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

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

Olympic National Park

Olympic National Park is a stunning, vast, and pristine park. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. Other popular activities here include museums, food, and hiking.

Redwood National Park and Olympic 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
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less popular for food
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Nice resorts
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty


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

Tourists will generally find more to do in Olympic National Park. Although Redwood National Park and Olympic National Park are both popular with visitors, Olympic National Park has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Olympic National Park is more popular for its museums, food, resorts, and shopping, while Redwood National Park is known for its beaches and impressive beauty. Redwood National Park is popular for being the home of the world's tallest trees. Olympic National Park is popular for its diverse landscapes and its frequent rainfall. It is also home to the Hoh Rain Forest.

How is Redwood National Park different from Olympic National Park?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Olympic 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 Olympic National Park?

Redwood National Park
Olympic National Park

Olympic National Park 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 Olympic National Park. There are several museums near the park that highlight the region's history, culture, and geology. These include the Makah Cultural & Research Center Museum, Forks Timber Museum, Sequim Museum, and Squaxin Island Museum, Library and Research Center.

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 Redwood National Park or Olympic National Park? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Redwood National Park
Olympic National Park

Olympic National Park 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 Olympic National Park area. Most of the lodges have restaurants within the park, but they can be overpriced. There are also restaurants just outside of the park's border.

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 Olympic National Park Better for Nightlife?

Redwood National Park
Olympic National Park

Neither Redwood National Park or Olympic 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 Olympic National Park You can enjoy a peaceful natural setting after the sun sets.

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

Redwood National Park
Olympic National Park

Olympic National Park is well known for its resorts. However, Redwood National Park is not a resort destination.

There are plenty of resorts in Olympic National Park to choose from. There are several lodges within the park as well as cabins and inns. Some have a historic atmosphere while others are more rustic. It's best to book well in advance, particularly if you're visiting during the peak summer months.

Redwood National Park is not a resort destination.


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

Redwood National Park
Olympic National Park

Redwood National Park is a popular place for the beache. However, Olympic 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.

Olympic National Park is not a beach destination. The park has a rugged coastline with sandy beaches. Many people enjoy exploring the tidal pools or watching the sun set. Some of the best beaches include Kalaloch Beach, Beach 4, and Ruby Beach.

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

Redwood National Park
Olympic National Park

Hiking trails can be found around both Redwood National Park and Olympic National Park, and they are amazing.

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

People visit Olympic National Park specifically for its hiking, as the natural beauty is well-known. Hiking trails will take you through the diverse range of landscapes. There are mountain climbs, coastal trails, and routes that wander through old growth forests. You'll also find a mix of day hikes and backcountry wilderness hikes. Mount Storm King, Marymere Falls, and the High Divide are favorite hikes in the park, but there are countless others.

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

Redwood National Park
Olympic National Park

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

Olympic National Park has some good spots for those that want to go shopping. There's a park store where you can pick up books, informational resources, and souvenirs.

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 Olympic National Park Better for Families?

Redwood National Park
Olympic National Park

Both Redwood National Park and Olympic National Park are superb family-friendly destinations.

Redwood National Park is known to be 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.

Olympic National Park is a very family-friendly destination. Kids will enjoy exploring the tidal pools and running around the beach. It's also fun to lose yourself in the old growth rainforests and spend some time kayaking or canoeing at Lake Crescent.

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

Redwood National Park
Olympic National Park

Redwood National Park and Olympic 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.

Olympic National Park is a great park if you're traveling as a couple. Couples who enjoy hiking, camping, and natural beauty will love exploring this park together. There are a diversity of ecosystems and landscapes where you can enjoy a couples retreat together.

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

Redwood National Park
Olympic National Park

Redwood National Park and Olympic 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 Olympic National Park. There are many beautiful backcountry destinations that let you experience this park in depth. Make sure you purchase a permit in advance.


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

Redwood National Park
Olympic National Park

Olympic 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 Olympic National Park. There are buses and ferries to the park, but the park is large and requires a private vehicle to fully access it.

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

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

Redwood National Park
Olympic National Park

Neither Redwood National Park or Olympic 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.

Olympic National Park is not a very walkable park. The park is large and you'll need a car to reach most of the trailheads.

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

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

How long in Redwood National Park or Olympic National Park?

In either Redwood National Park or Olympic National Park, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. In our opinion, Olympic National Park has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Olympic National Park than Redwood National Park. In general, 3-5 days is a good amount of time for Redwood National Park, and 2-5 days is enough time in Olympic National Park.

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

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

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


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

One day in Redwood National Park or Olympic 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 Olympic National Park, you'll find food and museums. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. 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.


A weekend in Redwood National Park or Olympic 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 Olympic 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 park. It offers something for everyone.

Five days in Redwood National Park or Olympic 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.

Olympic 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. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. In five days, you should have a good grasp of this park. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

A week in Redwood National Park or Olympic National Park?

