A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Zion National Park vs. Yellowstone National Park for Hiking, Backpackers, Resorts, and Families

Should you visit Zion National Park or Yellowstone National Park?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Zion National Park or Yellowstone National Park, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

Zion National Park

Zion National Park is a stunning, world-renowned, and breathtaking park. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. Other popular activities here include hiking.

Yellowstone National Park

Yellowstone National Park is a world-famous, popular, and immense national park. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. It's also known for hiking.

Zion National Park and Yellowstone National Park: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Zion National Park or Yellowstone National Park?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Zion National Park than Yellowstone National Park, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Zion National Park is better known for its museums, nightlife, and shopping, while Yellowstone National Park is more popular for its resorts. Zion National Park is well known for its iconic hiking trails, dramatic canyon, and world-class rock climbing. Also, Zion National Park is famous for Angels Landing. Yellowstone National Park is well known for its iconic geysers, breathtaking waterfalls, world-class hikes, and diverse wildlife.

How is Zion National Park different from Yellowstone National Park?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Zion National Park or Yellowstone National Park?

Zion National Park is a park with a few options for its museums and landmarks. However, Yellowstone National Park does not have museums and landmarks.

Zion National Park offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. The best museum in the area is the Zion Human History Museum.

Yellowstone National Park does not have museums and landmarks.

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

Both Zion National Park and Yellowstone National Park offer a number of respectable restaurants to choose from.

Zion National Park offers some easy restaurants to choose from. Within the park there are a couple of restaurants, but it's far better to bring your own food that you can enjoy as a picnic or meal by a campfire.

You'll find the standard options when it comes to food in Yellowstone National Park. 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 Zion National Park or Yellowstone National Park Better for Nightlife?

Zion National Park is not so good for its evening party scene. However, Yellowstone National Park is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Things get quiet in the evenings in Zion National Park. Stargazing and relaxing by a campfire is how most visitors enjoy the evening hours.

Yellowstone National Park is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Is Zion National Park or Yellowstone National Park Better for Resorts?

Yellowstone National Park is well known for its resorts. However, Zion National Park is not particularly known for its luxury 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.

Not known for its high-end resorts, Zion National Park offers a few options. There's a lodge within the park and many hotel options outside of the park.

Is Zion National Park or Yellowstone National Park Better for Hiking?

Zion National Park and Yellowstone National Park are both places where visitors can find fantastic hiking trails.

Known for its hiking, Zion National Park draws a crowd to experience the nature and the trails. This park is known for its iconic hikes, which include Angels Landing, the Narrows, and the Emerald Pools Trail. There are hikes that range from easy to incredibly difficult, and many visits see this destination as a bucket list hiking opportunity.

Around Yellowstone National Park visitors will find world-class hiking 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.

Is the Shopping Better in Zion National Park or Yellowstone National Park?

Zion National Park is not so good for its shopping areas. However, Yellowstone National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Zion National Park has some shopping areas for those that seek them out. There are park stores, but few other shopping opportunities in the area.

Yellowstone National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Zion National Park or Yellowstone National Park Better for Families?

Zion National Park and Yellowstone National Park are both very good destinations for the whole family.

Zion National Park is a very family-friendly place to visit. One of the most kid-friendly hikes is the Watchman Trail, which starts conveniently near the Visitor Center. Other favorites include the Lower Emerald Pool Trail, the Pa'rus Trail, and the Riverside Walk.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Yellowstone National Park is very family-friendly. 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 Zion National Park or Yellowstone National Park Better for Couples?

Zion National Park and Yellowstone National Park are both very good to visit as a couple.

Couples visit Zion National Park frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. There are world-class hiking trails, spectacular views, and many opportunities for a romantic moment in this well-known park. While the crowds can be intense, particularly during peak seasons, the park is large enough that you should be able to find a moment of solitude.

Yellowstone National Park is a great park if you're traveling as a couple. 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.

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

Zion National Park and Yellowstone National Park are fantastic places to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Zion National Park is a mecca for backpackers and budget travelers. This is a world-famous rock climbing, hiking, and backpacking destination. There are many opportunities for backcountry camping, but you are required to purchase a permit.

With so many budget-friendly offerings, Yellowstone National Park is extremely popular for backpackers. 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.

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

Zion National Park 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 Zion National Park, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are free shuttles that travel around the park. They operate during the most popular seasons but the service isn't available during most of the winter months.

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 Zion National Park or Yellowstone National Park a more walkable city?

Neither Zion National Park or Yellowstone National Park are walkable places.

Zion National Park is not a walkable park. The park is large, and most trailheads are spread out and require a vehicle to access.

Yellowstone National Park is not a very walkable 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 Zion National Park Worth Visiting? and Is Yellowstone National Park Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Yellowstone National Park or Zion National Park?

How long in Zion National Park or Yellowstone National Park?

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

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

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

One day in Zion National Park or Yellowstone National Park?

Visitors enjoy the when visiting the world-renowned park of Zion National Park. 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.

Visitors enjoy the when visiting the breathtaking destination of Yellowstone National Park. This national park offers something for everyone. Most people visit for the hiking. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Zion National Park or Yellowstone National Park?

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

Yellowstone National Park is a popular place to visit. Visitors enjoy the when visiting the stunning national park of Yellowstone National Park. Most people visit for the hiking. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything.

Five days in Zion National Park or Yellowstone National Park?

Zion National Park is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have five days, this park 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.

Visitors enjoy the when visiting the destination of Yellowstone National Park. This is a popular place to visit for five days. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Most people visit for the hiking. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Yellowstone National Park has to offer.

A week in Zion National Park or Yellowstone National Park?

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

Yellowstone 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. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. It offers something for everyone. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one week here.

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.

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

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