A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Chimney Rock and Lake Lure vs. Yosemite National Park for Hiking, Backpackers, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Chimney Rock and Lake Lure or Yosemite National Park?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Chimney Rock and Lake Lure and Yosemite National Park can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is a active, beautiful, and peaceful recreation area. Chimney Rock and Lake Lure offers plenty of beauty for visitors. Other popular activities here include hiking. See Chimney Rock and Lake Lure travel costs.

Yosemite National Park

Yosemite National Park is a world-famous, stunning, and breathtaking national park. The famous beauty of Yosemite National Park is one of the main draws. Other popular activities here include hiking. See Yosemite National Park travel costs.

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure and Yosemite National Park: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Good for hiking
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less charming
  • Public transit not as usable
Pros
  • Nice resorts
  • Good for hiking
  • Known for its beauty
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good public transit
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to El Capitan
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife


Is there more to do in Chimney Rock and Lake Lure or Yosemite National Park?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Yosemite National Park. Although Chimney Rock and Lake Lure and Yosemite National Park are popular destinations, Yosemite National Park has more sights and attractions for tourists. Yosemite National Park is very popular for its resorts, hiking, and impressive beauty, while Chimney Rock and Lake Lure attracts visitors for its museums and attractions and shopping. Yosemite National Park is more touristy than Chimney Rock and Lake Lure and is known for its stunning hikes, giant Sequoias, breathtaking vistas, and the granite cliffs of Half Dome. It is also well known for El Capitan. Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is famous for its beautiful views and fun outdoor activities.

How is Chimney Rock and Lake Lure different from Yosemite National Park?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Chimney Rock and Lake Lure or Yosemite National Park?

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure
Yosemite National Park

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is a moderate recreation area for its sights and museums. However, Yosemite National Park does not have museums and landmarks.

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. There's a museum in Chimney Rock State Park, but most visitors spend their time taking advantage of the outdoor activities.

Yosemite National Park does not have museums and landmarks.


Is the Food Better in Chimney Rock and Lake Lure or Yosemite National Park? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure
Yosemite National Park

Picking the best cuisine and restaurants between Chimney Rock and Lake Lure and Yosemite National Park can be difficult as they are each reasonable in their own way.

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure may not make the list for most foodies, but you'll find what you need while you're in town. Within Chimney Rock Park there's a deli and a cafe. Nearby you'll also find casual eateries with pizza or classic American dishes.

Yosemite National Park offers some easy restaurants to choose from. 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.

Is Chimney Rock and Lake Lure or Yosemite National Park Better for Nightlife?

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure
Yosemite National Park

It's hard to distinguish whether Chimney Rock and Lake Lure or Yosemite National Park has a better nightlife scene.

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is generally a quiet destination but there are options around. Most people head into nearby Asheville for the best nightlife.

Yosemite National Park doesn't have the most active nightlife scene. There are some bars near the park that make a nice spot to grab a drink.

Is Chimney Rock and Lake Lure or Yosemite National Park Better for Resorts?

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure
Yosemite National Park

Yosemite National Park is a great destination for its resorts. However, Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is not a resort destination.

In Yosemite National Park, you'll find some of the region's top resorts. There are several grand hotels and lodges within the park. Reservations are a must, especially if you're traveling during peak seasons.

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is not a resort destination.


Is Chimney Rock and Lake Lure or Yosemite National Park Better for Hiking?

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure
Yosemite National Park

Yosemite National Park is an amazing national park to visit for its hiking experiences. Also, Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is still popular, but not quite as popular for hiking.

Around Yosemite National Park visitors will find world-class hiking trails. 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 visitors go to Chimney Rock and Lake Lure for the hiking trails. One of the most popular trails in Chimney Rock State Park is The Exclamation Point Trail , which leads to many viewpoints. During the summer and fall seasons the trail can get very crowded. The obvious highlight in the park is Chimney Rock, which is a rock outcropping that offers spectacular views.

Is the Shopping Better in Chimney Rock and Lake Lure or Yosemite National Park?

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure
Yosemite National Park

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is a moderate recreation area for its shopping areas. However, Yosemite National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure has some good spots for those that want to go shopping. You'll find the standard shopping centers in the area, but for the best shopping, head over to Asheville.

Yosemite National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Chimney Rock and Lake Lure or Yosemite National Park More Beautiful?

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure
Yosemite National Park

Yosemite National Park is an amazing national park to visit for its scenery and beauty. Also, Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is still popular, but not quite as popular for its scenery and beauty.

The famous beauty of Yosemite National Park is one of the main draws. This park has a sense of natural beauty that's hard to find anywhere else in the world. The breathtaking landscapes, surreal waterfalls, and stunning granite rock formations are unlike any other park or setting.

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is a gorgeous place to visit. From the top of Chimney Rock there's an impressive view point. The area is also filled with natural beauty and peaceful settings.


Is Chimney Rock and Lake Lure or Yosemite National Park Better for Families?

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure
Yosemite National Park

Both Chimney Rock and Lake Lure and Yosemite National Park are excellent to visit with kids.

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. There are plenty of outdoor activities in the area. Head to sliding rock for a fun afternoon. There's also tubing, kayaking, and river rafting nearby. Horseback riding is a fun way to explore a trail, or simply hiking on one of the many paths in the area. You'll also find ziplining and plenty of water activities at the lake.

Yosemite National Park is a very family-friendly destination. 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.

