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

Should you visit Cumberland Island National Seashore or Gatlinburg?

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

Should I visit Cumberland Island National Seashore or Gatlinburg? 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 untouched, pristine, and secluded island. Cumberland Island National Seashore is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Other reasons to visit include beaches and hiking. See Cumberland Island National Seashore travel costs.

Gatlinburg

Gatlinburg is a flashy, high energy, and wild city. Other reasons to visit include hiking, shopping, and museums. See Gatlinburg travel costs.

Cumberland Island National Seashore and Gatlinburg: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Cumberland Island National Seashore or Gatlinburg?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Gatlinburg. Although Cumberland Island National Seashore and Gatlinburg are both popular with visitors, Gatlinburg has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Gatlinburg is more popular for its skiing, museums and attractions, food, nightlife, resorts, and shopping, while Cumberland Island National Seashore is known for its beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty. Gatlinburg is more touristy than Cumberland Island National Seashore and is known for its countless entertainment venues as well as its easy access to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. It is also home to the Gatlinburg Strip. 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 Gatlinburg?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Cumberland Island National Seashore or Gatlinburg Better for Skiing?

Gatlinburg is a popular place for skiing. However, Cumberland Island National Seashore is not a skiing destination.

Gatlinburg is a great destination for skiing with plenty areas to explore. Ober Gatlinburg is the only ski area in Tennessee. The winter activities open after Thanksgiving and include snow skiing, snowboarding, ice skating, and tubing.

Cumberland Island National Seashore is not a skiing destination.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Cumberland Island National Seashore or Gatlinburg?

Gatlinburg is a popular place for its historical sights. However, Cumberland Island National Seashore is not known for its sights and museums.

Gatlinburg is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. Museums range from gaudy to quirky. Check out the Hollywood Star Cars Museum, the Salt and Pepper Shaker Museum, Ripley's Believe It or Not, the Hollywood Wax Museum, and the Titanic Museum. There's also the Gatlinburg Space Needle and the Gatlinburg SkyBridge.

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 Gatlinburg? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Gatlinburg is adequate for its local flavors and cuisine. However, Cumberland Island National Seashore is not known for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Gatlinburg offers some easy restaurants to choose from. Staying true to form, restaurants in Gatlinburg cater to the tourist scene and serve up burgers, pizza, pancakes, and other classic favorites.

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 Gatlinburg Better for Nightlife?

Gatlinburg is an amazing city to visit for nightlife. However, Cumberland Island National Seashore is not known for nightlife and partying.

Gatlinburg has a colorful and one-of-a-kind nightlife scene. Live music, theatrical shows, as well as bars and clubs that stay open late into the night give this town a huge party atmosphere. During the peak season the town is packed with people looking to have a good time and you'll find tons of things to do by simply walking down the main drag.

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 Gatlinburg Better for Resorts?

Gatlinburg is a great city for its luxury resorts. However, Cumberland Island National Seashore is not a resort destination.

Gatlinburg is known as a popular and fun resort destination. There are plenty of resorts and vacation clubs near town. Many have pools, waterslides, or hot tubs.

Cumberland Island National Seashore is not a resort destination.

Is Cumberland Island National Seashore or Gatlinburg Better for Beaches?

Cumberland Island National Seashore is renowned for its beaches. However, Gatlinburg is not a beach destination.

With world-famous beaches, Cumberland Island National Seashore is a very popular vacation destination. 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.

Gatlinburg is not a beach destination.

Is Cumberland Island National Seashore or Gatlinburg Better for Hiking?

Cumberland Island National Seashore is renowned for hiking. Also, Gatlinburg is not as popular, but is still a nice city for the nearby hiking options.

Many people visit Cumberland Island National Seashore specifically for its hiking. 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.

Gatlinburg is a popular spot for hiking. You'll need to head out of town into the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, but once you're there the hiking is impressive. There are waterfall hikes, trails to viewpoints, and loops that take you through wildflowers. Some of the most popular trails include Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail, Middle Prong Trail, and the Gatlinburg Trail.

