A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Boone vs. Denali National Park for Backpackers, Hiking, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Boone or Denali National Park?

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

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Boone and Denali National Park can help you decide which place is right for you.

Boone

Boone is a picturesque, charming, and relaxing town. With plenty of activities and sights, this is a small town worth visiting. The beauty of Boone is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Visitors also love the nightlife, food, and hiking. See Boone travel costs.

Denali National Park

Denali National Park is a epic, vast, and rugged park. Many visitors also come to Denali National Park because of it's amazing beauty. It's also popular because of the hiking. See Denali National Park travel costs.

Boone and Denali National Park: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular for skiing
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good for hiking
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for students
  • Very walkable
  • Small town charm
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to the Blue Ridge Parkway
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Nice resorts
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to Denali (Mount McKinley)
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular for shopping
  • Less walkable


Is there more to do in Boone or Denali National Park?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Boone. Although Boone and Denali National Park are both popular with visitors, Boone has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Boone is more popular for its skiing, museums and attractions, food, nightlife, hiking, shopping, and small town charm, while Denali National Park is known for its resorts and impressive beauty. Boone is popular for its proximity to great hiking, skiing, and small town charm. It is also home to the Blue Ridge Parkway. Denali National Park is popular for its vast wilderness and iconic Alaskan wildlife.

How is Boone different from Denali National Park?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Boone or Denali National Park Better for Skiing?

Boone
Denali National Park

Boone is a great town for skiing. However, Denali National Park is not a skiing destination.

Visitors travel far to experience snow skiing in Boone. It's a very popular ski destination in North Carolina. There are family-friendly slopes as well as more challenging options. Head to the popular Appalachian Ski Mountain, nearby Beech Mountain, or Sugar Mountain for some of the area's best skiing.

Denali National Park is not a skiing destination.


Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Boone or Denali National Park?

Boone
Denali National Park

Boone is very good for its historical sights. However, Denali National Park is not known for its sights and museums.

Boone offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. Most people spend the majority of their time exploring the natural beauty, but there are also several small local museums such as the Banner House Museum.

Denali National Park offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. Denali's Museum Collection includes more than 25,000 different items that reflect the region's history, culture, and geology.

Is the Food Better in Boone or Denali National Park? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Boone
Denali National Park

Boone is very good for its local flavors and cuisine. However, Denali National Park is not known for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Boone has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. You'll find farm to table restaurants, local cafes, and all of the standard chain restaurants nearby. Check for a High Country Grown certification if you want to prioritize locally sourced ingredients.

Denali National Park may not make the list for most foodies, but you'll find what you need while you're in town. During the summer months there are restaurants open along Highway 3 as well as the Morino Grill near the Denali Visitor Center.

Is Boone or Denali National Park Better for Nightlife?

Boone
Denali National Park

Boone is a great town for nightlife and partying. However, Denali National Park is not known for its evening party scene.

The nightlife in Boone has something for everybody. It's a small town, but there are local breweries and a great nightlife scene that is, in large part, influenced by the large student population.

People don't go to Denali National Park for the nightlife. Visitors come to the park to see the nature, not for the nightlife.


Is Boone or Denali National Park Better for Resorts?

Boone
Denali National Park

Denali National Park is very good for its luxury resorts. However, Boone is not a resort destination.

Denali National Park has a few great resort options. Most visitors stay nearby the Denali Park Entrance. It has the most affordable hotels and lodges, some of which have a lot of personality. Alternatively, you could stay in the more remote area of Kantishna. These lodges are more expensive and all-inclusive, but they are also far away from most conveniences.

Boone is not a resort destination.

Is Boone or Denali National Park Better for Hiking?

Boone
Denali National Park

Boone is a great town for hiking. Also, Denali National Park is not as popular, but is still a nice park for the nearby hiking options.

Many visitors go to Boone for the hiking trails. The area is filled with wonderful hikes, particularly around Grandfather Mountain and along the Blue Ridge Parkway. The famed Appalachian Trail passes through the area as well. Many hikes take you through beautiful forests, passed dramatic waterfalls, and to breathtaking viewpoints.

Denali National Park has hiking trails worth exploring. If you're looking for a marked trail, there are limited options within the park. Those that do exist are located near the park entrance and are usually just a couple of miles long. Off-trail hiking is what makes for the most memorable experience. Make sure you stop off at the visitor center for information and knowledge before you venture into the wilderness without a trail. For obvious reasons, you should fully understand what this entails before beginning your adventure.

Is the Shopping Better in Boone or Denali National Park?

Boone
Denali National Park

Boone is a great town for its shopping opportunities. However, Denali National Park is not known for its shopping areas.

Boone is well-known for its shopping. Wander along King Street for some of the town's best shopping. There are independent vendors and antique shops that are fun to pop into. The town is also known for its farmer's markets.

Denali National Park has some good spots for those that want to go shopping. There are several park stores and shops in and near the park where you can pick up gifts, books, and souvenirs.


Is Boone or Denali National Park More Beautiful?

Boone
Denali National Park

Denali National Park is an amazing park to visit for its scenery and beauty. Also, Boone is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its scenery and beauty.

Many visitors also come to Denali National Park because of it's amazing beauty. Home to the highest peak in North America, the park is famous for its dramatic beauty and rugged landscapes.

Boone is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. The surrounding area is filled with great natural beauty and wonderful hikes.

Is Boone or Denali National Park Better for Families?

Boone
Denali National Park

Boone is a great town for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Denali National Park is not as popular, but is still a nice park for its family-friendly activities.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Boone is very family-friendly. Near town you'll find kid-friendly hikes, such as Linville Falls. There are also several places where kids can go ziplining or rock climbing. Parks and outdoor activities are abundant and the whole family will enjoy the setting.

