A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Yosemite National Park vs. Bryce Canyon National Park for Hiking, Backpackers, Resorts, and Families

Should you visit Yosemite National Park or Bryce Canyon National Park?

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

Should I visit Yosemite National Park or Bryce Canyon National Park? 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.

Yosemite National Park

Yosemite National Park is a stunning, breathtaking, and popular national park. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. Visitors also love the hiking.

Bryce Canyon National Park

Bryce Canyon National Park is a breathtaking, spectacular, and other-worldly park. You'll find world class beauty here as well. Other popular activities here include hiking.

Yosemite National Park and Bryce Canyon 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 El Capitan
Pros
  • Good for hiking
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Not as many resort options


Is there more to do in Yosemite National Park or Bryce Canyon National Park?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Yosemite National Park. Although Yosemite National Park and Bryce Canyon National Park are both popular with visitors, Yosemite National Park has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Yosemite National Park is more popular for its resorts, while Bryce Canyon National Park is known for its museums, nightlife, and shopping. Yosemite National Park is popular for its stunning hikes, giant Sequoias, breathtaking vistas, and the granite cliffs of Half Dome. It is also home to El Capitan. Bryce Canyon National Park is popular for its striking hoodoos and grand natural amphitheaters.

How is Yosemite National Park different from Bryce Canyon National Park?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Yosemite National Park or Bryce Canyon National Park?

Yosemite National Park
Bryce Canyon National Park

Bryce Canyon National Park is not a good place to visit for its sights and museums. However, Yosemite National Park does not have museums and landmarks.

Bryce Canyon National Park offers a few options for museum-goers. While information is available at the visitor center, there are no real museums within the park.

Yosemite National Park does not have museums and landmarks.


Is the Food Better in Yosemite National Park or Bryce Canyon National Park? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Yosemite National Park
Bryce Canyon National Park

Foodies will find both Yosemite National Park and Bryce Canyon National Park both to be decent destinations.

Yosemite National Park may not make the list for most foodies, but you'll find what you need while you're in town. There are a few varied restaurants in the park that offer casual food or packaged meals that you can take away. The food is generally expensive and not always the best, so you'll likely enjoy packing your own picnic food to enjoy within the park.

Bryce Canyon National Park offers some easy restaurants to choose from. There are a couple of restaurants within the park. Just outside the park there are a number of options as well, including large buffets that cater to large tour groups and the tourist crowds. It's best to arrive early for these buffets.

Is Yosemite National Park or Bryce Canyon National Park Better for Nightlife?

Yosemite National Park
Bryce Canyon National Park

Bryce Canyon National Park is not a good place to visit for its evening party scene. However, Yosemite National Park is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

People don't go to Bryce Canyon National Park for the nightlife. There's no full service bar in town, so plan ahead if you want to have drinks.

Yosemite National Park is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Is Yosemite National Park or Bryce Canyon National Park Better for Resorts?

Yosemite National Park
Bryce Canyon National Park

Yosemite National Park is a great national park for its luxury resorts. However, Bryce Canyon National Park is not known for its resorts.

Vacationers can choose from a number of terrific resorts in Yosemite National Park. There are several grand hotels and lodges within the park. Reservations are a must, especially if you're traveling during peak seasons.

You might not think of Bryce Canyon National Park as a resort destination, but it has a few places. There's a lodge within the park and the hotels outside the park are mostly operated by Ruby's Inn and Bryce Canyon Resort.


Is Yosemite National Park or Bryce Canyon National Park Better for Hiking?

Yosemite National Park
Bryce Canyon National Park

If you're looking to go hiking, Yosemite National Park and Bryce Canyon National Park both have world-class trails.

People visit Yosemite National Park specifically for its hiking, as the natural beauty is well-known. This park has many famous hikes that take you by Half Dome, near Yosemite Falls, and through breathtaking landscapes. Popular hikes in the area include Mist Trail to Vernal Fall and Nevada Fall and Mirror Lake Trail.

Many people visit Bryce Canyon National Park specifically for its hiking. Hiking through the iconic hoodoos is a truly magical experience. There are shorter hikes such as the Mossy Cave Trail or the Sunset Point to Sunrise Point Trail. There are also more intense hikes and even a number of backcountry trails that will let you experience the park on a more personal level.

