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

Should you visit Adirondack Mountains or Zion National Park?

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

Should I visit Adirondack Mountains or Zion 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.

Adirondack Mountains

Adirondack Mountains is a scenic, serene, and pristine region. Adirondack Mountains is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for skiing, nightlife, and food. See Adirondack Mountains travel costs.

Zion National Park

Zion National Park is a breathtaking, stunning, and world-renowned park. You'll find world class beauty in Zion National Park as well. And you can't forget about the hiking. See Zion National Park travel costs.

Adirondack Mountains and Zion National Park: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular for skiing
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • Good for hiking
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Public transit not as usable
Pros
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good public transit
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to Angels Landing
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Not as many resort options
  • Less popular for shopping


Is there more to do in Adirondack Mountains or Zion National Park?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Zion National Park. Although Adirondack Mountains and Zion National Park are popular destinations, Zion National Park has more sights and attractions for tourists. Zion National Park is very popular for its hiking and impressive beauty, while Adirondack Mountains attracts visitors for its skiing, museums and attractions, food, nightlife, resorts, and shopping. Zion National Park is more touristy than Adirondack Mountains and is known for its iconic hiking trails, dramatic canyon, and world-class rock climbing. It is also well known for Angels Landing. Adirondack Mountains is famous for its miles of hiking trails, beautiful lakes, and pristine forests.

How is Adirondack Mountains different from Zion National Park?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Adirondack Mountains or Zion National Park Better for Skiing?

Adirondack Mountains
Zion National Park

Adirondack Mountains is a nice place to visit for winter skiing. However, Zion National Park is not a skiing destination.

Adirondack Mountains is a great destination for skiing with plenty areas to explore. There are a number of ski resorts in the area with some of the most popular being Whiteface, Titus Mountain, and Oak Mountain.

Zion National Park is not a skiing destination.


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

Adirondack Mountains
Zion National Park

Adirondack Mountains is a nice place to visit for its museums and landmarks. However, Zion National Park is not particularly known for its historical sights.

Adirondack Mountains is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. You can learn about local culture and heritage at any of the museums in the area. At the Adirondack Experience you can visit a vast campus that offers an open-air experience relating to the region's history. Other educational centers in the area include a wildlife center, several art museums, as well as battlefields, forts, and war museums.

While most people don't head to Zion National Park specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. The best museum in the area is the Zion Human History Museum.

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

Adirondack Mountains
Zion National Park

Adirondack Mountains is a nice place to visit for its restaurant scene. However, Zion National Park is not particularly known for its local flavors and cuisine.

Adirondack Mountains offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. Steakhouses, pancake shops, and local diners all serve up fresh and local dishes. Many visitors like to pack a picnic that they can enjoy along a hiking trail, but if you're looking for a sit down option, there are also plenty of restaurants to choose from.

You'll find the standard options when it comes to food in Zion National Park. 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.

Is Adirondack Mountains or Zion National Park Better for Nightlife?

Adirondack Mountains
Zion National Park

Adirondack Mountains is a nice place to visit for nightlife. However, Zion National Park is not particularly known for nightlife and partying.

Adirondack Mountains has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. There are laid back bars and pubs in the area, but for the best nightlife scene, head to Lake Placid.

The nightlife scene is quiet in Zion National Park Stargazing and relaxing by a campfire is how most visitors enjoy the evening hours.


Is Adirondack Mountains or Zion National Park Better for Resorts?

Adirondack Mountains
Zion National Park

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

Adirondack Mountains is a popular resort destination that attracts visitors from everywhere. Lodges and inns fill with vacationers who enjoy the pools and scenic settings that many of the resorts offer. Many places have a summer camp atmosphere that feels both wholesome and adventurous.

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 Adirondack Mountains or Zion National Park Better for Hiking?

Adirondack Mountains
Zion National Park

Zion National Park is an amazing park to visit for the nearby hiking options. Also, Adirondack Mountains is not as famous, but is still a good region to visit for its hiking trails.

People visit Zion National Park specifically for its hiking, as the natural beauty is well-known. 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.

Many visitors explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting Adirondack Mountains. Trails range from easy to challenging and each passes through beautiful and diverse landscapes. You can climb to scenic viewpoints or explore pristine forests. It's the perfect way to escape into nature for a bit.

Is the Shopping Better in Adirondack Mountains or Zion National Park?

Adirondack Mountains
Zion National Park

Adirondack Mountains is a nice place to visit for shopping. However, Zion National Park is not particularly known for its shopping opportunities.

Adirondack Mountains is a great destination for shopping. Many of the towns have a "general store" where you can pick up souvenirs or local items. There are also local artisan shops and even outlet malls in the area.

Shopping in Zion National Park can be found for those interested. There are park stores, but few other shopping opportunities in the area.


Is Adirondack Mountains or Zion National Park More Beautiful?

Adirondack Mountains
Zion National Park

Zion National Park is an amazing park to visit for its scenery and beauty. Also, Adirondack Mountains is not as famous, but is still a good region to visit for its scenery and beauty.

You'll find world class beauty in Zion National Park as well. This park will have you feeling as if you're in a painting. There are spectacular views and a stunning natural beauty that will take your breath away.

With stunning beauty, Adirondack Mountains attracts visitors from all around. Beautiful lakes and waterfalls, serene settings, and striking viewpoints make this a beautiful destination where you can escape into nature.

Is Adirondack Mountains or Zion National Park Better for Families?

Adirondack Mountains
Zion National Park

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Adirondack Mountains or Zion National Park.

