A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Yellowstone National Park vs. Beaver Creek for Hiking, Families, Backpackers, and Food

Should you visit Yellowstone National Park or Beaver Creek?

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

Should I visit Yellowstone National Park or Beaver Creek? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Yellowstone National Park

Yellowstone National Park is a breathtaking, vast, and world-famous national park. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. Other reasons to visit include hiking.

Beaver Creek

Beaver Creek is a adventurous, charming, and active town. Other popular activities here include hiking, shopping, and skiing.

Yellowstone National Park and Beaver Creek: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to Old Faithful
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for food
  • Public transit not as usable
  • Less walkable
Pros
  • Popular for skiing
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Good for hiking
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good public transit
  • Very walkable
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers


Is there more to do in Yellowstone National Park or Beaver Creek?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Beaver Creek than Yellowstone National Park, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Beaver Creek is better known for its skiing, theatre productions, food, nightlife, and shopping, while Yellowstone National Park is more popular for its resorts, hiking, and impressive beauty. Yellowstone National Park is well known for its iconic geysers, breathtaking waterfalls, world-class hikes, and diverse wildlife. Beaver Creek is well known for its skiing and charming atmosphere Also, Beaver Creek is famous for Beaver Creek Golf Club.

How is Yellowstone National Park different from Beaver Creek?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Yellowstone National Park or Beaver Creek Better for Skiing?

Yellowstone National Park
Beaver Creek

Beaver Creek is very popular for winter skiing. However, Yellowstone National Park is not a skiing destination.

If you're an avid snow skiier, Beaver Creek should be on your list. Beaver Creek Ski Resort is a top ski destination with 26 lifts and 149 different trails. It climbs to an elevation of 11,440 feet and the village is filled with ski-in/ski-out accommodation. There's also an excellent ski school.

Yellowstone National Park is not a skiing destination.


Is Yellowstone National Park or Beaver Creek Better for Theater?

Yellowstone National Park
Beaver Creek

Beaver Creek is not so good for its shows and theatre. However, Yellowstone National Park is not a theatre destination.

Beaver Creek has a few theater choices. There are a couple of art galleries around town.

Yellowstone National Park is not a theatre destination.

Is the Food Better in Yellowstone National Park or Beaver Creek? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Yellowstone National Park
Beaver Creek

Beaver Creek is well known for its restaurant scene. However, Yellowstone National Park is not particularly known for its local flavors and cuisine.

Dining out in Beaver Creek is an experience not to be missed. There are many great dining options where you can enjoy a meal after working up an appetite on the slopes. The cuisine has many mountain classics as well as fine dining and more casual restaurants.

Yellowstone National Park offers some easy restaurants to choose from. This is a large park and there are a number of dining options available both inside and just outside of the park. Many places are seasonal so your options will be highest during the summer months. Like most national park venues, prices can be high and the quality is variable. It's recommended that you pack your own food and plan to picnic.

Is Yellowstone National Park or Beaver Creek Better for Nightlife?

Yellowstone National Park
Beaver Creek

Beaver Creek is a town with a few options for its evening party scene. However, Yellowstone National Park is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Beaver Creek is generally a quiet destination but there are options around. You won't find a wild nightlife scene, but most of the activities center around the Vilar Performing Arts Center.

Yellowstone National Park is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.


Is Yellowstone National Park or Beaver Creek Better for Resorts?

Yellowstone National Park
Beaver Creek

Yellowstone National Park is a great national park for its luxury resorts. Also, Beaver Creek is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its resorts.

Yellowstone National Park is a popular resort destination that attracts visitors from everywhere. It is a large national park, and there are several impressive lodges nearby. Reservations are recommended well in advance. Within the park, Old Faithful Inn, Roosevelt Lodge, Lake Yellowstone Hotel, and Mammoth Hot Springs Hotel are all nice options.

With a selection of resorts, Beaver Creek makes a nice vacation spot. There are many resorts in the area including the Westin and the Hyatt.

Is Yellowstone National Park or Beaver Creek Better for Hiking?