Is the Shopping Better in Yosemite National Park or Bryce Canyon National Park?

Yosemite National Park
Bryce Canyon National Park

Bryce Canyon National Park is a moderate park for its shopping areas. However, Yosemite National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Bryce Canyon National Park has some good spots for those that want to go shopping. There are shops and markets where you can pick up necessities. There are also a couple of gift shops.

Yosemite National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Yosemite National Park or Bryce Canyon National Park Better for Families?

Yosemite National Park
Bryce Canyon National Park

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Yosemite National Park or Bryce Canyon National Park.

Yosemite National Park is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. This park has many hikes, climbs, and activities that kids of all ages can enjoy. When the weather's warm the kids will enjoy getting wet in Merced River. They'll also be impressed by the giant sequoias and the beautiful waterfalls. In the evening the staff host ranger programs that are fun and educational for everyone. The park also has kid-friendly camping and lodges.

Bryce Canyon National Park is a very family-friendly destination. The kids will be as mesmerized as the adults with this spectacular park. There are great hikes for the whole family as well as horseback riding and ranger programs. For the best horseback riding experience, it's best to book your ride within the park. There are also private vendors that offer options outside the park.


Is Yosemite National Park or Bryce Canyon National Park Better for Couples?

Yosemite National Park
Bryce Canyon National Park

With fun activities for couples, both Yosemite National Park and Bryce Canyon National Park make for a great place to visit.

Yosemite National Park is a very popular place to visit for couples. Couples who enjoy nature, rock climbing, hiking, and being outside will enjoy a visit to this park. There is an endless supply of romantic views and fun-filled activities that are perfect for avid hikers or those looking for a more relaxing travel experience.

Bryce Canyon National Park makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. The spectacular sunset views make this a truly romantic destination. The colors and setting are surreal and the hikes are spectacular. Couples will find a range of accommodation options that include large resort hotels just outside the park and camping within the park.

Is Yosemite National Park or Bryce Canyon National Park Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Yosemite National Park
Bryce Canyon National Park

Both Yosemite National Park and Bryce Canyon National Park are world-class destinations for backpackers.

Yosemite National Park is a very popular national park to visit for backpackers. Campgrounds and back country trails make this area a backpacker's paradise.

Many backpackers frequent Bryce Canyon National Park. For most visitors, this park is a short stop, but for those who want to experience it in depth, there are many backcountry hikes that let you enjoy a very different side to the park. You'll need a permit, but the backcountry lets you enjoy a peaceful solitude that you won't find in the more touristy areas.

Is Yosemite National Park or Bryce Canyon National Park Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Yosemite National Park
Bryce Canyon National Park

Yosemite National Park is very good for times when you don't have a car. However, Bryce Canyon National Park is not known for its public transit.

While Yosemite National Park offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There is a free bus service that travels around Yosemite Valley.

Public transit is generally limited in Bryce Canyon National Park. The Bryce Canyon Shuttle travels to the most popular overlooks. It doesn't operate during the winter months.


Is Yosemite National Park or Bryce Canyon National Park a more walkable city?

Yosemite National Park
Bryce Canyon National Park

Yosemite National Park and Bryce Canyon National Park both are decent when exploring on foot.

Yosemite National Park is generally not very walkable. The park is large and a car is necessary to reach many places within the park.

Bryce Canyon National Park is generally not a very walkable national park. Most of the trails require a car to access. If you're staying outside the park, you'll also want a private vehicle.

For even more information, also check out Is Yosemite National Park Worth Visiting? and Is Bryce Canyon National Park Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Bryce Canyon National Park or Yosemite National Park?

How long in Yosemite National Park or Bryce Canyon National Park?

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Bryce Canyon National Park than Yosemite 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 Bryce Canyon National Park.


  • How many days in Yosemite National Park or Bryce Canyon National Park? Ideal Length of Stay
    Yosemite National Park 3-7 
    Bryce Canyon National Park 2-5

One day in Yosemite National Park or Bryce Canyon National Park?

In Yosemite National Park, many people enjoy the that this popular destination offers. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Lots of people come for the hiking. Hikers are also drawn to this area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

The park of Bryce Canyon National Park offers . Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Yosemite National Park or Bryce Canyon National Park?

In Yosemite National Park, many people enjoy the that this beautiful destination offers. It's also a relaxing resort destination. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything.

