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

Should you visit Cumberland Island National Seashore or Glacier National Park?

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

Should I visit Cumberland Island National Seashore or Glacier National Park? 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.

Glacier National Park

Glacier National Park is a stunning, breathtaking, and gorgeous park. Many visitors also come to Glacier National Park because of it's amazing beauty. Other reasons to visit include hiking. See Glacier National Park travel costs.

Cumberland Island National Seashore and Glacier National Park: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Very walkable
  • Impressive beauty
Pros
  • Nice resorts
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to Going-to-the-Sun Road
Things to Consider
  • Less walkable


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

Tourists will generally find more to do in Glacier National Park. Although Cumberland Island National Seashore and Glacier National Park are both popular with visitors, Glacier National Park has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Glacier National Park is more popular for its food, resorts, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Cumberland Island National Seashore is known for its beaches and hiking. Glacier National Park is more touristy than Cumberland Island National Seashore and is popular for its miles of hiking trails, impressive glaciers, and pristine lakes. It is also home to Going-to-the-Sun Road. 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 Glacier National Park?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Glacier National Park 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 Glacier National Park?

Cumberland Island National Seashore
Glacier National Park

Neither Cumberland Island National Seashore or Glacier National Park offer quality museums and landmarks.

If you're looking to pass the time, head to a museum or historic sight in Cumberland Island National Seashore. 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.

Glacier National Park offers a few options for museum-goers. There are a couple of local museums in the area, but most people head straight for the park.


Is the Food Better in Cumberland Island National Seashore or Glacier National Park? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Cumberland Island National Seashore
Glacier National Park

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

Glacier National Park offers some easy restaurants to choose from. You'll find several restaurants and cafes both within and near the park, but this is an incredibly crowded park so you'll want to make reservations well in advance.

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 Glacier National Park Better for Nightlife?

Cumberland Island National Seashore
Glacier National Park

Neither Cumberland Island National Seashore or Glacier National Park offer decent nightlife.

The nightlife scene is quiet in Cumberland Island National Seashore Stargazing is amazing on the island, but you're left to your own devices when it comes to evening entertainment options.

People don't go to Glacier National Park for the nightlife. People visit for the scenery, not the nightlife scene.

Is Cumberland Island National Seashore or Glacier National Park Better for Resorts?

Cumberland Island National Seashore
Glacier National Park

Glacier National Park is a popular place for its luxury resorts. However, Cumberland Island National Seashore is not a resort destination.

Glacier National Park has a handful of resorts to choose from. There are several lodges, cabins, and inns near or within the park, but reservations are recommended well in advance.

Cumberland Island National Seashore is not a resort destination.


Is Cumberland Island National Seashore or Glacier National Park Better for Beaches?

Cumberland Island National Seashore
Glacier National Park

Cumberland Island National Seashore is very popular for its beaches. However, Glacier National Park is not a beach destination.

Travelers come from around the world to visit the beaches in Cumberland Island National Seashore. 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.

Glacier National Park is not a beach destination.

Is Cumberland Island National Seashore or Glacier National Park Better for Hiking?

Cumberland Island National Seashore
Glacier National Park

Cumberland Island National Seashore is very popular for the nearby hiking options. Also, Glacier National Park is not as famous, but is still a good park to visit for its hiking trails.

People visit Cumberland Island National Seashore specifically for its hiking, as the natural beauty is well-known. 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 Glacier National Park. There are more than 700 miles of trails in the park. For the best experience, you should purchase a permit and explore the parks backcountry. Other popular trails include Highline Trail, Grinnell Glacier Trail, and Avalanche Lake Trail. It's best to start in the early morning as this is a popular park and the trails get busier as the day progresses.

Is the Shopping Better in Cumberland Island National Seashore or Glacier National Park?

Cumberland Island National Seashore
Glacier National Park

Glacier National Park is adequate for shopping. However, Cumberland Island National Seashore is not known for its shopping opportunities.

Glacier National Park is a good destination for shopping. There are park stores where you can pick up books, souvenirs, and gifts.

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 Glacier National Park More Beautiful?

Cumberland Island National Seashore
Glacier National Park

Glacier National Park is an amazing park to visit for its scenery and beauty. Also, Cumberland Island National Seashore is not as popular, but is still a nice island for its scenery and beauty.

Many visitors also come to Glacier National Park because of it's amazing beauty. This is one of the most stunning national parks in the United States with its many pristine lakes, striking mountain peaks, and breathtaking views.

The beauty of Cumberland Island National Seashore is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. The barrier island has 17 miles of pristine beaches. It offers a truly beautiful setting that feels undiscovered and untouched.

Is Cumberland Island National Seashore or Glacier National Park Better for Families?

Cumberland Island National Seashore
Glacier National Park

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Cumberland Island National Seashore or Glacier National Park.

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.

Glacier National Park is a family-friendly place to visit. The landscapes are spectacular, but the crowds can be intense, which means it can be hard to find places to pull over and park during the peak seasons. Keep this in mind when you're traveling with kids because you may end up spending more time in the car than you'd expected.

