A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Cumberland Island National Seashore vs. Columbia River Gorge for Hiking, Families, Couples, and Backpackers

Should you visit Cumberland Island National Seashore or Columbia River Gorge?

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

Should I visit Cumberland Island National Seashore or Columbia River Gorge? 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.

Cumberland Island National Seashore

Cumberland Island National Seashore is a pristine, secluded, and undeveloped island. Cumberland Island National Seashore is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for beaches and hiking. See Cumberland Island National Seashore travel costs.

Columbia River Gorge

Columbia River Gorge is a scenic, natural, and beautiful region. Columbia River Gorge is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Other reasons to visit include shopping, nightlife, and food. See Columbia River Gorge travel costs.

Cumberland Island National Seashore and Columbia River Gorge: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Cumberland Island National Seashore or Columbia River Gorge?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Columbia River Gorge. Although Cumberland Island National Seashore and Columbia River Gorge are both popular with visitors, Columbia River Gorge has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Columbia River Gorge is more popular for its museums and attractions, food, nightlife, and shopping, while Cumberland Island National Seashore is known for its beaches and hiking. Columbia River Gorge is more touristy than Cumberland Island National Seashore and is popular for its hiking, biking, and high number of waterfalls. It is also home to Vista House at Crown Point. Cumberland Island National Seashore is popular for its pristine and undeveloped beaches, miles of hiking trails, and wild horses.

How is Cumberland Island National Seashore different from Columbia River Gorge?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Columbia River Gorge and Cumberland Island National Seashore. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Cumberland Island National Seashore or Columbia River Gorge?

Columbia River Gorge is adequate for its historical sights. However, Cumberland Island National Seashore is not known for its sights and museums.

While most people don't head to Columbia River Gorge specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. There are a couple of local museums in the area, but most visitors spend their time exploring the region's natural beauty.

Cumberland Island National Seashore offers a few options for museum-goers. There aren't any museums on the island, but on the mainland there's a visitor center as well as the Cumberland Island National Seashore Museum.

Is the Food Better in Cumberland Island National Seashore or Columbia River Gorge? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Columbia River Gorge is a great region for its local flavors and cuisine. However, Cumberland Island National Seashore is not known for its local cuisine and restaurants.

The food selection at local restaurants is excellent in Columbia River Gorge. You'll find many great restaurants in the area that serve local dishes that make use of the region's agricultural scene.

Most people don't head to Cumberland Island National Seashore for a culinary experience, but it does have restaurants to choose from. There are no restaurants on the island, so you need to pack any food that you might need before you arrive.

Is Cumberland Island National Seashore or Columbia River Gorge Better for Nightlife?

Columbia River Gorge is a popular place for nightlife. However, Cumberland Island National Seashore is not known for nightlife and partying.

If you're looking for night time activities Columbia River Gorge has a few options to choose from. Local breweries, wineries, and bars offer a relaxing setting with a local vibe.

People don't go to Cumberland Island National Seashore for the nightlife. Stargazing is amazing on the island, but you're left to your own devices when it comes to evening entertainment options.

Is Cumberland Island National Seashore or Columbia River Gorge Better for Beaches?

Cumberland Island National Seashore is a world-class destination for its beaches. However, Columbia River Gorge is not a beach destination.

The beaches in Cumberland Island National Seashore are among the best in the world. There are 17 miles of pristine beaches along the island. You'll also find wild horses and miles of hiking trails. Swimming is popular, but do take note that there are no lifeguards on the island.

Columbia River Gorge is not a beach destination.

Is Cumberland Island National Seashore or Columbia River Gorge Better for Hiking?

Cumberland Island National Seashore 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, Cumberland Island National Seashore draws a crowd to experience the nature and the trails. You'll find more than 50 miles of hiking trails on the island. They pass through a number of ecosystems such as wetlands, forests, and beaches. Most visitors come for the day and spend most of their time on the Southend of the island. This is where you'll find the highest concentration of hiking trails. Some of the most popular trails are Dungeness Roadways, River Trail, and Nightingale 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 Cumberland Island National Seashore or Columbia River Gorge?

Columbia River Gorge is a popular place for shopping. However, Cumberland Island National Seashore is not known for its shopping opportunities.

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Columbia River Gorge. Art galleries feature local artwork and artisan crafts. There are photography shops and other venues that sell items highlighting the region's beauty.