Yellowstone National Park
Beaver Creek

Yellowstone National Park is a world-class destination for hiking. Also, Beaver Creek is not as popular, but is still a nice town for the nearby hiking options.

Known for its hiking, Yellowstone National Park draws a crowd to experience the nature and the trails. The park is huge, and there are countless hikes throughout. From short strolls to lengthy endeavors, there really is something for everyone. If you want to see the geysers, some of the best hikes are Grand Prismatic Overlook Trail, the Upper Geyser Basin and Old Faithful Observation Point Loop, and the Lone Star Geyser Trail. For waterfalls you can check out Brink of the Lower Falls Trail, the North Rim Trail, and Fairy Falls Trail.

Beaver Creek is a popular spot for hiking. The surrounding countryside is filled with trails that take you through flowered meadows, along scenic ridgelines, and to the top of dramatic peaks. During the warmer months, hiking is a wonderful way to enjoy the area.

Is the Shopping Better in Yellowstone National Park or Beaver Creek?

Yellowstone National Park
Beaver Creek

Beaver Creek is a popular place for its shopping areas. However, Yellowstone National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Many visitors go to Beaver Creek to go shopping. The village has pedestrian streets that are lined with fashion boutiques, jewelry stores, sporting equipment stores, and art galleries.

Yellowstone National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.


Is Yellowstone National Park or Beaver Creek Better for Families?

Yellowstone National Park
Beaver Creek

Beaver Creek is very popular for its family-friendly activities. Also, Yellowstone National Park is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

As it has a large number of activities for kids, Beaver Creek is a very family-friendly destination. This is one of the most kid-friendly ski resorts in the country. There's a ski and snowboard school where kids can enjoy private or group lessons as well as other fun activities for kids. There are also many family-friendly restaurants in the area.

Yellowstone National Park is a very family-friendly destination. Kids who enjoy the outdoors and exploring new environments will appreciate a visit to this park. The geysers are fascinating for everyone and the waterfalls are breathtaking. There are ranger shows and other activities that are great for kids as well. Make sure you stop by the Visitor's Centers.

Is Yellowstone National Park or Beaver Creek Better for Couples?

Yellowstone National Park
Beaver Creek

With fun activities for couples, both Yellowstone National Park and Beaver Creek make for a very good place to visit.

Couples visit Yellowstone National Park frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. This park is a beautiful and romantic destination for couples who enjoy the outdoors. There are world-renowned hikes and breathtaking views. There are also lodges in the area that make for a romantic stay.

Beaver Creek is a great national park if you're traveling as a couple. There are romantic resorts nearby as well as great adventure sports, skiing, snowboarding, and a beautiful setting.

Is Yellowstone National Park or Beaver Creek Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Yellowstone National Park
Beaver Creek

Yellowstone National Park is a world-class destination for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Beaver Creek is not known for backpackers.

Many backpackers frequent Yellowstone National Park. Backpackers will appreciate the campgrounds and affordable facilities that are found around the park. Reservations are recommended well in advance, particularly if you're hoping to stay inside the park.

Beaver Creek is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There aren't many facilities that cater to backpackers.


Is Yellowstone National Park or Beaver Creek Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Yellowstone National Park
Beaver Creek

Beaver Creek is a popular place for its public transit. However, Yellowstone National Park is not particularly known for times when you don't have a car.

You'll find some public transit in Beaver Creek, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There free transportation that's offered by Village Transportation.

Public transit is quite limited in Yellowstone National Park. There is no public transportation service available in the park. There are private tour options available.

Is Yellowstone National Park or Beaver Creek a more walkable city?

Yellowstone National Park
Beaver Creek

Beaver Creek is very popular for its ease of walking around. However, Yellowstone National Park is not particularly known for its walkability.

Getting around Beaver Creek on foot is easy. It's a quaint little village that is very walkable.

Yellowstone National Park is not a very walkable national park. This is among the largest national parks and a car is an absolute must if you hope to experience the different landscapes.

