A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Sequoia National Park vs. Salt Lake City for Hiking, Backpackers, Attractions, and Families

Should you visit Sequoia National Park or Salt Lake City?

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 Salt Lake City 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. It's also popular because of the hiking.

Salt Lake City

Salt Lake City is a religious, architectural, and notable city. Other reasons to visit include food, scuba diving and snorkeling, and hiking.

Sequoia National Park and Salt Lake City: 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
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Home to Temple Square
Things to Consider
  • Less hiking options
  • Less popular with backpackers


Is there more to do in Sequoia National Park or Salt Lake City?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Sequoia National Park than Salt Lake City, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Sequoia National Park is better known for its resorts, hiking, and impressive beauty, while Salt Lake City is more popular for its museums, food, nightlife, scuba diving & snorkeling, and shopping. Sequoia National Park is more touristy than Salt Lake City and is known for its spectacularly large sequoia trees and its dramatic beauty. Also, Sequoia National Park is famous for the General Sherman tree. Salt Lake City is well known for its religious landmarks and its large Mormon population.

How is Sequoia National Park different from Salt Lake City?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Salt Lake City 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 Salt Lake City?

Sequoia National Park
Salt Lake City

Salt Lake City is a very popular place for its museums and history. However, Sequoia National Park is lacking in good options for its museums and landmarks.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Salt Lake City. Many of the fascinating sights around town are influenced by the city's Mormon culture. Temple Square is a highlight for most visitors. It spans 35 acres and is beautifully landscaped with several fountains. There are also four main churches - The Temple, the Tabernacle, the Temple Annex, and Assembly Hall. The city also has several museums such as the Natural History Museum and the historic Liberty Park.

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.


Is the Food Better in Sequoia National Park or Salt Lake City? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Sequoia National Park
Salt Lake City

Salt Lake City is a city with good options for its restaurants. However, Sequoia National Park is lacking in good options for its restaurant scene.

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around Salt Lake City. In recent years the food scene has really improved and you'll find a variety of restaurants that serve everything from upscale dishes to more casual fare.

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 Salt Lake City Better for Nightlife?

Sequoia National Park
Salt Lake City

Salt Lake City is a decent place to visit for nightlife. However, Sequoia National Park is lacking in good options for nightlife and partying.

Those looking for nightlife will find a few places to hang out in Salt Lake City. Known for its large Mormon population, nightlife isn't the first thing that comes to mind when you think about Salt Lake City. While it will likely never be a party city, there are a growing number of entertainment options around town.

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

Is Sequoia National Park or Salt Lake City Better for Resorts?

Sequoia National Park
Salt Lake City

Sequoia National Park is a decent place to visit for its luxury resorts. However, Salt Lake City 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.

Salt Lake City is not a resort destination.


Is Sequoia National Park or Salt Lake City Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Sequoia National Park
Salt Lake City

Salt Lake City is a city with good options for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Sequoia National Park is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

It's fun to get in the water and check out the local marine life in Salt Lake City. There are a number of good ski resorts nearby, making this a good base or starting point for a ski vacation.

Sequoia National Park is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Sequoia National Park or Salt Lake City Better for Hiking?

Sequoia National Park
Salt Lake City

Sequoia National Park is a world-class destination for its hiking trails. Also, Salt Lake City is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its hiking experiences.

Many people visit Sequoia National Park specifically for its hiking. 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.

Salt Lake City has hiking trails worth exploring. The city offers easy access to many diverse trails, so if you're a nature enthusiasts, you'll appreciate this destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Sequoia National Park or Salt Lake City?

Sequoia National Park
Salt Lake City

Salt Lake City is a city 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 Salt Lake City. The city has sprawling outlet malls as well as local stores and craft shops. City Creek Center is a favorite shopping destination, but there are also several large shopping malls that are worth visiting.

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 Salt Lake City Better for Families?

Sequoia National Park
Salt Lake City

Sequoia National Park is a very popular place for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Salt Lake City is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Sequoia National Park. 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.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Salt Lake City. There are museums that kids will enjoy like the Natural History Museum of Utah and the Leonardo Museum. There are also fun-filled activities like a visit to Lagoon Amusement Park. You can learn about history at This Is the Place Heritage Park or learn about the undersea world at Loveland Living Planet Aquarium.

Is Sequoia National Park or Salt Lake City Better for Couples?

Sequoia National Park
Salt Lake City

Sequoia National Park is a very popular place for couples. Also, Salt Lake City is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for romance.

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.

Salt Lake City is a nice destination for couples. The city is filled with beautiful gardens like Red Butte Garden. There are also nice restaurants and romantic hotels that will make this a nice place for a couple's getaway.

Is Sequoia National Park or Salt Lake City Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Sequoia National Park
Salt Lake City

Sequoia National Park is a world-class destination for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Salt Lake City is lacking in good options for backpackers.

