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

Should you visit Pocono Mountains or Yosemite 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 Yosemite 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 scenic, beautiful, and magnificent region. It offers plenty of beauty for visitors. Other popular activities here include hiking, shopping, and museums.

Yosemite National Park

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

Pocono Mountains and Yosemite National Park: Pros and Cons

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

Tourists will generally find more to do in Pocono Mountains. Although Pocono Mountains and Yosemite 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 Yosemite National Park is known for its resorts, hiking, and impressive beauty. Yosemite National Park is more touristy than Pocono Mountains and is known for its stunning hikes, giant Sequoias, breathtaking vistas, and the granite cliffs of Half Dome. 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 Yosemite National Park?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Pocono Mountains or Yosemite National Park Better for Skiing?

Pocono Mountains is a well-known place for snow skiing. However, Yosemite 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.

Yosemite National Park is not a skiing destination.

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

Pocono Mountains is a popular place for its sights and museums. However, Yosemite 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.

Yosemite National Park does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Pocono Mountains is a popular place for its local cuisine and restaurants. However, Yosemite National Park is not a good national park for its restaurants.

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.

Yosemite National Park offers some easy restaurants to choose from. There are a few varied restaurants in the park that offer casual food or packaged meals that you can take away. The food is generally expensive and not always the best, so you'll likely enjoy packing your own picnic food to enjoy within the park.

Is Pocono Mountains or Yosemite National Park Better for Nightlife?

Pocono Mountains is a moderate region for its evening party scene. However, Yosemite National Park is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Most people don't head to Pocono Mountains specifically for the nightlife scene, but you can find a few options. 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.

Yosemite National Park is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Is Pocono Mountains or Yosemite National Park Better for Resorts?

Yosemite 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 Yosemite National Park, you'll find some of the region's top resorts. There are several grand hotels and lodges within the park. Reservations are a must, especially if you're traveling during peak seasons.

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 Yosemite National Park Better for Hiking?

Yosemite 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 Yosemite National Park visitors will find world-class hiking trails. This park has many famous hikes that take you by Half Dome, near Yosemite Falls, and through breathtaking landscapes. Popular hikes in the area include Mist Trail to Vernal Fall and Nevada Fall and Mirror Lake 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 Yosemite National Park?

Pocono Mountains is a popular place for its shopping areas. However, Yosemite 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.

Yosemite National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Pocono Mountains or Yosemite National Park Better for Families?

Both Pocono Mountains and Yosemite 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 Yosemite National Park. This park has many hikes, climbs, and activities that kids of all ages can enjoy. When the weather's warm the kids will enjoy getting wet in Merced River. They'll also be impressed by the giant sequoias and the beautiful waterfalls. In the evening the staff host ranger programs that are fun and educational for everyone. The park also has kid-friendly camping and lodges.

Is Pocono Mountains or Yosemite National Park Better for Couples?

Both Pocono Mountains and Yosemite 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.

Yosemite National Park makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Couples who enjoy nature, rock climbing, hiking, and being outside will enjoy a visit to this park. There is an endless supply of romantic views and fun-filled activities that are perfect for avid hikers or those looking for a more relaxing travel experience.

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

Yosemite 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 Yosemite National Park. Campgrounds and back country trails make this area a backpacker's paradise.

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

Yosemite National Park is a national park with good options for its public transit. However, Pocono Mountains is a mediocre region for times when you don't have a car.

Yosemite National Park has a few public transit options. There is a free bus service that travels around Yosemite Valley.

Public transit is mostly 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.

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

Pocono Mountains and Yosemite National Park both are decent when exploring on foot.

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.

Yosemite National Park is generally not a very walkable region. The park is large and a car is necessary to reach many places within the park.

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

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

How long in Pocono Mountains or Yosemite National Park?

Both Pocono Mountains and Yosemite 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 Yosemite National Park. However, 3-7 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

Families should spend more time in Pocono Mountains than Yosemite 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 Yosemite 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 Yosemite National Park than Pocono Mountains 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 Yosemite National Park.

One day in Pocono Mountains or Yosemite National Park?

The region of Pocono Mountains offers museums and skiing. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

You'll find around the stunning destination of Yosemite 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 Yosemite National Park?

The magnificent destination of Pocono Mountains offers skiing and food. This region offers something for everyone. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything.

You'll find around the popular national park of Yosemite 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 Yosemite National Park?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Pocono Mountains. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. Hikers are also drawn to this area. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then five days is just the right amount of time to spend here. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

Yosemite 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 Yosemite National Park?

Pocono Mountains is a fun place to experience. The destination of Pocono Mountains offers shopping and museums. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. In one week, you should have a good grasp of this region.

Yosemite 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 Yosemite National Park, we can see that Pocono Mountains is more expensive. And not only is Yosemite National Park much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Yosemite National Park would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Yosemite 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 Yosemite 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 Yosemite National Park Expensive?.