Adirondack Mountains is a very kid-friendly region. There area is filled with ropes courses, adventure parks, and hiking trails. There are nature centers with information programs for young ones. The kids will also be a enchanted by the waterfalls as the adults are.

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

Is Adirondack Mountains or Zion National Park Better for Couples?

Adirondack Mountains
Zion National Park

With fun activities for couples, both Adirondack Mountains and Zion National Park make for a very good place to visit.

Adirondack Mountains is a very popular place to visit for couples. There are many lodges and inns that are tucked away in the mountains and make for a romantic retreat. Couples will enjoy the hiking and beautiful views. Whether you spend your time cozied up by the fire or out on an adventure, this is a wonderful romantic destination.

Zion National Park makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. 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.


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

Adirondack Mountains
Zion National Park

Zion National Park is an amazing park to visit for backpackers. Also, Adirondack Mountains is not as famous, but is still a good region to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

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

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers visit Adirondack Mountains. There are a number of campgrounds and even backcountry camping in the region. The hiking trails and beautiful setting make this a fun place to explore.

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

Adirondack Mountains
Zion National Park

Zion National Park is a popular place for its public transit. However, Adirondack Mountains is a mediocre region for times when you don't have a car.

Zion National Park has a few public transit options. 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 Adirondack Mountains. There is no real public transportation in the park.

Is Adirondack Mountains or Zion National Park a more walkable city?

Adirondack Mountains
Zion National Park

Neither Adirondack Mountains or Zion National Park are walkable places.

Adirondack Mountains is not a walkable region. While there are many hiking trails, to get around and access most destinations, you'll need a car.

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


For even more information, also check out Is Adirondack Mountains Worth Visiting? and Is Zion National Park Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Zion National Park or Adirondack Mountains?

How long in Adirondack Mountains or Zion National Park?

Both Adirondack Mountains and Zion National Park have a number of activities to choose from. In our opinion, Adirondack Mountains has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Adirondack Mountains than Zion National Park. However, 3-7 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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

Couples should spend more time in Adirondack Mountains than Zion National Park. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Adirondack Mountains 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 Adirondack Mountains 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.


  • How many days in Adirondack Mountains or Zion National Park? Ideal Length of Stay
    Adirondack Mountains 3-7 
    Zion National Park 3-7

One day in Adirondack Mountains or Zion National Park?

Visitors enjoy the museums and skiing when visiting the pristine destination of Adirondack Mountains. This region offers something for everyone. 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.

Many travelers enjoy the when visiting the beautiful destination of Zion National Park. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

A weekend in Adirondack Mountains or Zion National Park?

Adirondack Mountains is a popular place to visit. Visitors enjoy the skiing and nightlife when visiting the serene region of Adirondack Mountains. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything.

Zion National Park is a fun place to experience. 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 a weekend exploring. This park offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Adirondack Mountains or Zion National Park?

Visitors enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the destination of Adirondack Mountains. 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. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Adirondack Mountains has to offer.

Many people visit Zion National Park for five days. Many travelers enjoy the when visiting the beautiful park of Zion National Park. Don't miss the hiking, as that's what most people do. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this park has to offer.


A week in Adirondack Mountains or Zion National Park?

Adirondack Mountains is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have one week, this region 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.

Many travelers enjoy the when visiting the world-renowned destination of Zion National Park. Many people spend one week here. Hikers are also drawn to this area. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. Don't miss the hiking, as that's what most people do. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Zion National Park, one week is sufficent for most.


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


Which place is cheaper, Zion National Park or Adirondack Mountains?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations. These travel costs come from the actual spending of real travelers.

  • Adirondack Mountains Prices
    USA Prices
    Zion National Park Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Adirondack Mountains $202
    Zion National Park $146

The average daily cost (per person) in Adirondack Mountains is $202, while the average daily cost in Zion National Park is $146. 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 Adirondack Mountains and Zion National Park in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Adirondack Mountains $97
    Zion National Park $60
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Adirondack Mountains $194
    Zion National Park $120
Compare Hotels in Adirondack Mountains and Zion National Park

Looking for a hotel in Adirondack Mountains or Zion 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 Adirondack Mountains


Hotels in Zion 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: Zion National Park Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Adirondack Mountains $33
    Zion National Park $30

Is it cheaper to fly into Adirondack Mountains or Zion National Park?

Prices for flights to both Zion National Park and Adirondack Mountains 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
    Adirondack Mountains $85
    Zion National Park $64

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Adirondack Mountains $17
    Zion National Park $26

Tours and Activities in Zion National Park

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

  • East Zion Dark Sky Stargazing Tour: $22
  • Zion Canyon Hot Springs Soak Experience: $36
  • East Zion East Rim Jeep Tour: $58
  • Zion Sunset Jeep Tour: $81
  • Harry Potter's Zion Ghost Tour: $85
  • Virgin: Zion National Park Off-Road Vehicle Tour & Hike: $89
  • From Virgin: Zion Night Sky Jeep Tour with a Telescope: $100
  • Peekaboo Slot Canyon Jeep Tour: $104
  • Award Winning UTV Slot Canyon Tour: $105
  • East Zion Brushy Cove Jeep Tour: $117
  • East Zion 2.5 Hour Slot Canyon Canyoneering UTV Tour: $119
  • Private Photographers Choice Slot Canyon Tour: $125

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Adirondack Mountains $19
    Zion National Park $8.28


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Adirondack Mountains and Zion National Park, we can see that Adirondack Mountains 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 Adirondack Mountains would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Adirondack Mountains 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 Adirondack Mountains Expensive? and Is Zion National Park Expensive?.