A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Sequoia National Park vs. Hood River for Hiking, Backpackers, Food, and Families

Should you visit Sequoia National Park or Hood River?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Sequoia National Park and Hood River 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.

Sequoia National Park

Sequoia National Park is a surreal, impressive, and magical national park. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Visitors also love the hiking.

Hood River

Hood River is a agricultural, quaint, and scenic town. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Other reasons to visit include skiing, nightlife, and food.

Sequoia National Park and Hood River: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Nice resorts
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to the General Sherman tree
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less popular for food
  • Less popular for nightlife
Pros
  • Popular for skiing
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • 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


Is there more to do in Sequoia National Park or Hood River?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Sequoia National Park. Although Sequoia National Park and Hood River are popular destinations, Sequoia National Park has more sights and attractions for tourists. Sequoia National Park is very popular for its resorts, hiking, and impressive beauty, while Hood River attracts visitors for its skiing, food, nightlife, and shopping. Sequoia National Park is more touristy than Hood River and is known for its spectacularly large sequoia trees and its dramatic beauty. It is also well known for the General Sherman tree. Hood River is famous for its waterfalls, wineries, and impressive mountains.

How is Sequoia National Park different from Hood River?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Sequoia National Park or Hood River Better for Skiing?

Sequoia National Park
Hood River

Hood River is a town with good options for skiing and snowboarding. However, Sequoia National Park is not a skiing destination.

Hood River is a great destination for skiing with plenty areas to explore. During the winter months, Hood River makes a nice base for nearby skiing. Timberline and Cooper Spur and both less than an hour away and offer great skiing opportunities.

Sequoia National Park is not a skiing destination.


Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Sequoia National Park or Hood River?

Sequoia National Park
Hood River

Spend time exploring the reasonable sights and museums in either Sequoia National Park or Hood River.

While most people don't head to Sequoia National Park specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. The visitor centers have informational exhibits and there's also The Giant Forest Museum.

Hood River offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. There are a couple of interesting museums in town such as the Western Antique Aeroplane and Automoblie Museum, the History Museum, and 301 Gallery.

Is the Food Better in Sequoia National Park or Hood River? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Sequoia National Park
Hood River

Hood River is a very popular place for its restaurants. However, Sequoia National Park is lacking in good options for its restaurant scene.

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in Hood River. Head to the downtown or waterfront areas for the best selection of restaurants. Most restaurants pride themselves on using local ingredients and supporting local farms. Dishes use fresh and healthy ingredients that make simple but high quality meals.

You'll find the standard options when it comes to food in Sequoia National Park. There are restaurants, cafes, and markets in the park where you can pick up food. Some options are only open seasonally so check in advance to make sure you understand the options.

Is Sequoia National Park or Hood River Better for Nightlife?

Sequoia National Park
Hood River

Hood River is a town with good options for nightlife. However, Sequoia National Park is lacking in good options for nightlife and partying.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Hood River. There are breweries, wineries, and local bars in the area that offer a laid back place where you can enjoy the local atmosphere.

Things get quiet in the evenings in Sequoia National Park. Nightlife is limited to stargazing and campfire chats.


Is Sequoia National Park or Hood River Better for Resorts?

Sequoia National Park
Hood River

Sequoia National Park is a decent place to visit for its luxury resorts. However, Hood River is not a resort destination.

Not known for its high-end resorts, Sequoia National Park offers a few options. Wuksachi Lodge is the signature hotel option in the park.

Hood River is not a resort destination.

Is Sequoia National Park or Hood River Better for Hiking?

Sequoia National Park
Hood River

Sequoia National Park is an unbeatable place for its hiking trails. Also, Hood River is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its hiking experiences.

People visit Sequoia National Park specifically for its hiking, as the natural beauty is well-known. Hiking options range from day hiking to overnight backpacking. The hikes can be easy and accessible or more challenging, but whatever your style, you're sure to be amazed by this spectacular setting. The trails wander through high reaching trees or along steep canyons. Some of the most popular trails include Big Trees Trail, Crescent Meadow Loop Trail, Congress Trail, Tokopah Falls Trail, Hazelwood Nature Trail, Alta Peak Trail, and the High Sierra Trail to Bearpaw Meadow.

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around Hood River. There's a diversity of landscapes in the area that include waterfalls, agriculture, vineyards, and high-reaching mountain peaks. The best way to experience these is through the many hiking trails. Drive along the Historic Columbia River Highway and stop off at the trails that lead to the waterfalls, or head south of town to explore the vineyards on foot, and to the north where you'll find mountain peaks.

Is the Shopping Better in Sequoia National Park or Hood River?

Sequoia National Park
Hood River

Hood River is a town with good options for shopping. However, Sequoia National Park is lacking in good options for its shopping opportunities.

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Hood River. Local shops sell local produce, artisan crafts, and wine. There are boutiques and independent vendors that are fun to visit and many visitors enjoy spending an afternoon shopping.

If you're looking to go shopping, Sequoia National Park has some nice offerings. There are markets within the park.


Is Sequoia National Park or Hood River Better for Families?

Sequoia National Park
Hood River

Both Sequoia National Park and Hood River are excellent to visit with kids.

