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

Should you visit Cumberland Island National Seashore or Ketchikan?

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

Should I visit Cumberland Island National Seashore or Ketchikan? 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.

Ketchikan

Ketchikan is a local, scenic, and quaint town. With fun activities and sights, this is a small town worth visiting. Ketchikan is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Other reasons to visit include museums, food, and hiking. See Ketchikan travel costs.

Cumberland Island National Seashore and Ketchikan: Pros and Cons

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

Tourists will generally find more to do in Ketchikan. Although Cumberland Island National Seashore and Ketchikan are both popular with visitors, Ketchikan has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Ketchikan is more popular for its museums and attractions, food, nightlife, shopping, and small town charm, while Cumberland Island National Seashore is known for its beaches. Ketchikan is more touristy than Cumberland Island National Seashore and is popular for its salmon fishing, beautiful natural environment, and strong sense of local culture. It is also home to the Southeast Alaska Discovery Center. 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 Ketchikan?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Ketchikan 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 Ketchikan?

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

Ketchikan is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. There are a few local museums in town such as the Tongass Historical Museum and the Totem Heritage Center.

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 Ketchikan? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Ketchikan is an amazing town to visit for its local flavors and cuisine. However, Cumberland Island National Seashore is not known for its local cuisine and restaurants.

For foodies, Ketchikan is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world. It's known as the salmon capital of the world for good reason. You can expect some of the freshest seafood around with many local restaurants serving up fresh Dungeness Crab, Alaska King Crab, and Alaskan King Salmon. It's a huge fishing destination and the cuisine reflects that, but even if you're looking for a landlover's menu, you'll find a number of good dishes.

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 Ketchikan Better for Nightlife?

Ketchikan is adequate for nightlife. However, Cumberland Island National Seashore is not known for nightlife and partying.

Ketchikan doesn't have the most active nightlife scene. Because most visitors arrive by cruise ship, there's a more local vibe to the nightlife scene. You'll find a few local bars around town where you can enjoy a drink and good conversation.

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 Ketchikan Better for Beaches?

Cumberland Island National Seashore is renowned for its beaches. However, Ketchikan 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.

Ketchikan is not a beach destination.

Is Cumberland Island National Seashore or Ketchikan Better for Hiking?

If you're looking to go hiking, Cumberland Island National Seashore and Ketchikan both have world-class 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 people visit Ketchikan specifically for its hiking. You'll find many hikes that will take you through the local vegetation or to impressive viewpoints. Some hikes involve challenging climbs while others are more relaxing. Some visitors prefer to hire a guide to the lead them through the Alaskan wilderness, but the most popular and easier trails are usually well marked.

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

Ketchikan 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 Ketchikan. As tourism has grown, the shopping in downtown Ketchikan has shifted from locally-oriented venders to jewelry and souvenir stores. Many shops are only open during the summer months, and you'll find the more local shops outside of town.

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 Ketchikan More Beautiful?

Cumberland Island National Seashore and Ketchikan both are comparable with their great 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 Ketchikan is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. It's located at the southernmost entrance to the Inside Passage, so you can expect dramatic natural beauty and a breathtaking setting.

Is Cumberland Island National Seashore or Ketchikan Better for Families?

Ketchikan is a great town 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.

Ketchikan is a very family-friendly destination. There are a number of kid-friendly activities and tours, but do note that many tours book up fully with cruise ship passengers. Any tours you wish to do should be arranged well in advance. Popular kid-friendly activities include the Great Alaskan Lumberjack Show, Misty Fjords, and a visit to Totem Bight State Historical Park. Everyone will enjoy learning about the area's history and nature at the Southeast Alaska Discovery Center. And anyone who enjoys the show "The Most Dangerous Catch" will appreciate the Bering Sea Crab Fishermen's Tour.

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 Ketchikan Better for Couples?

With fun activities for couples, both Cumberland Island National Seashore and Ketchikan 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.

Ketchikan is a very popular place to visit for couples. Couples who enjoy natural beauty, hiking, and wildlife will appreciate their time here. There are many opportunities for fishing and a plethora of seafood restaurants in the area that take advantage of this past time.

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

Cumberland Island National Seashore is notable for backpackers. Also, Ketchikan is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers come from all over to visit Cumberland Island National Seashore. 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.