You'll find around the impressive 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 museums and food around the vast destination of Olympic National Park. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Camping Tours in United States of America, The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in United States of America, The Best Walking Tours in United States of America, and The Best Tours Under $1000 in United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Olympic 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 Olympic National Park is $124. 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 Olympic National Park in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Redwood National Park $44
    Olympic National Park $49
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Redwood National Park $88
    Olympic National Park $98
Compare Hotels in Redwood National Park and Olympic National Park

Looking for a hotel in Redwood National Park or Olympic 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 Olympic 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
    Olympic National Park $68

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

Prices for flights to both Olympic 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
    Olympic National Park $35

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Redwood National Park $33
    Olympic National Park $26

Tours and Activities in Olympic National Park

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

  • Olympic Audio Driving Tour: $15
  • Olympic Full Day Small Group Tour: $299

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Redwood National Park $11
    Olympic National Park $5.57


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



When is the best time to visit Redwood National Park or Olympic 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 Redwood National Park or Olympic National Park in the Summer?

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

In July, Redwood National Park is generally around the same temperature as Olympic National Park. Daily temperatures in Redwood National Park average around 57°F (14°C), and Olympic National Park fluctuates around 60°F (15°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Olympic National Park this time of the year. In Redwood National Park, it's very sunny this time of the year. Redwood National Park usually receives more sunshine than Olympic National Park during summer. Redwood National Park gets 274 hours of sunny skies, while Olympic National Park receives 210 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Redwood National Park usually receives less rain than Olympic National Park. Redwood National Park gets 0.1 inches (3 mm) of rain, while Olympic National Park receives 2.8 inches (70 mm) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Redwood National Park 57°F (14°C) 
    Olympic National Park 60°F (15°C)

Should I visit Redwood National Park or Olympic National Park in the Autumn?

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

Redwood National Park is a little warmer than Olympic National Park in the autumn. The daily temperature in Redwood National Park averages around 55°F (13°C) in October, and Olympic National Park fluctuates around 51°F (10°C).

In the autumn, Redwood National Park often gets more sunshine than Olympic National Park. Redwood National Park gets 177 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Olympic National Park receives 113 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Olympic National Park. Redwood National Park usually gets less rain in October than Olympic National Park. Redwood National Park gets 2.7 inches (68 mm) of rain, while Olympic National Park receives 10.4 inches (263 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Redwood National Park 55°F (13°C) 
    Olympic National Park 51°F (10°C)

Should I visit Redwood National Park or Olympic National Park in the Winter?

Both Olympic National Park and Redwood National Park are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Also, most visitors come to Olympic National Park for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Olympic National Park can be very cold during winter. In the winter, Redwood National Park is much warmer than Olympic National Park. Typically, the winter temperatures in Redwood National Park in January average around 48°F (9°C), and Olympic National Park averages at about 41°F (5°C).

Redwood National Park usually receives more sunshine than Olympic National Park during winter. Redwood National Park gets 135 hours of sunny skies, while Olympic National Park receives 56 hours of full sun in the winter.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Olympic National Park. It's quite rainy in Redwood National Park. In January, Redwood National Park usually receives less rain than Olympic National Park. Redwood National Park gets 6 inches (152 mm) of rain, while Olympic National Park receives 13.7 inches (349 mm) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Redwood National Park 48°F (9°C) 
    Olympic National Park 41°F (5°C)

Should I visit Redwood National Park or Olympic National Park in the Spring?

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

In April, Redwood National Park is generally a little warmer than Olympic National Park. Daily temperatures in Redwood National Park average around 50°F (10°C), and Olympic National Park fluctuates around 47°F (8°C).

It's quite sunny in Redwood National Park. In the spring, Redwood National Park often gets more sunshine than Olympic National Park. Redwood National Park gets 254 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Olympic National Park receives 148 hours of full sun.

Olympic National Park gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Redwood National Park usually gets less rain in April than Olympic National Park. Redwood National Park gets 2.9 inches (73 mm) of rain, while Olympic National Park receives 7.4 inches (189 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Redwood National Park 50°F (10°C) 
    Olympic National Park 47°F (8°C)

Typical Weather for Olympic National Park and Redwood National Park

Redwood National Park Olympic National Park
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 48°F (9°C) 6 inches (152 mm) 41°F (5°C) 13.7 inches (349 mm)
Feb 49°F (10°C) 4.7 inches (120 mm) 43°F (6°C) 12.2 inches (311 mm)
Mar 50°F (10°C) 5.3 inches (135 mm) 44°F (7°C) 11.6 inches (294 mm)
Apr 50°F (10°C) 2.9 inches (73 mm) 47°F (8°C) 7.4 inches (189 mm)
May 53°F (12°C) 1.5 inches (37 mm) 52°F (11°C) 5.6 inches (142 mm)
Jun 56°F (13°C) 0.5 inches (13 mm) 56°F (13°C) 3.3 inches (85 mm)
Jul 57°F (14°C) 0.1 inches (3 mm) 60°F (15°C) 2.8 inches (70 mm)
Aug 58°F (14°C) 0.5 inches (12 mm) 60°F (16°C) 2.4 inches (60 mm)
Sep 58°F (14°C) 0.9 inches (23 mm) 58°F (14°C) 5 inches (126 mm)
Oct 55°F (13°C) 2.7 inches (68 mm) 51°F (10°C) 10.4 inches (263 mm)
Nov 52°F (11°C) 6.5 inches (164 mm) 45°F (7°C) 14 inches (355 mm)
Dec 49°F (9°C) 6 inches (153 mm) 41°F (5°C) 15 inches (380 mm)


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