Sequoia National Park is a very family-friendly destination. Kids will enjoy driving through the tunnel log and gazing up at the impressive trees. It feels like a fairytale world where even adults can run around and embrace their inner child. There are also plenty of kid-friendly hikes.

Hood River is a very kid-friendly national park. The area is filled with outdoor adventures that the whole family can enjoy. There's swimming, tubing, hiking, and even windsurfing. Make sure you check out the Waterfront Park and Powerdale Substation.

Is Sequoia National Park or Hood River Better for Couples?

Sequoia National Park
Hood River

Both Sequoia National Park and Hood River are excellent destinations for a couple's getaway.

Sequoia National Park makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Couples who enjoy the outdoors, hiking, exploring, and camping will embrace the opportunity to visit the spectacular national park. There are beautiful romantic hikes and sunset views that will take your breath away.

Couples visit Hood River frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. Couples will enjoy the scenic natural setting and charming hotels and bed and breakfasts in the area. There are romantic hikes, local wineries, and many great restaurants that you can try.

Is Sequoia National Park or Hood River Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Sequoia National Park
Hood River

Sequoia National Park is an unbeatable place for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Hood River is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

With so many budget-friendly offerings, Sequoia National Park is extremely popular for backpackers. Backpacking through the park will let you experience places that most visitors don't make it to. This is the best way to truly enjoy the nature, serenity, and beauty of the park.

Hood River is a very popular national park for backpackers and budget travelers. There are a couple of hostels and some nice campgrounds in the area as well as many great hikes and a laid back atmosphere that backpackers appreciate.


Is Sequoia National Park or Hood River Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Sequoia National Park
Hood River

Visitors will find reasonable public transit in both Sequoia National Park and Hood River.

Public transit is mostly limited in Sequoia National Park. There is a shuttle service, but it's limited to the summer months and other peak travel times.

Public transit is generally limited in Hood River. There are buses in the area but you really need your own transportation to see the region efficiently.

Is Sequoia National Park or Hood River a more walkable city?

Sequoia National Park
Hood River

Sequoia National Park and Hood River are reasonable when it comes to walkability.

Sequoia National Park is generally not a very walkable national park. While there are countless hiking trails, you'll need a car to efficiently get around the park.

Hood River is generally not very walkable. While there are parts of the town that are walkable, if you don't have a car you'll miss out on the surrounding natural landscapes and most of the hiking opportunities.

For even more information, also check out Is Sequoia National Park Worth Visiting? and Is Hood River Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Hood River or Sequoia National Park?

How long in Sequoia National Park or Hood River?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Sequoia National Park and Hood River. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Sequoia National Park than in Hood River. Usually, 2-7 days is a good amount of time for Sequoia National Park, and 2-3 days is enough time in Hood River.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Sequoia National Park than Hood River 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 Sequoia National Park.


  • How many days in Sequoia National Park or Hood River? Ideal Length of Stay
    Sequoia National Park 2-7 
    Hood River 2-3

One day in Sequoia National Park or Hood River?

With around the breathtaking national park of Sequoia National Park, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. One of the main draws to the area is the hiking. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

In Hood River, you'll find food and shopping. 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 Sequoia National Park or Hood River?

With around the destination of Sequoia National Park, there's plenty to do. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. One of the main draws to the area is the hiking. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this national park.

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

Five days in Sequoia National Park or Hood River?

Sequoia National Park, a popular national park, is full of activities for travelers. This is a popular place to visit for five days. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. In five days, you should have a good grasp of this national park. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Hood River 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 Sequoia National Park or Hood River?

Sequoia National Park is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have one week, this national park makes for a great vacation. One of the main draws to the area is the hiking. One week should give you a good understanding of everything this national park has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

You'll find nightlife and food around the quaint destination of Hood River. 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 G Adventures Tours to United States of America, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Las Vegas, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Anchorage, and The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Los Angeles.


Which place is cheaper, Hood River or Sequoia National Park?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Sequoia National Park is $130, while the average daily cost in Hood River is $145. 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 Sequoia National Park and Hood River in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Sequoia National Park $64
    Hood River $78
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Sequoia National Park $128
    Hood River $156
Compare Hotels in Sequoia National Park and Hood River

Looking for a hotel in Sequoia National Park or Hood River? 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 Sequoia National Park


Hotels in Hood River


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.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Hood River Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Sequoia National Park $56
    Hood River $46

Is it cheaper to fly into Sequoia National Park or Hood River?

Prices for flights to both Hood River and Sequoia 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
    Sequoia National Park $31
    Hood River $40

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Sequoia National Park $31
    Hood River $18

Tours and Activities in Sequoia National Park

For Sequoia National Park, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • Semi Private Sequoia National Park Tour with lunch.: $299
  • Sequoia & Kings Canyon National Park Self-Driving Audio Tour: $17
  • Sequoia National Park Adventure from Tulare: $299
  • Sequoia and Kings Canyon Self Guided Audio Driving Tour: $15

Tours and Activities in Hood River

For Hood River, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • Gift Basket Factory Tour: $31
  • Orchard Tour: $31
  • Railbikes Experience: $211
  • Portland: Multnomah Falls Scenic Air Tour: $199

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Sequoia National Park $7.84
    Hood River $19


When comparing the travel costs between Sequoia National Park and Hood River, we can see that Hood River 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 Sequoia National Park Expensive? and Is Hood River Expensive?.