Cumberland Island National Seashore has some shopping areas for those that seek them out. There aren't any shops or stores on the island so plan accordingly.

Is Cumberland Island National Seashore or Columbia River Gorge More Beautiful?

Cumberland Island National Seashore and Columbia River Gorge both are comparable with their very good scenery and beauty.

Cumberland Island National Seashore is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. The barrier island has 17 miles of pristine beaches. It offers a truly beautiful setting that feels undiscovered and untouched.

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 Cumberland Island National Seashore or Columbia River Gorge Better for Families?

Columbia River Gorge is a great region for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Cumberland Island National Seashore is not as popular, but is still a nice island for its family-friendly activities.

Columbia River Gorge is a very family-friendly destination. 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.

Cumberland Island National Seashore is a family-friendly place to visit. In addition to the hiking trails, coastline, and wildlife, the island also has junior ranger programs and educational experiences for kids.

Is Cumberland Island National Seashore or Columbia River Gorge Better for Couples?

With fun activities for couples, both Cumberland Island National Seashore and Columbia River Gorge make for a very good place to visit.

Cumberland Island National Seashore is a great island if you're traveling as a couple. Couples will appreciate the pristine coastline, beautiful wildlife, and secluded hiking trails. Many people visit the island as a day trip, but it's also possible to stay at one of the island's campgrounds. For a truly romantic experience you could also stay at the Greyfield Inn.

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.

Is Cumberland Island National Seashore or Columbia River Gorge Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

For backpackers, both Cumberland Island National Seashore and Columbia River Gorge are very good places to visit.

Cumberland Island National Seashore is very popular with the backpacker crowd. Backpackers appreciate the secluded and pristine atmosphere. There are miles of hiking trails as well as campgrounds on the island for those who want to stay overnight.

Columbia River Gorge is a great island to visit for backpackers. You'll find hostels and campgrounds in the area that are perfect for backpackers and budget travelers.

Is Cumberland Island National Seashore or Columbia River Gorge Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Cumberland Island National Seashore and Columbia River Gorge both offer decent public transit to get you around.

Public transit is mostly limited in Cumberland Island National Seashore. The only way to the island is by ferry. It leaves from the town of St. Marys and advanced reservations are recommended.

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

Is Cumberland Island National Seashore or Columbia River Gorge a more walkable city?

Cumberland Island National Seashore is a nice place to visit for its walkability. However, Columbia River Gorge is not a good region for its high level of walkability.

Cumberland Island National Seashore is somewhat walkable. There are many hikes on the island, but the whole island is 18 miles long, making it difficult to walk in one day. Many visitors spend their time near the campgrounds where there's the highest concentration of hiking trails. This area is known as Sea Camp.

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

For even more information, also check out Is Cumberland Island National Seashore Worth Visiting? and Is Columbia River Gorge Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Columbia River Gorge or Cumberland Island National Seashore?

How long in Cumberland Island National Seashore or Columbia River Gorge?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Cumberland Island National Seashore and Columbia River Gorge. In our opinion, Columbia River Gorge has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Columbia River Gorge than Cumberland Island National Seashore. In general, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Cumberland Island National Seashore, and 2-3 days is enough time in Columbia River Gorge.

Families should spend more time in Columbia River Gorge than Cumberland Island National Seashore. 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 Cumberland Island National Seashore. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Columbia River Gorge that are perfect for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Columbia River Gorge than Cumberland Island National Seashore 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 Columbia River Gorge.

One day in Cumberland Island National Seashore or Columbia River Gorge?

Many travelers enjoy the when visiting the beautiful destination of Cumberland Island National Seashore. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. One day is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Cumberland Island National Seashore has to offer.

In Columbia River Gorge, you'll find nightlife and food. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

A weekend in Cumberland Island National Seashore or Columbia River Gorge?

Cumberland Island National Seashore is a fun place to experience. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this island has to offer. This island offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Many people visit Columbia River Gorge for a weekend. Plenty of people spend a weekend in the area when traveling. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. A weekend is usually enough time to experience most activities. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Five days in Cumberland Island National Seashore or Columbia River Gorge?

Many people visit Cumberland Island National Seashore for five days. You'll find around the beautiful island of Cumberland Island National Seashore. 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.

Columbia River Gorge is a popular place to visit. The beautiful region of Columbia River Gorge offers shopping and nightlife. 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.