For even more information, also check out Is Yellowstone National Park Worth Visiting? and Is Beaver Creek Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Beaver Creek or Yellowstone National Park?

How long in Yellowstone National Park or Beaver Creek?

Both Yellowstone National Park and Beaver Creek have a number of activities to choose from. In our opinion, Beaver Creek has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Beaver Creek than Yellowstone National Park. In general, 5-7 days is a good amount of time for Yellowstone National Park, and 3-7 days is enough time in Beaver Creek.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Beaver Creek than Yellowstone 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 Beaver Creek.


  • How many days in Yellowstone National Park or Beaver Creek? Ideal Length of Stay
    Yellowstone National Park 5-7 
    Beaver Creek 3-7

One day in Yellowstone National Park or Beaver Creek?

In Yellowstone National Park, many people enjoy the that this stunning national park offers. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

Visitors enjoy the shopping and skiing when visiting the adventurous town of Beaver Creek. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.


A weekend in Yellowstone National Park or Beaver Creek?

Yellowstone National Park is a fun place to experience. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. Lots of people come for the hiking. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring.

Visitors enjoy the skiing and food when visiting the destination of Beaver Creek. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Most people visit for the skiing. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

Five days in Yellowstone National Park or Beaver Creek?

In Yellowstone National Park, many people enjoy the that this immense destination offers. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Plenty of people spend five days in the area when traveling. Lots of people come for the hiking. So, five days is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Beaver Creek is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have five days, this town makes for a great vacation. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Because of this, five days is usually enough time for a trip here. It offers something for everyone.

A week in Yellowstone National Park or Beaver Creek?

Yellowstone National Park is a popular place to visit. Many people spend one week here. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then one week is just the right amount of time to spend here. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Beaver Creek is a popular choice for travelers. One week here is typical. Most people visit for the skiing. One week is usually enough time to experience most activities. Your budget might influence how long you stay.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Los Angeles, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from New York City, The Best 2-Week Tours from New York City, and The Best 2-Week Tours from Anchorage.


Which place is cheaper, Beaver Creek or Yellowstone National Park?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Yellowstone National Park is $147, while the average daily cost in Beaver Creek is $316. 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 Yellowstone National Park and Beaver Creek in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Yellowstone National Park $74
    Beaver Creek $203
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Yellowstone National Park $148
    Beaver Creek $406
Compare Hotels in Yellowstone National Park and Beaver Creek

Looking for a hotel in Yellowstone National Park or Beaver Creek? 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 Yellowstone National Park


Hotels in Beaver Creek


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: Yellowstone National Park Hotel Prices and Beaver Creek Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Yellowstone National Park $37
    Beaver Creek $30

Is it cheaper to fly into Yellowstone National Park or Beaver Creek?

Prices for flights to both Beaver Creek and Yellowstone 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
    Yellowstone National Park $46
    Beaver Creek $85

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Yellowstone National Park $34
    Beaver Creek $53

Tours and Activities in Yellowstone National Park

Here are a few actual costs in Yellowstone National Park for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • West Thumb Geysers Self-Guided Walking Audio Tour: $9.99
  • 5-Day Winter Yellowstone Wildlife Tour: $3,349
  • 6-Mile Geyser Hiking Tour in Yellowstone with Lunch: $182
  • E-Bike Tours in Yellowstone National Park: $200
  • Early Morning Guided Kayak Tour: $125
  • Full-Day Guided Yellowstone Day Tour: $269
  • Grand Prismatic Self-Guided Walking Audio Tour: $9.99
  • Lake Yellowstone Half Day Kayak Tours Past Geothermal Features : $135
  • Lamar Valley Safari Hiking Tour with Lunch: $182
  • Self-Guided Grand Teton National Park Driving Tour: $8.99
  • Small-Group Sunset Kayaking Tour on Lake Yellowstone : $150
  • Yellowstone 3-day Tour Round-trip From Salt Lake City: $1,088

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Yellowstone National Park $19
    Beaver Creek $35


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

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Yellowstone National Park Expensive? and Is Beaver Creek Expensive?.