Is Chimney Rock and Lake Lure or Yosemite National Park Better for Couples?

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure
Yosemite National Park

Both Chimney Rock and Lake Lure and Yosemite National Park are excellent destinations for a couple's getaway.

Couples visit Chimney Rock and Lake Lure frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. There are romantic hotels as well as bed and breakfasts that make for a romantic retreat. Couples who enjoy beautiful outdoor settings and fun adventures will enjoy a weekend trip to the area. There are also local restaurants and a few wineries to explore.

Yosemite National Park is a great recreation area if you're traveling as a couple. 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.

Is Chimney Rock and Lake Lure or Yosemite National Park Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure
Yosemite National Park

Yosemite National Park is an amazing national park to visit for backpackers. Also, Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is still popular, but not quite as popular for backpackers and budget travelers.

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.

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is very popular with the backpacker crowd. There are several great campgrounds and plenty of hiking trails that make this a nice budget or backpacker getaway.


Is Chimney Rock and Lake Lure or Yosemite National Park Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure
Yosemite National Park

Yosemite National Park is a national park with good options for its public transit. However, Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is a recreation area with minimal options for times when you don't have a car.

You'll find some public transit in Yosemite National Park, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There is a free bus service that travels around Yosemite Valley.

Public transit is quite limited in Chimney Rock and Lake Lure. There is limited public transit in the area.

Is Chimney Rock and Lake Lure or Yosemite National Park a more walkable city?

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure
Yosemite National Park

Yosemite National Park is a national park with a few options for its ease of walking around. However, Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is a recreation area with minimal options for its walkability.

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

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is not a very walkable recreation area. The trails and parks in the region are spread out and require a car to access.

For even more information, also check out Is Chimney Rock and Lake Lure Worth Visiting? and Is Yosemite National Park Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Yosemite National Park or Chimney Rock and Lake Lure?

How long in Chimney Rock and Lake Lure or Yosemite National Park?

Both Chimney Rock and Lake Lure and Yosemite National Park have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Yosemite National Park than in Chimney Rock and Lake Lure. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Chimney Rock and Lake Lure, and 3-7 days is enough time in Yosemite National Park.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Yosemite National Park than Chimney Rock and Lake Lure 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 Yosemite National Park.


  • How many days in Chimney Rock and Lake Lure or Yosemite National Park? Ideal Length of Stay
    Chimney Rock and Lake Lure 1-3 
    Yosemite National Park 3-7

One day in Chimney Rock and Lake Lure or Yosemite National Park?

The recreation area of Chimney Rock and Lake Lure offers . Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. One day should give you a good understanding of everything this recreation area has to offer.

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.


A weekend in Chimney Rock and Lake Lure or Yosemite National Park?

The beautiful destination of Chimney Rock and Lake Lure offers . This recreation area 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. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

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.

Five days in Chimney Rock and Lake Lure or Yosemite National Park?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Chimney Rock and Lake Lure. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

In Yosemite National Park, many people enjoy the that this world-famous 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.

A week in Chimney Rock and Lake Lure or Yosemite National Park?

Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the when visiting the destination of Chimney Rock and Lake Lure. 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.

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.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Walking Tours in United States of America, The Best Northern Lights Tours in Alaska, The Best Tours Under $1000 in United States of America, and The Best Luxury Tours to United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Yosemite National Park or Chimney Rock and Lake Lure?

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

  • Chimney Rock and Lake Lure Prices
    USA Prices
    Yosemite National Park Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Chimney Rock and Lake Lure $234
    Yosemite National Park $158

The average daily cost (per person) in Chimney Rock and Lake Lure is $234, while the average daily cost in Yosemite National Park is $158. 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 Chimney Rock and Lake Lure and Yosemite National Park in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Chimney Rock and Lake Lure $117
    Yosemite National Park $64
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Chimney Rock and Lake Lure $234
    Yosemite National Park $128
Compare Hotels in Chimney Rock and Lake Lure and Yosemite National Park

Looking for a hotel in Chimney Rock and Lake Lure or Yosemite 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 Chimney Rock and Lake Lure


Hotels in Yosemite 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.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Chimney Rock and Lake Lure $35
    Yosemite National Park $41

Is it cheaper to fly into Chimney Rock and Lake Lure or Yosemite National Park?

Prices for flights to both Yosemite National Park and Chimney Rock and Lake Lure 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
    Chimney Rock and Lake Lure $91
    Yosemite National Park $69

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Chimney Rock and Lake Lure $34
    Yosemite National Park $19

Tours and Activities in Yosemite National Park

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

  • Yosemite National Park Self-Guided Audio Tour: $17
  • Self-Guided Audio Driving Tour in Yosemite: $20
  • Private Yosemite Tour Indulging in Nature, Flavors, and History: $30
  • The Evolution of Yosemite 3 Hour Hiking Tour: $140
  • The Evolution of Yosemite 3 Hour Walking Tour: $140
  • Yosemite Valley & Glacier Point Adaptive Tour: $180
  • Big Trees Hike & Riverside Cookout Adventure: $180
  • Yosemite’s High Country Adaptive Tour: $180
  • Yosemite Winter Highlights Small Group Tour: $200
  • Yosemite Highlights Small Group Tour: $210
  • Semi Private Yosemite Tour with Ahwahnee Lunch and Hotel Pickup: $250
  • Private Yosemite Valley Tour & Roosevelt Cookout: $270

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Chimney Rock and Lake Lure $21
    Yosemite National Park $11


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

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