A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Columbia River Gorge vs. Yellowstone National Park for Hiking, Backpackers, Food, and Families

Should you visit Columbia River Gorge 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 Columbia River Gorge 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.

Columbia River Gorge

Columbia River Gorge is a beautiful, scenic, and natural region. With stunning beauty, Columbia River Gorge attracts visitors from all around. Other popular activities here include hiking, shopping, and nightlife. See Columbia River Gorge travel costs.

Yellowstone National Park

Yellowstone National Park is a breathtaking, vast, and world-famous national park. You'll find world class beauty in Yellowstone National Park as well. It's also known for hiking. See Yellowstone National Park travel costs.

Columbia River Gorge and Yellowstone National Park: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Columbia River Gorge or Yellowstone National Park?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Yellowstone National Park than Columbia River Gorge, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Yellowstone National Park is better known for its resorts, hiking, and impressive beauty, while Columbia River Gorge is more popular for its museums and attractions, food, nightlife, and shopping. Yellowstone National Park is more touristy than Columbia River Gorge and is known for its iconic geysers, breathtaking waterfalls, world-class hikes, and diverse wildlife. Also, Yellowstone National Park is famous for Old Faithful. Columbia River Gorge is well known for its hiking, biking, and high number of waterfalls.

How is Columbia River Gorge 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 Columbia River Gorge. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Columbia River Gorge or Yellowstone National Park?

Columbia River Gorge is a region with a few options for its museums and landmarks. However, Yellowstone National Park does not have museums and landmarks.

Columbia River Gorge offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. There are a couple of local museums in the area, but most visitors spend their time exploring the region's natural beauty.

Yellowstone National Park does not have museums and landmarks.

Is the Food Better in Columbia River Gorge or Yellowstone National Park? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Columbia River Gorge is well known for its restaurant scene. However, Yellowstone National Park is not particularly known for its local flavors and cuisine.

Dining out in Columbia River Gorge is an experience not to be missed. You'll find many great restaurants in the area that serve local dishes that make use of the region's agricultural scene.

Yellowstone National Park offers some easy restaurants to choose from. 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 Columbia River Gorge or Yellowstone National Park Better for Nightlife?

Columbia River Gorge is a popular place for its evening party scene. However, Yellowstone National Park is not particularly known for nightlife.

Columbia River Gorge has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. Local breweries, wineries, and bars offer a relaxing setting with a local vibe.

The nightlife scene is quiet in Yellowstone National Park Things quiet down quickly at night and you won't find many places to go in the evening.

Is Columbia River Gorge or Yellowstone National Park Better for Resorts?

Yellowstone National Park is a well-known place for its resorts. However, Columbia River Gorge is not a resort destination.

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.

Columbia River Gorge is not a resort destination.

Is Columbia River Gorge or Yellowstone National Park Better for Hiking?

Yellowstone National Park is a world-class destination for the nearby hiking options. Also, Columbia River Gorge is not as famous, but is still a good region to visit for its hiking trails.

Known for its hiking, Yellowstone National Park draws a crowd to experience the nature and the 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.

Many visitors explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting Columbia River Gorge. There are world-class hikes that take you to iconic waterfalls, breathtaking viewpoints, and along scenic waterways.

Is the Shopping Better in Columbia River Gorge or Yellowstone National Park?

Columbia River Gorge is a popular place for its shopping areas. However, Yellowstone National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Many visitors go to Columbia River Gorge to go shopping. Art galleries feature local artwork and artisan crafts. There are photography shops and other venues that sell items highlighting the region's beauty.

Yellowstone National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Columbia River Gorge or Yellowstone National Park More Beautiful?

Yellowstone National Park is a world-class destination for its scenery and beauty. Also, Columbia River Gorge is not as famous, but is still a good region to visit for its scenery and beauty.

You'll find world class beauty in Yellowstone National Park as well. With its spectacular geysers, colorful springs, and unique wildlife, the park really is a beautiful place to visit.

The beauty of Columbia River Gorge is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Impressive waterfalls and breathtaking mountain vistas make this a truly beautiful place to visit.

Is Columbia River Gorge or Yellowstone National Park Better for Families?

Columbia River Gorge and Yellowstone National Park are both very good destinations for the whole family.

Columbia River Gorge is a very family-friendly place to visit. Kids will love exploring the waterfalls and mountains as much as the adults do. There are kid-friendly hikes as well as bakeries and restaurants with many kid options.

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 Columbia River Gorge or Yellowstone National Park Better for Couples?

Columbia River Gorge and Yellowstone National Park are both very good to visit as a couple.

Columbia River Gorge is a very popular place to visit for couples. Couples will love the romantic hikes and waterfalls. There are also beautiful scenic viewpoints and wonderful restaurants.

Yellowstone National Park makes for a fun place to visit for 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 Columbia River Gorge or Yellowstone National Park Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Yellowstone National Park is a world-class destination for backpackers. Also, Columbia River Gorge is not as famous, but is still a good region to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Yellowstone National Park is a mecca for backpackers and budget travelers. 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.

Many backpackers visit Columbia River Gorge. You'll find hostels and campgrounds in the area that are perfect for backpackers and budget travelers.

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

Columbia River Gorge is a region with a few options for its public transit. However, Yellowstone National Park is not particularly known for times when you don't have a car.

Public transit is generally limited in Columbia River Gorge. There are some buses, but don't rely on them to efficiently explore.

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 Columbia River Gorge or Yellowstone National Park a more walkable city?

Neither Columbia River Gorge or Yellowstone National Park are walkable places.

Columbia River Gorge is not a walkable region. You really need a car to explore the area, but some visitors rely on a bike.

Yellowstone National Park is not a very walkable region. 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 Columbia River Gorge Worth Visiting? and Is Yellowstone National Park Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Yellowstone National Park or Columbia River Gorge?

How long in Columbia River Gorge or Yellowstone National Park?

Both Columbia River Gorge and Yellowstone 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 Yellowstone National Park than in Columbia River Gorge. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Columbia River Gorge, and 5-7 days is enough time in Yellowstone National Park.

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

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

One day in Columbia River Gorge or Yellowstone National Park?

Visitors enjoy the shopping and nightlife when visiting the natural region of Columbia River Gorge. 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.

Many travelers enjoy the when visiting the beautiful destination of Yellowstone 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 Columbia River Gorge or Yellowstone National Park?

Visitors enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the destination of Columbia River Gorge. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. Anyone can find something fun to do here. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend. Because of this, a weekend is usually enough time for a trip here.

Yellowstone National Park is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. This national park offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Columbia River Gorge or Yellowstone National Park?

Columbia River Gorge is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. 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. It offers something for everyone.

Many people visit Yellowstone National Park for five days. Many travelers enjoy the when visiting the beautiful national park of Yellowstone 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 national park has to offer.

A week in Columbia River Gorge or Yellowstone National Park?

Columbia River Gorge is a popular choice for travelers. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Many travelers enjoy the when visiting the breathtaking destination of Yellowstone 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 Yellowstone National Park, one week is sufficent for most.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Los Angeles, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from New York City, The Best 2-Week Tours from New York City, and The Best 2-Week Tours from Anchorage.

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

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