The other-worldly destination of Bryce Canyon National Park offers . This park offers something for everyone. It is common to spend a weekend here. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. It's no surprise that hiking is why people visit. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.


Five days in Yosemite National Park or Bryce Canyon National Park?

In Yosemite National Park, many people enjoy the that this breathtaking destination offers. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. This is a popular place to visit for five days.Five days is often enough time to do most activities. This national park offers something for everyone.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Bryce Canyon National Park. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. Hikers are also drawn to this area. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then five days is just the right amount of time to spend here. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

A week in Yosemite National Park or Bryce Canyon National Park?

In Yosemite National Park, many people enjoy the that this beautiful national park offers. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. If you have one week, this national park makes for a great vacation. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. Lots of people come for the hiking. Because of this, one week is usually enough time for a trip here.

Bryce Canyon National Park is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the when visiting the destination of Bryce Canyon National Park. It's no surprise that hiking is why people visit. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Luxury Tours to United States of America, The Best Tours for Seniors to United States of America, The Best Contiki Tours to United States of America, and The Best G Adventures Tours to United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Bryce Canyon National Park or Yosemite National Park?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Yosemite National Park is $129, while the average daily cost in Bryce Canyon National Park is $135. 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 Yosemite National Park and Bryce Canyon National Park in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Yosemite National Park $64
    Bryce Canyon National Park $67
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Yosemite National Park $128
    Bryce Canyon National Park $134
Compare Hotels in Yosemite National Park and Bryce Canyon National Park

Looking for a hotel in Yosemite National Park or Bryce Canyon 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 Yosemite National Park


Hotels in Bryce Canyon 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.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Yosemite National Park Hotel Prices and Bryce Canyon National Park Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Yosemite National Park $41
    Bryce Canyon National Park $56

Is it cheaper to fly into Yosemite National Park or Bryce Canyon National Park?

Prices for flights to both Bryce Canyon National Park and Yosemite 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
    Yosemite National Park $40
    Bryce Canyon National Park $33

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Yosemite National Park $19
    Bryce Canyon National Park $30

Tours and Activities in Yosemite National Park

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

  • Big Trees Hike & Riverside Cookout Adventure: $180
  • El Capitan, Yosemite: A Rock Climber's Odyssey - Private Tour: $300
  • Family Fun Private Half Day Fly Fishing Adventure: $215
  • Full-Day Small Group Yosemite & Glacier Point Tour Including Hotel Pickup: $169
  • Private Guided Hiking Tour in Yosemite: $293
  • Semi Private Yosemite Tour with Ahwahnee Lunch and Hotel Pickup: $250
  • Yosemite Full Day Small Group High Country / Mariposa Tour: $299
  • Yosemite Highlights Small Group Tour: $200
  • Yosemite National Park Audio Driving Tour: $14
  • Yosemite Panorama Trail Self-Guided Audio Tour: $15
  • Yosemite Self-Guided Audio Tour: $14
  • Yosemite Valley & Glacier Point Adaptive Tour: $180

Tours and Activities in Bryce Canyon National Park

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Bryce Canyon National Park.

  • Full-Day Private Scenic Byway 12 Audio Driving Tour : $8.99
  • The Beauty of Full-Day Audio Driving Private Tour: $8.99
  • Bryce Canyon National Park Self-Guided Driving Audio Tour: $17
  • Zion and Bryce Canyon National Parks Self-Driving Bundle Tour : $25
  • Scenic Tour of Bryce Canyon: $69
  • Ruby's Horseback Adventures Utah 1.5 Hour Ride: $80
  • Bryce Canyon E-bike Tour : $95
  • Horseback Riding Experience through Red Canyon with a Guide: $105
  • Ruby's Horseback Adventures Utah Half Day Ride: $110
  • Hiking Experience in Bryce Canyon National Park: $120
  • Ruby's Horseback Adventures Utah Thunder Mt. 4 Hour Ride: $120
  • Peekaboo, Spooky and Dry Fork Slot Canyon Tour: $139

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Yosemite National Park $11
    Bryce Canyon National Park $6.78


When comparing the travel costs between Yosemite National Park and Bryce Canyon National Park, we can see that Bryce Canyon 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 Yosemite National Park Expensive? and Is Bryce Canyon National Park Expensive?.