It's common for backpackers to visit Ketchikan. While most visitors arrive by cruise ship, for those travel independently will appreciate the hostel in town.

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

Cumberland Island National Seashore and Ketchikan 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 Ketchikan. There are buses that travel through town.

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

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

Ketchikan is very walkable. The downtown is relatively compact and walkable.

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 Ketchikan Worth Visiting?.

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

How long in Cumberland Island National Seashore or Ketchikan?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Cumberland Island National Seashore and Ketchikan. In our opinion, Ketchikan has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Ketchikan than Cumberland Island National Seashore. However, 1-3 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

Families should spend more time in Ketchikan than Cumberland Island National Seashore. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Ketchikan, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

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

One day in Cumberland Island National Seashore or Ketchikan?

You'll find around the island of Cumberland Island National Seashore. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. One day is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Cumberland Island National Seashore has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

In Ketchikan, you'll find food and shopping. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then one day is just the right amount of time to spend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

A weekend in Cumberland Island National Seashore or Ketchikan?

You'll find around the pristine destination of Cumberland Island National Seashore. Hikers are also drawn to this area. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.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 Ketchikan 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 Ketchikan?

Travelers enjoy the when visiting the untouched island of Cumberland Island National Seashore. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. It's also a great beach destination, too. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Ketchikan is a popular place to visit. The scenic town of Ketchikan offers museums and food. 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 Ketchikan?

Cumberland Island National Seashore is a popular choice for travelers. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. One week is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Many people enjoy the food and shopping when visiting Ketchikan. 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 Ketchikan, we can see that Ketchikan 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 Ketchikan would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Ketchikan 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 Ketchikan Expensive?.

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

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 Ketchikan in the Summer?

Both Ketchikan and Cumberland Island National Seashore during the summer are popular places to visit. The beaches, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Cumberland Island National Seashore this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Ketchikan for the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences.

Cumberland Island National Seashore is much warmer than Ketchikan in the summer. The daily temperature in Cumberland Island National Seashore averages around 82°F (28°C) in July, and Ketchikan fluctuates around 58°F (15°C).

Ketchikan gets a good bit of rain this time of year. It rains a lot this time of the year in Cumberland Island National Seashore. Cumberland Island National Seashore usually gets less rain in July than Ketchikan. Cumberland Island National Seashore gets 5.4 inches (137 mm) of rain, while Ketchikan receives 7.6 inches (193 mm) of rain this time of the year.

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

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Cumberland Island National Seashore and Ketchikan. Many travelers come to Cumberland Island National Seashore for the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area. Furthermore, many visitors come to Ketchikan in the autumn for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Cumberland Island National Seashore is much warmer than Ketchikan. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Cumberland Island National Seashore in October average around 70°F (21°C), and Ketchikan averages at about 46°F (8°C).

Ketchikan receives a lot of rain in the autumn. In October, Cumberland Island National Seashore usually receives less rain than Ketchikan. Cumberland Island National Seashore gets 2.9 inches (73 mm) of rain, while Ketchikan receives 22.9 inches (581 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.

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

The winter brings many poeple to Cumberland Island National Seashore as well as Ketchikan. Additionally, most visitors come to Ketchikan for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Ketchikan can be very cold during winter. In January, Cumberland Island National Seashore is generally much warmer than Ketchikan. Daily temperatures in Cumberland Island National Seashore average around 53°F (12°C), and Ketchikan fluctuates around 34°F (1°C).

It's quite rainy in Ketchikan. Cumberland Island National Seashore usually gets less rain in January than Ketchikan. Cumberland Island National Seashore gets 3.3 inches (83 mm) of rain, while Ketchikan receives 14.9 inches (379 mm) of rain this time of the year.

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

Both Ketchikan and Cumberland Island National Seashore are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Cumberland Island National Seashore for the beaches and the natural beauty during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Ketchikan because of the small town charm and the natural beauty.

Cumberland Island National Seashore is much warmer than Ketchikan in the spring. The daily temperature in Cumberland Island National Seashore averages around 68°F (20°C) in April, and Ketchikan fluctuates around 44°F (6°C).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Ketchikan. In April, Cumberland Island National Seashore usually receives less rain than Ketchikan. Cumberland Island National Seashore gets 2.8 inches (72 mm) of rain, while Ketchikan receives 11.3 inches (286 mm) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Ketchikan and Cumberland Island National Seashore