A week in Cumberland Island National Seashore or Columbia River Gorge?

The undeveloped destination of Cumberland Island National Seashore offers . 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.

Many people enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting Columbia River Gorge. Hikers are also drawn to this area. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

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.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Cumberland Island National Seashore and Columbia River Gorge, we can see that Columbia River Gorge is more expensive. And not only is Cumberland Island National Seashore much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Cumberland Island National Seashore would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Cumberland Island National Seashore 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 Cumberland Island National Seashore.

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

When is the best time to visit Cumberland Island National Seashore or Columbia River Gorge?

Both places have a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. As both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Cumberland Island National Seashore or Columbia River Gorge in the Summer?

Both Columbia River Gorge and Cumberland Island National Seashore during the summer are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Cumberland Island National Seashore for the beaches, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Columbia River Gorge in the summer for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences.

Cumberland Island National Seashore is a little warmer than Columbia River Gorge in the summer. The daily temperature in Cumberland Island National Seashore averages around 82°F (28°C) in July, and Columbia River Gorge fluctuates around 68°F (20°C).

In Columbia River Gorge, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Cumberland Island National Seashore. In the summer, Cumberland Island National Seashore often gets less sunshine than Columbia River Gorge. Cumberland Island National Seashore gets 286 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Columbia River Gorge receives 338 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Cumberland Island National Seashore. Cumberland Island National Seashore usually gets more rain in July than Columbia River Gorge. Cumberland Island National Seashore gets 5.4 inches (137 mm) of rain, while Columbia River Gorge receives 0.7 inches (18 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Cumberland Island National Seashore or Columbia River Gorge in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Cumberland Island National Seashore and Columbia River Gorge. Many visitors come to Cumberland Island National Seashore in the autumn for the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area. Also, most visitors come to Columbia River Gorge for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

In the autumn, Cumberland Island National Seashore is much warmer than Columbia River Gorge. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Cumberland Island National Seashore in October average around 70°F (21°C), and Columbia River Gorge averages at about 55°F (13°C).

In Cumberland Island National Seashore, it's very sunny this time of the year. Cumberland Island National Seashore usually receives more sunshine than Columbia River Gorge during autumn. Cumberland Island National Seashore gets 214 hours of sunny skies, while Columbia River Gorge receives 155 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Cumberland Island National Seashore usually receives more rain than Columbia River Gorge. Cumberland Island National Seashore gets 2.9 inches (73 mm) of rain, while Columbia River Gorge receives 2.6 inches (67 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Cumberland Island National Seashore or Columbia River Gorge in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Cumberland Island National Seashore as well as Columbia River Gorge. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Columbia River Gorge because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

The weather in Columbia River Gorge can be very cold. In January, Cumberland Island National Seashore is generally much warmer than Columbia River Gorge. Daily temperatures in Cumberland Island National Seashore average around 53°F (12°C), and Columbia River Gorge fluctuates around 40°F (4°C).

In the winter, Cumberland Island National Seashore often gets more sunshine than Columbia River Gorge. Cumberland Island National Seashore gets 191 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Columbia River Gorge receives 86 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Columbia River Gorge. Cumberland Island National Seashore usually gets less rain in January than Columbia River Gorge. Cumberland Island National Seashore gets 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain, while Columbia River Gorge receives 5.2 inches (132 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Cumberland Island National Seashore or Columbia River Gorge in the Spring?

Both Columbia River Gorge and Cumberland Island National Seashore are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The spring months attract visitors to Cumberland Island National Seashore because of the beaches and the natural beauty. Also, the natural beauty are the main draw to Columbia River Gorge this time of year.

Cumberland Island National Seashore is much warmer than Columbia River Gorge in the spring. The daily temperature in Cumberland Island National Seashore averages around 68°F (20°C) in April, and Columbia River Gorge fluctuates around 51°F (11°C).

It's quite sunny in Columbia River Gorge. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Cumberland Island National Seashore. Cumberland Island National Seashore usually receives more sunshine than Columbia River Gorge during spring. Cumberland Island National Seashore gets 285 hours of sunny skies, while Columbia River Gorge receives 231 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Cumberland Island National Seashore usually receives more rain than Columbia River Gorge. Cumberland Island National Seashore gets 2.8 inches (72 mm) of rain, while Columbia River Gorge receives 2.4 inches (61 mm) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Columbia River Gorge and Cumberland Island National Seashore