of Yellowstone 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 national park offers a variety of activities to choose from.

A weekend in Pocono Mountains or Yellowstone National Park?

Visitors enjoy the museums and skiing when visiting the destination of Pocono Mountains. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. Anyone can find something fun to do here. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

You'll find around the unique national park of Yellowstone National Park. It's also a relaxing resort destination. 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 Yellowstone National Park?

Pocono Mountains is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have five days, this region 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.

Yellowstone 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 Yellowstone National Park?

Pocono Mountains is a popular choice for travelers. One week here is typical. One week is usually enough time to experience most activities. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Yellowstone National Park is a great place to explore. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. It is common to spend one week here. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Most people head to the area for the hiking. One week is often enough time to do most activities.

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.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Pocono Mountains and Yellowstone National Park, we can see that Pocono Mountains is more expensive. And not only is Yellowstone National Park much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Yellowstone National Park would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Yellowstone 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 Yellowstone 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 Yellowstone National Park Expensive?.