Is Cumberland Island National Seashore or Glacier National Park Better for Couples?

Cumberland Island National Seashore
Glacier National Park

With fun activities for couples, both Cumberland Island National Seashore and Glacier National Park make for a high quality 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.

Glacier National Park is a very popular place to visit for couples. Drive along the scenic Going-to-the-Sun-Road and take in the truly breathtaking scenery. Many people consider this to be a top destination for a honeymoon and couples will appreciate the impressive hikes, dramatic waterfalls, and adventure-filled activities.


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

Cumberland Island National Seashore
Glacier National Park

Glacier National Park is an amazing park to visit for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Cumberland Island National Seashore is not as popular, but is still a nice island for backpackers.

Many backpackers frequent Glacier National Park. The backcountry is truly pristine, and obtaining a Wilderness Permit and getting off-the-beaten-path will help you escape some of the crowds that the park is known for.

Cumberland Island National Seashore is a great island to visit for backpackers. 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.

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

Cumberland Island National Seashore
Glacier National Park

Cumberland Island National Seashore and Glacier National Park 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 Glacier National Park. There's a free shuttle along Going-to-the-Sun Road that's available on a first-come, first-served basis, but expect crowds. The road can get quite congested during peak times. There are also tours that take you along the road so you can enjoy the scenery without having to focus on driving.

Is Cumberland Island National Seashore or Glacier National Park a more walkable city?

Cumberland Island National Seashore
Glacier National Park

Cumberland Island National Seashore is a popular place for its walkability. However, Glacier National Park is a mediocre park 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.

Glacier National Park is not a very walkable island. You'll need a car to get almost anywhere in the park.


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

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

How long in Cumberland Island National Seashore or Glacier National Park?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Cumberland Island National Seashore and Glacier National Park. In our opinion, Glacier National Park has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Glacier National Park 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 Glacier National Park.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Glacier National Park 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 Glacier National Park.


  • How many days in Cumberland Island National Seashore or Glacier National Park? Ideal Length of Stay
    Cumberland Island National Seashore 1-3 
    Glacier National Park 2-3

One day in Cumberland Island National Seashore or Glacier National Park?

In Cumberland Island National Seashore, you'll find . Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. Anyone can find something fun to do here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Cumberland Island National Seashore, one day is sufficent for most.

In Glacier National Park, you'll find . 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 Glacier National Park?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Cumberland Island National Seashore. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this island. It offers something for everyone.

Many people visit Glacier National Park 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 Glacier National Park?

Cumberland Island National Seashore is a fun place to experience. It's also a great beach destination, too. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Glacier National Park is a popular place to visit. The stunning park of Glacier National Park offers . 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 Glacier National Park?

You'll find around the untouched destination of Cumberland Island National Seashore. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Many people enjoy the when visiting Glacier National Park. 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.


Which place is cheaper, Glacier National Park or Cumberland Island National Seashore?

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

  • Cumberland Island National Seashore Prices
    USA Prices
    Glacier National Park Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Cumberland Island National Seashore $175
    Glacier National Park $148

The average daily cost (per person) in Cumberland Island National Seashore is $175, while the average daily cost in Glacier National Park is $148. 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 Cumberland Island National Seashore and Glacier National Park in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Cumberland Island National Seashore $75
    Glacier National Park $56
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Cumberland Island National Seashore $150
    Glacier National Park $112
Compare Hotels in Cumberland Island National Seashore and Glacier National Park

Looking for a hotel in Cumberland Island National Seashore or Glacier 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 Cumberland Island National Seashore


Hotels in Glacier 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.


Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Cumberland Island National Seashore $59
    Glacier National Park $69

Is it cheaper to fly into Cumberland Island National Seashore or Glacier National Park?

Prices for flights to both Glacier National Park and Cumberland Island National Seashore 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
    Cumberland Island National Seashore $65
    Glacier National Park $49

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Cumberland Island National Seashore $23
    Glacier National Park $34

Tours and Activities in Glacier National Park

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

  • Combo Tour: Driving and Snowshoe Trek of Glacier National Park: $250
  • Doris Lake Hike and Pack Raft Adventure: $219
  • Driving Tour West Glacier National Park (excludes Sun Road): $245
  • Driving Tour in Glacier National Park: $250
  • E Bike Tour in Glacier National Park Cammas Road: $229
  • Full Day Whitewater Adventure Trip with Included Lunch: $159
  • Fun and Romantic Pottery Experience for Couples: $275
  • Glacier National Park Going-to-the-Sun Road Self-Guided Tour: $9.99
  • Glacier National Park North Fork Self-Guided Audio Tour: $9.99
  • Glacier National Park Self-Guided Audio Tour Bundle: $16
  • Glacier National Park Self-Guided Driving Audio Tour: $17
  • Many Glacier Self-Guided Audio Tour in Glacier National Park: $9.99

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Cumberland Island National Seashore $25
    Glacier National Park $8.41


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

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 Glacier National Park Expensive?.


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