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

Should you visit Redwood National Park or Glacier National Park?

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

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Redwood National Park and Glacier National Park. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Redwood National Park

Redwood National Park is a grand, impressive, and monumental park. You'll find world class beauty here as well. It's also known for beaches and hiking.

Glacier National Park

Glacier National Park is a gorgeous, stunning, and breathtaking park. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. Other popular activities here include hiking.

Redwood National Park and Glacier National Park: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Pros
  • Nice resorts
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to Going-to-the-Sun Road


Is there more to do in Redwood National Park or Glacier National Park?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Glacier National Park than Redwood National Park, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Glacier National Park is better known for its food, resorts, and shopping, while Redwood National Park is more popular for its beaches and hiking. Glacier National Park is more touristy than Redwood National Park and is known for its miles of hiking trails, impressive glaciers, and pristine lakes. Also, Glacier National Park is famous for Going-to-the-Sun Road. Redwood National Park is well known for being the home of the world's tallest trees.

How is Redwood National Park different from Glacier National Park?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Redwood National Park
Glacier National Park

Neither Redwood National Park or Glacier National Park offer quality museums and landmarks.

Redwood National Park offers a few options for museum-goers. 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.

If you're looking to pass the time, head to a museum or historic sight in Glacier National Park. There are a couple of local museums in the area, but most people head straight for the park.


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

Redwood National Park
Glacier National Park

Glacier National Park is a park with a few options for its restaurant scene. However, Redwood National Park is not particularly known for its local flavors and cuisine.

Glacier National Park may not make the list for most foodies, but you'll find what you need while you're in town. You'll find several restaurants and cafes both within and near the park, but this is an incredibly crowded park so you'll want to make reservations well in advance.

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 Redwood National Park or Glacier National Park Better for Nightlife?

Redwood National Park
Glacier National Park

Neither Redwood National Park or Glacier National Park offer decent nightlife.

Things get quiet in the evenings in Redwood National Park. The laid back setting offers little in the form of nightlife.

The nightlife scene is quiet in Glacier National Park People visit for the scenery, not the nightlife scene.

Is Redwood National Park or Glacier National Park Better for Resorts?

Redwood National Park
Glacier National Park

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

Glacier National Park has a few great resort options. There are several lodges, cabins, and inns near or within the park, but reservations are recommended well in advance.

Redwood National Park is not a resort destination.


Is Redwood National Park or Glacier National Park Better for Beaches?

Redwood National Park
Glacier National Park

Redwood National Park is a popular place for its beaches. However, Glacier National Park is not a beach destination.

Redwood National Park is a good option for a beach vacation. 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.

Glacier National Park is not a beach destination.

Is Redwood National Park or Glacier National Park Better for Hiking?

Redwood National Park
Glacier National Park

Redwood National Park is very popular for the nearby hiking options. Also, Glacier National Park is not as famous, but is still a good park to visit for its hiking trails.

People visit Redwood National Park specifically for its hiking, as the natural beauty is well-known. 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 Glacier National Park. There are more than 700 miles of trails in the park. For the best experience, you should purchase a permit and explore the parks backcountry. Other popular trails include Highline Trail, Grinnell Glacier Trail, and Avalanche Lake Trail. It's best to start in the early morning as this is a popular park and the trails get busier as the day progresses.

Is the Shopping Better in Redwood National Park or Glacier National Park?

Redwood National Park
Glacier National Park

Glacier National Park is a park with a few options for its shopping areas. However, Redwood National Park is not particularly known for shopping.

Glacier National Park has some good spots for those that want to go shopping. There are park stores where you can pick up books, souvenirs, and gifts.

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 Redwood National Park or Glacier National Park Better for Families?

Redwood National Park
Glacier National Park

Redwood National Park is notable for its family-friendly activities. Also, Glacier National Park is not as famous, but is still a good park to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

Redwood National Park is a very family-friendly place to visit. 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.

Glacier National Park is a family-friendly park. The landscapes are spectacular, but the crowds can be intense, which means it can be hard to find places to pull over and park during the peak seasons. Keep this in mind when you're traveling with kids because you may end up spending more time in the car than you'd expected.

Is Redwood National Park or Glacier National Park Better for Couples?

Redwood National Park
Glacier National Park

Redwood National Park and Glacier National Park both superb destinations for a couple.