Is the Shopping Better in Cumberland Island National Seashore or Gatlinburg?

Gatlinburg 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 Gatlinburg. There are tourist traps and souvenir shops around town, but you can also head to the Great Smoky Arts and Crafts Community where you can meet local artists and learn about their work.

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 Gatlinburg More Beautiful?

Cumberland Island National Seashore is great for its scenery and beauty. However, Gatlinburg is not a destination known for its 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.

Gatlinburg is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Cumberland Island National Seashore or Gatlinburg Better for Families?

Cumberland Island National Seashore is very good for its kid-friendly activities. However, Gatlinburg is not a family-friendly destination.

Cumberland Island National Seashore offers lots of family activities. In addition to the hiking trails, coastline, and wildlife, the island also has junior ranger programs and educational experiences for kids.

Gatlinburg is not a family-friendly destination. Ober Gatlinburg is a combination ski resort and amusement park that is a highlight for many families. During the warmer season, horseback riding and waterparks are popular. There's also a Ripley's Aquarium, minigolf, and Gatlin's Fun Center. Nearby you'll find Dollywood and Pigeon Forge.

Is Cumberland Island National Seashore or Gatlinburg Better for Couples?

With fun activities for couples, both Cumberland Island National Seashore and Gatlinburg make for a great 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.

Gatlinburg is a very popular place to visit for couples. If you're looking for a flashy and ostentatious experience, then there are all the typical activities around town - Ripley's Believe It or Not, the Gatlinburg Space Needle, or Ober Gatlinburg. For a bit more nature, you can head out of town and enjoy one of the many hiking trails. There are also breweries and wineries in the area, as well as a range of resorts.

Is Cumberland Island National Seashore or Gatlinburg Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Cumberland Island National Seashore is great for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Gatlinburg is not a good destination for backpackers.

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.

Gatlinburg is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. It's a touristy town with plenty of cheap motels in the area. There are also campgrounds and hiking not far away.

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

Gatlinburg is a popular place for times when you don't have a car. However, Cumberland Island National Seashore is not known for its public transit.

While Gatlinburg offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There's a free trolley service that offers a convenient way to get around town.

Public transit is generally 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.

Is Cumberland Island National Seashore or Gatlinburg a more walkable city?

Gatlinburg is a great city for its walkability. Also, Cumberland Island National Seashore is not as popular, but is still a nice island for its high level of walkability.

Gatlinburg is very walkable. The downtown area is pedestrian-friendly and most of the attractions in town can be reached on foot. If you want to leave town, a car is a must, but in town traffic and parking can be frustrating, so walk when you can.

Cumberland Island National Seashore is a somewhat walkable place. 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.

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

Should I spend more time in Gatlinburg or Cumberland Island National Seashore?

How long in Cumberland Island National Seashore or Gatlinburg?

It's fun to spend time in either Cumberland Island National Seashore or Gatlinburg. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Gatlinburg due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Cumberland Island National Seashore, and 2-4 days is enough time in Gatlinburg.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Gatlinburg 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 Gatlinburg.

One day in Cumberland Island National Seashore or Gatlinburg?

With around the untouched island of Cumberland Island National Seashore, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Cumberland Island National Seashore, one day is sufficent for most.

In Gatlinburg, you'll find skiing and nightlife. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. One reason most visitors come is for the nightlife. 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 Gatlinburg?

With around the destination of Cumberland Island National Seashore, there's plenty to do. It's also a great beach destination, too. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this island.

Many people visit Gatlinburg 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 Gatlinburg?

Cumberland Island National Seashore, a popular island, is full of activities for travelers. 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. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Gatlinburg is a popular place to visit. The wild city of Gatlinburg offers shopping and museums. One reason most visitors come is for the nightlife. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

A week in Cumberland Island National Seashore or Gatlinburg?