A large number of backpackers visit Sequoia National Park, as it is a very popular national park for budget travelers. 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.

Salt Lake City is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There are a couple of hostels in town, but most backpackers overlook this destination or breeze through town quickly.


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

Sequoia National Park
Salt Lake City

Salt Lake City is a city with good options for times when you don't have a car. However, Sequoia National Park is lacking in good options for its public transit.

Salt Lake City has some public transit options. There's a surprisingly good public transit system that includes light rail, buses, and commuter trains, but if you want to get out of town you'll need to 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.

Is Sequoia National Park or Salt Lake City a more walkable city?

Sequoia National Park
Salt Lake City

Sequoia National Park and Salt Lake City are respectable 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.

Salt Lake City is generally not very walkable. While some neighborhoods are walkable, like Temple Square, most visitors prefer to have a car.

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

Should I spend more time in Salt Lake City or Sequoia National Park?

How long in Sequoia National Park or Salt Lake City?

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

Families should spend more time in Sequoia National Park than Salt Lake City. 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.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Salt Lake City than Sequoia 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 Salt Lake City.


  • How many days in Sequoia National Park or Salt Lake City? Ideal Length of Stay
    Sequoia National Park 2-7 
    Salt Lake City 2-3

One day in Sequoia National Park or Salt Lake City?

In Sequoia National Park, you'll find . Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

In Salt Lake City, you'll find shopping and museums. 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 Salt Lake City?

Sequoia National Park is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Because of this, a weekend is usually enough time for a trip here.

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

Five days in Sequoia National Park or Salt Lake City?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Sequoia National Park. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. It offers something for everyone. One reason most visitors come is for the hiking. Because of this, five days is usually enough time for a trip here.

Salt Lake City is a fun place to experience. 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 Salt Lake City?

In Sequoia National Park, you'll find . Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. Your budget might influence how long you stay. If you have one week, this is a great place to go. One reason most visitors come is for the hiking. One week is usually enough time to experience most activities.

You'll find scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping around the religious destination of Salt Lake City. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. 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, Salt Lake City 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 Salt Lake City is $246. 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 Salt Lake City in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Sequoia National Park $64
    Salt Lake City $119
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Sequoia National Park $128
    Salt Lake City $238
Compare Hotels in Sequoia National Park and Salt Lake City

Looking for a hotel in Sequoia National Park or Salt Lake City? 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 Salt Lake City


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: Salt Lake City Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Sequoia National Park $56
    Salt Lake City $45

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Salt Lake City

Also for Salt Lake City, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Salt Lake City to Salt Lake City Airport (SLC) - Departure Private Transfer: $46
  • Salt Lake City Airport (SLC): Transfer to Salt Lake City: $201
  • Salt Lake City Airport (SLC) to Salt Lake City - Arrival Private Transfer: $46
  • Salt Lake City Airport (SLC) to Park City UT - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $181
  • Salt Lake City Airport (SLC) to Park City - Arrival Private Transfer : $91
  • Salt Lake Airport (SLC) to Canyons Village - Round-Trip Transfer: $229
  • Salt Lake Airport (SLC) to Canyons Village - Arrival Transfer: $115
  • Private Transfer: Salt Lake City to Salt Lake City International Airport (SLC) : $107
  • Private Transfer: Salt Lake City International Airport (SLC) to Salt Lake City : $107
  • Private Transfer from Salt Lake City Airport (SLC) to Salt Lake City : $120
  • Private Transfer from Salt Lake City Airport (SLC) to Park City hotel or address: $261
  • Private Transfer from SLC to Salt Lake City : $120

Is it cheaper to fly into Sequoia National Park or Salt Lake City?

Prices for flights to both Salt Lake City 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
    Salt Lake City $50

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Sequoia National Park $31
    Salt Lake City $28

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 Salt Lake City

For Salt Lake City, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • 2 Hour Salt Lake Boat Tour with Swimming on the Lake: $79
  • 4-Day Winter Yellowstone Tour: $2,499
  • 45 Minute Great Salt Lake Boat Tour: $37
  • 5-day Tour Yellowstone Park Los Angeles-Salt Lake City: $1,558
  • From 3-Day Yellowstone Wildlife Adventure: $999
  • From Private Bryce Canyon National Park Tour: $1,475
  • From Private Canyonlands National Park Tour: $1,475
  • From Private Capitol Reef National Park Tour: $1,475
  • From Private Goblin Valley State Park Tour: $1,475
  • From Private Tour of Arches National Park: $1,475
  • Great Salt Lake Flying Tour: $249
  • Great Salt Lake Guided Bus Tour from Salt Lake City: $70

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Sequoia National Park $7.84
    Salt Lake City $17


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


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