Couples visit Redwood National Park frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. 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.

Glacier National Park is a great park if you're traveling as a couple. Drive along the scenic Going-to-the-Sun-Road and take in the truly breathtaking scenery. Many people consider this to be a top destination for a honeymoon and couples will appreciate the impressive hikes, dramatic waterfalls, and adventure-filled activities.

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

Redwood National Park
Glacier National Park

Redwood National Park and Glacier National Park are amazing places to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Redwood National Park is a very popular park to visit for backpackers. 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.

Many backpackers frequent Glacier National Park. The backcountry is truly pristine, and obtaining a Wilderness Permit and getting off-the-beaten-path will help you escape some of the crowds that the park is known for.


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

Redwood National Park
Glacier National Park

Glacier National Park is a park 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 Glacier National Park. There's a free shuttle along Going-to-the-Sun Road that's available on a first-come, first-served basis, but expect crowds. The road can get quite congested during peak times. There are also tours that take you along the road so you can enjoy the scenery without having to focus on driving.

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

Is Redwood National Park or Glacier National Park a more walkable city?

Redwood National Park
Glacier National Park

Neither Redwood National Park or Glacier National Park are walkable places.

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

Glacier National Park is not a very walkable park. You'll need a car to get almost anywhere in the park.

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

Should I spend more time in Glacier National Park or Redwood National Park?

How long in Redwood National Park or Glacier National Park?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Redwood National Park and Glacier National Park. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Redwood National Park than in Glacier National Park. Usually, 3-5 days is a good amount of time for Redwood National Park, and 2-3 days is enough time in Glacier National Park.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Glacier National Park 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 Glacier National Park.


  • How many days in Redwood National Park or Glacier National Park? Ideal Length of Stay
    Redwood National Park 3-5 
    Glacier National Park 2-3

One day in Redwood National Park or Glacier National Park?

In Redwood 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.

In Glacier National Park, you'll find . 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.


A weekend in Redwood National Park or Glacier National Park?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Redwood National Park. One reason most visitors come is for the hiking. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. It offers something for everyone.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Glacier National Park. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this park. It offers something for everyone.

Five days in Redwood National Park or Glacier National Park?

Redwood National Park is a fun place to experience. One reason most visitors come is for the hiking. 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 park. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Glacier National Park is a fun place to experience. 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.

A week in Redwood National Park or Glacier National Park?

You'll find around the monumental destination of Redwood 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.

You'll find around the gorgeous destination of Glacier 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.


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, Glacier National Park or Redwood National Park?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Redwood National Park is $111, while the average daily cost in Glacier National Park is $127. 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 Redwood National Park and Glacier National Park in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Redwood National Park $44
    Glacier National Park $56
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Redwood National Park $88
    Glacier National Park $112
Compare Hotels in Redwood National Park and Glacier National Park

Looking for a hotel in Redwood National Park or Glacier 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 Redwood National Park


Hotels in Glacier 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.
    Redwood National Park $53
    Glacier National Park $69

Is it cheaper to fly into Redwood National Park or Glacier National Park?

Prices for flights to both Glacier National Park and Redwood 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
    Redwood National Park $33
    Glacier National Park $28

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Glacier National Park

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Glacier National Park.

  • Half Day Whitewater Rafting with Riverside Dinner: $113

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Redwood National Park $33
    Glacier National Park $34

Tours and Activities in Glacier National Park

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Glacier National Park are as follows:

  • Self-Guided Audio Driving Tour in Glacier National Park: $12
  • Glacier National Park Self-Guided Driving Audio Tour: $17
  • Self Guided Bike Tour in Glacier National Park : $65
  • Half-Day Glacier National Park Whitewater Rafting Adventure: $87
  • Full Day Glacier National Park Whitewater Rafting Adventure - With Lunch!: $152
  • Full Day Whitewater Adventure Trip with Included Lunch: $157
  • Half Day Bike and Hike Tour in around Whitefish: $175
  • Shared Glacier Adventure: Drive and Snowshoe with Lunch: $220
  • 5 Hours Glacier National Park Driving Tour : $220

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Redwood National Park $11
    Glacier National Park $8.41


When comparing the travel costs between Redwood National Park and Glacier National Park, we can see that Glacier 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 Redwood National Park Expensive? and Is Glacier National Park Expensive?.


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