A Travel Price Comparison for California Sequoia National Park vs. Redwood National Park for Hiking, Backpackers, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Sequoia National Park or Redwood 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 Sequoia National Park and Redwood 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.

Sequoia National Park

Sequoia National Park is a impressive, magical, and breathtaking national park. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. Other popular activities here include hiking.

Redwood National Park

Redwood National Park is a grand, impressive, and monumental park. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Other reasons to visit include beaches and hiking.

Sequoia National Park and Redwood National Park: 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
Pros
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty


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

Visitors will usually find more to do in Sequoia National Park than Redwood National Park, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Sequoia National Park is better known for its museums, food, resorts, and shopping, while Redwood National Park is more popular for its beaches. Sequoia National Park is more touristy than Redwood National Park and is popular for its spectacularly large sequoia trees and its dramatic beauty. Also, Sequoia National Park is famous for the General Sherman tree. Redwood National Park is well known for being the home of the world's tallest trees.

How is Sequoia National Park different from Redwood National Park?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Sequoia National Park
Redwood National Park

Sequoia National Park is a national park with a few options for its museums and landmarks. However, Redwood National Park is not particularly known for its historical sights.

Sequoia National Park offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. The visitor centers have informational exhibits and there's also The Giant Forest Museum.

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

Sequoia National Park
Redwood National Park

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

Sequoia National Park may not make the list for most foodies, but you'll find what you need while you're in town. 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.

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 Sequoia National Park or Redwood National Park Better for Nightlife?

Sequoia National Park
Redwood National Park

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

Sequoia National Park doesn't offer many options. Nightlife is limited to stargazing and campfire chats.

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

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

Sequoia National Park
Redwood National Park

Sequoia National Park is a national park with a few options for its resorts. However, Redwood National Park is not a resort destination.

You might not think of Sequoia National Park as a resort destination, but it has a few places. Wuksachi Lodge is the signature hotel option in the park.

Redwood National Park is not a resort destination.


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

Sequoia National Park
Redwood National Park

Redwood National Park is a park with good options for its beaches. However, Sequoia National Park is not a beach destination.

Plenty of visitors enjoy relaxing on the beach in Redwood National Park. 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.

Sequoia National Park is not a beach destination.

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

Sequoia National Park
Redwood National Park

Both Sequoia National Park and Redwood National Park are destinations which offer fantastic hiking.

Around Sequoia National Park visitors will find world-class hiking trails. 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.

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.

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

Sequoia National Park
Redwood National Park

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

Sequoia National Park has some good spots for those that want to go shopping. There are markets within the park.

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 Sequoia National Park or Redwood National Park Better for Families?

Sequoia National Park
Redwood National Park

Both Sequoia National Park and Redwood National Park are very good 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.

Redwood National Park is a very kid-friendly national park. 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.

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

Sequoia National Park
Redwood National Park

Both Sequoia National Park and Redwood National Park are very good 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 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.

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

Sequoia National Park
Redwood National Park

Sequoia National Park and Redwood National Park are both fantastic destinations for backpackers.

Many backpackers frequent Sequoia National Park. 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.

Backpackers and budget travelers come from all over the world to visit Redwood National Park. 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.


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

Sequoia National Park
Redwood National Park

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

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

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

Sequoia National Park
Redwood National Park

Sequoia National Park is a national park with a few options for its ease of walking around. However, Redwood National Park is not particularly known for its walkability.

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

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

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

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

How long in Sequoia National Park or Redwood National Park?

In either Sequoia National Park or Redwood National Park, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Sequoia National Park than Redwood National Park because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 2-7 days is a good amount of time for Sequoia National Park, and 3-5 days is enough time in Redwood National Park.

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

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

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


  • How many days in Sequoia National Park or Redwood National Park? Ideal Length of Stay
    Sequoia National Park 2-7 
    Redwood National Park 3-5

One day in Sequoia National Park or Redwood National Park?

In Sequoia 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 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.


A weekend in Sequoia National Park or Redwood National Park?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Sequoia 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 national park. It offers something for everyone.

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.

Five days in Sequoia National Park or Redwood National Park?

Sequoia 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 national park. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

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.

A week in Sequoia National Park or Redwood National Park?

In Sequoia National Park, you'll find . It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. Plenty of people spend one week in the area when traveling. One week should give you a good understanding of everything this national park has to offer.

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.


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, Redwood National Park 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 Redwood National Park is $111. 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 Redwood National Park in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Sequoia National Park $64
    Redwood National Park $44
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Sequoia National Park $128
    Redwood National Park $88
Compare Hotels in Sequoia National Park and Redwood National Park

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


Hotels in Redwood 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.
    Sequoia National Park $56
    Redwood National Park $53

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

Prices for flights to both Redwood National Park 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
    Redwood National Park $33

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Sequoia National Park $31
    Redwood National Park $33

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:

  • Sequoia & Kings Canyon National Park Self-Driving Audio Tour: $17
  • Sequoia and Kings Canyon Self Guided Audio Driving Tour: $25
  • 5 Star Rated Sequoia National Park Tour: $298
  • Sequoia National Park Adventure from Tulare: $299
  • Semi-Private Sequoia Nat'l Park Tour with Delicious Picnic Lunch: $299

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Sequoia National Park $7.84
    Redwood National Park $11


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Sequoia National Park and Redwood National Park, we can see that Sequoia National Park is more expensive. And not only is Redwood National Park much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Redwood National Park would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Redwood 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 Sequoia National Park would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Sequoia National Park than you might in Redwood National Park.

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 Redwood National Park Expensive?.


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