Cumberland Island National Seashore is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Many people enjoy the museums and skiing when visiting Gatlinburg. You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. One reason most visitors come is for the nightlife. 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 Gatlinburg, we can see that Gatlinburg 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 Gatlinburg would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Gatlinburg 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 Gatlinburg Expensive?.

When is the best time to visit Cumberland Island National Seashore or Gatlinburg?

Both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. And since both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Cumberland Island National Seashore or Gatlinburg in the Summer?

Both Gatlinburg and Cumberland Island National Seashore are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The beaches, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Cumberland Island National Seashore this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Gatlinburg for the hiking.

Cumberland Island National Seashore is around the same temperature as Gatlinburg in the summer. The daily temperature in Cumberland Island National Seashore averages around 82°F (28°C) in July, and Gatlinburg fluctuates around 81°F (27°C).

It's quite sunny in Gatlinburg. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Cumberland Island National Seashore. Cumberland Island National Seashore usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Gatlinburg during summer. Cumberland Island National Seashore gets 286 hours of sunny skies, while Gatlinburg receives 294 hours of full sun in the summer.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Gatlinburg. It's quite rainy in Cumberland Island National Seashore. In July, Cumberland Island National Seashore usually receives more rain than Gatlinburg. Cumberland Island National Seashore gets 5.4 inches (137 mm) of rain, while Gatlinburg receives 4.7 inches (119 mm) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Cumberland Island National Seashore or Gatlinburg in the Autumn?

Both Gatlinburg and Cumberland Island National Seashore during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Cumberland Island National Seashore for the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area. Furthermore, many visitors come to Gatlinburg in the autumn for the hiking trails and the shopping scene.

In the autumn, Cumberland Island National Seashore is a little warmer than Gatlinburg. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Cumberland Island National Seashore in October average around 70°F (21°C), and Gatlinburg averages at about 63°F (17°C).

In Gatlinburg, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Cumberland Island National Seashore. In the autumn, Cumberland Island National Seashore often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Gatlinburg. Cumberland Island National Seashore gets 214 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Gatlinburg receives 213 hours of full sun.

Cumberland Island National Seashore usually gets around the same amount of rain in October as Gatlinburg. Cumberland Island National Seashore gets 2.9 inches (73 mm) of rain, while Gatlinburg receives 2.7 inches (68 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Cumberland Island National Seashore or Gatlinburg in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Cumberland Island National Seashore and Gatlinburg. Furthermore, most visitors come to Gatlinburg for the skiing, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Gatlinburg can be very cold during winter. In January, Cumberland Island National Seashore is generally much warmer than Gatlinburg. Daily temperatures in Cumberland Island National Seashore average around 53°F (12°C), and Gatlinburg fluctuates around 40°F (5°C).

Cumberland Island National Seashore usually receives more sunshine than Gatlinburg during winter. Cumberland Island National Seashore gets 191 hours of sunny skies, while Gatlinburg receives 134 hours of full sun in the winter.

Gatlinburg receives a lot of rain in the winter. In January, Cumberland Island National Seashore usually receives less rain than Gatlinburg. Cumberland Island National Seashore gets 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain, while Gatlinburg receives 4.7 inches (119 mm) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Cumberland Island National Seashore or Gatlinburg in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Cumberland Island National Seashore as well as Gatlinburg. Most visitors come to Cumberland Island National Seashore for the beaches and the natural beauty during these months.

Cumberland Island National Seashore is a little warmer than Gatlinburg in the spring. The daily temperature in Cumberland Island National Seashore averages around 68°F (20°C) in April, and Gatlinburg fluctuates around 62°F (17°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Gatlinburg. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Cumberland Island National Seashore this time of the year. In the spring, Cumberland Island National Seashore often gets more sunshine than Gatlinburg. Cumberland Island National Seashore gets 285 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Gatlinburg receives 263 hours of full sun.

Cumberland Island National Seashore usually gets less rain in April than Gatlinburg. Cumberland Island National Seashore gets 2.8 inches (72 mm) of rain, while Gatlinburg receives 3.6 inches (92 mm) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Gatlinburg and Cumberland Island National Seashore