Denali National Park is a family-friendly place to visit. Most people visit the park as part of a tour, so it's important to book a tour that is designed with families in mind. This will help ensure the kids stay entertained even during long bus rides.

Is Boone or Denali National Park Better for Couples?

Boone
Denali National Park

Both Boone and Denali National Park are very good destinations to visit as a couple.

Boone is a great town if you're traveling as a couple. The charming town has a romantic setting with local restaurants, beautiful hikes, and plenty of shopping. Couples enjoy staying at bed and breakfasts and enjoying the quaint atmosphere.

Denali National Park is a very popular place to visit for couples. Couples who enjoy outdoor adventures and stunning scenery will find the ultimate romance in this impressive park.


Is Boone or Denali National Park Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Boone
Denali National Park

Denali National Park is an amazing park to visit for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Boone is not as popular, but is still a nice town for backpackers.

A large number of backpackers visit Denali National Park, as it is a very popular park for budget travelers. There are millions of acres in the park as well as campgrounds, hostels, and vast backcountry (which requires a permit).

It's common for backpackers to visit Boone. While there aren't many hostels in the area, there are plenty of campgrounds. The nearby Appalachian State University also ensures that there are plenty of fun activities for young visitors.

Is Boone or Denali National Park Better for Students?

Boone
Denali National Park

Boone is a must-visit destination for its student-friendly activities. However, Denali National Park is not popular with students.

Students come from all over the world to visit Boone. This mountain town offers a great setting for students who enjoy hiking and skiing. Appalachian State University is a fun college with plenty of activities going on.

Denali National Park is not popular with students.

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

Boone
Denali National Park

Boone and Denali National Park both offer decent public transit to get you around.

Public transit is mostly limited in Boone. You really need a car to make the most of your time.

Public transit is generally limited in Denali National Park. There are free shuttle buses that leave from the entrance area, but many visitors organize a tour to get around.


Is Boone or Denali National Park a more walkable city?

Boone
Denali National Park

Boone is a great town for its high level of walkability. However, Denali National Park is not known for its ease of walking around.

Boone is a very walkable town. Head to King Street for the best shopping and the most pedestrian-friendly part of town.

Denali National Park is not a walkable town. The park is vast and you need some form of transportation to get around, whether it's a private vehicle or a pre-arranged tour.

For even more information, also check out Is Boone Worth Visiting? and Is Denali National Park Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Denali National Park or Boone?

How long in Boone or Denali National Park?

It's fun to spend time in either Boone or Denali National Park. In our opinion, Boone has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Boone than Denali National Park. However, 2-4 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Boone than Denali 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 Boone.


  • How many days in Boone or Denali National Park? Ideal Length of Stay
    Boone 2-4 
    Denali National Park 2-4

One day in Boone or Denali National Park?

Boone is a small town where visitors enjoy the nightlife and food. 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.

In Denali National Park, many people enjoy the that this vast destination offers. This park offers a variety of activities to choose from. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

A weekend in Boone or Denali National Park?

Boone is a fun place to experience. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this town has to offer. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Denali National Park. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.


Five days in Boone or Denali National Park?

Many people visit Boone for five days. Boone is a small town, so you can explore the area with less time. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

Denali National Park is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the when visiting the destination of Denali National Park. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

A week in Boone or Denali National Park?

Because Boone is a small town, it's easy to explore in a short amount of time. Hikers are also drawn to this area. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

You'll find around the vast destination of Denali National Park. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Sightseeing Tours in United States of America, The Best Cruise Tours and Packages in United States of America, The Best Cultural Tours in United States of America, and The Best Photography Tours in United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Denali National Park or Boone?

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

  • Boone Prices
    USA Prices
    Denali National Park Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Boone $211
    Denali National Park $260

The average daily cost (per person) in Boone is $211, while the average daily cost in Denali National Park is $260. 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 Boone and Denali National Park in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Boone $91
    Denali National Park $116
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Boone $182
    Denali National Park $232
Compare Hotels in Boone and Denali National Park

Looking for a hotel in Boone or Denali 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 Boone


Hotels in Denali 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: Boone Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Boone $33
    Denali National Park $76

Is it cheaper to fly into Boone or Denali National Park?

Prices for flights to both Denali National Park and Boone 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
    Boone $91
    Denali National Park $98
Typical Food Prices in Boone

Here are some examples of typical meal expenses from previous travelers to Boone:


  • Restaurant Lunch for 2
    $20

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Boone $53
    Denali National Park $30

Tours and Activities in Denali National Park

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

  • 2.5-Hour Denali Wilderness ATV Adventure Tour: $135
  • 3 Hour Naturalist Walking Tour in Denali National Park: $139
  • 4 Hour Off-Trail Hiking Tour in Denali: $209
  • 5-Hour Mountain Hiking Tour in the Alaska Range - Denali Area: $199
  • Alaskan Back Country Side by Side ATV Adventure with Meal: $163
  • Classic ATV Adventure with Back Country Dining: $163
  • Denali 4 Hour Hiking Adventure with Naturalist Guide: $160
  • Denali 5 Hour Hiking Tour with Naturalist Guide: $182
  • Denali ATV Trailblazer 3.5 Hour Tour : $178
  • Denali Husky Kennel & Brewpub Visit – Half-Day Experience: $130
  • Denali Naturalist Walking Tour: $132
  • Denali Park Zipline Adventure: $190

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Boone $26
    Denali National Park $12


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

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