A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Death Valley National Park vs. Jasper National Park for Hiking, Backpackers, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Death Valley National Park or Jasper National Park?

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

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Death Valley National Park and Jasper National Park can help you decide which place is right for you.

Death Valley National Park

Death Valley National Park is a vast, dramatic, and striking national park. The famous beauty of Death Valley National Park is one of the main draws. It's also known for hiking. See Death Valley National Park travel costs.

Jasper National Park

Jasper National Park is a adventure-filled, stunning, and breathtaking national park. You'll find world class beauty in Jasper National Park as well. Other popular activities here include hiking. See Jasper National Park travel costs.

Death Valley National Park and Jasper National Park: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Nice resorts
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
Pros
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to Icefields Parkway
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights


Is there more to do in Death Valley National Park or Jasper National Park?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Jasper National Park than Death Valley National Park, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Jasper National Park is better known for its hiking and shopping, while Death Valley National Park is more popular for its resorts. Death Valley National Park is well known for being the hottest, driest, and lowest national park in the U.S. Jasper National Park is well known for its wildlife and pristine natural beauty Also, Jasper National Park is famous for Icefields Parkway.

How is Death Valley National Park different from Jasper National Park?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Jasper National Park and Death Valley National Park. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Death Valley National Park or Jasper National Park?

Death Valley National Park
Jasper National Park

For an educational experience, head to a museum or a notable sight in either Death Valley National Park or Jasper National Park.

Death Valley National Park offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. There are ghost towns and visitor centers with informational exhibits, but visitors spend most of their time exploring the outdoor environment.

While most people don't head to Jasper National Park specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. You can learn about the area with a visit to the Jasper Yellowhead Museum & Archive.


Is the Food Better in Death Valley National Park or Jasper National Park? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Death Valley National Park
Jasper National Park

There are opportunities to sample the local cuisine at respectable restaurants in both Death Valley National Park and Jasper National Park.

Death Valley National Park may not make the list for most foodies, but you'll find what you need while you're in town. There are restaurants at Furnace Creek, Stovepipe Wells, and Panamint Springs, but most visitors prefer to bring their own food so that they can enjoy picnicking in a beautiful setting.

Jasper National Park offers some easy restaurants to choose from. There are several decent restaurants and bistros near or in the park. Many are connected to lodges and some offer great views.

Is Death Valley National Park or Jasper National Park Better for Nightlife?

Death Valley National Park
Jasper National Park

Neither Death Valley National Park or Jasper National Park offer decent nightlife.

People don't go to Death Valley National Park for the nightlife. Beyond stargazing and relaxing around a campfire, there is no real nightlife in the area.

Jasper National Park doesn't offer many options. Stargazing and sitting by an open fire is the best way to spend the evening.

Is Death Valley National Park or Jasper National Park Better for Resorts?

Death Valley National Park
Jasper National Park

Death Valley National Park is a national park with a few options for its resorts. However, Jasper National Park is not a resort destination.

Death Valley National Park has a few resort options worth checking out. There are historical inns and lodges in and around the park. The privately owned Inn at Death Valley is a popular option in Furnace Creek. If you stay outside the park, you can expect long drives to get most places.

Jasper National Park is not a resort destination.


Is Death Valley National Park or Jasper National Park Better for Hiking?

Death Valley National Park
Jasper National Park

Jasper National Park is renowned for the nearby hiking options. Also, Death Valley National Park is not as famous, but is still a good national park to visit for its hiking trails.

Many people visit Jasper National Park specifically for its hiking. Hiking is a truly world class experience in this large park. There are miles of trails, both backcountry and more accessible, that allow access to the park's stunning beauty. Whether you're looking for a shorter family-friendly hike, or planning a multi-week backcountry adventure, this park has it all.

Many visitors explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting Death Valley National Park. Hikes will take you past desert landscapes, through canyons, and along sand dunes. The views are spectacular and the setting is other-worldly. Hiking is best between the months of November and March, as temperatures can be high other times of the year, particularly during the summer months.

Is the Shopping Better in Death Valley National Park or Jasper National Park?

Death Valley National Park
Jasper National Park

Jasper National Park is a moderate national park for its shopping areas. However, Death Valley National Park is not a good national park for shopping.

Jasper National Park has some good spots for those that want to go shopping. In town you'll find shops where you can pick up souvenirs or things you may have forgotten.

Shopping in Death Valley National Park can be found for those interested. There are a couple of general stores where you can pick up items that you may need.

Is Death Valley National Park or Jasper National Park More Beautiful?

Death Valley National Park
Jasper National Park

You'll find a similar quality of terrific scenery and beauty in both Death Valley National Park and Jasper National Park.

You'll find world class beauty in Death Valley National Park as well. The striking desert setting offers stunning beauty and breathtaking viewpoints. The park is at its most beautiful when the sun is low during sunrise and sunset.

Jasper National Park is considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. The Canadian Rockies create a stunning backdrop for this beautiful and vast national park.


Is Death Valley National Park or Jasper National Park Better for Families?

Death Valley National Park
Jasper National Park

You'll find excellent kid-friendly activities in either Death Valley National Park or Jasper National Park.

Death Valley National Park is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. Kids will love hiking and exploring the vast desert. There are also ghost towns and abandoned mines that will fascinate kids and adults alike. Junior programs, operated by the National Park Service, also offer interesting and educational programming for kids.

Jasper National Park is a very family-friendly destination. Kids who love running, hiking, and exploring will enjoy a visit to this iconic park. The hiking trails are world class and you'll likely see some wildlife during your trip. Camping with s'mores and hot dogs will make for a memorable family vacation.

Is Death Valley National Park or Jasper National Park Better for Couples?

Death Valley National Park
Jasper National Park

Both Death Valley National Park and Jasper National Park are excellent destinations to visit as a couple.

Death Valley National Park is a very popular place to visit for couples. The stunning desert landscape will take your breathe away, particularly during sunrise and sunset, when the colors are dramatic and striking. In the evening, the sky fills with stars and couples can enjoy a bit of stargazing.

Jasper National Park makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. There are lodges where couples can enjoy a romantic getaway. For the more adventurous, camping is a great way to experience the park. If you enjoy outdoor adventures together, then this is a great place to spend some time in nature.

Is Death Valley National Park or Jasper National Park Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Death Valley National Park
Jasper National Park

Both Death Valley National Park and Jasper National Park are terrific destinations for backpackers.

Death Valley National Park is a very popular national park to visit for backpackers. Backpackers will enjoy hiking and camping in a unique desert environment. There are several campgrounds in the area that range from primitive to developed.

Many backpackers frequent Jasper National Park. Camping is the best way to experience the park in full. You'll be surrounded by nature, and if you're lucky, some wildlife might pass by as well.


Is Death Valley National Park or Jasper National Park Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Death Valley National Park
Jasper National Park

Neither Death Valley National Park or Jasper National Park offer decent public transit.

Public transit is limited or non-existant in Death Valley National Park. There is no public transportation within the park.

Public transit is quite limited in Jasper National Park. If you don't have your own vehicle, a bus tour is your best option for experiencing the park.

Is Death Valley National Park or Jasper National Park a more walkable city?

Death Valley National Park
Jasper National Park

Neither Death Valley National Park or Jasper National Park are walkable places.

Death Valley National Park is not a walkable national park. This is a huge national park that requires a car to get around.

Jasper National Park is not a very walkable national park. The park is large, and a vehicle is necessary to reach most trailheads.

For even more information, also check out Is Death Valley National Park Worth Visiting? and Is Jasper National Park Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Jasper National Park or Death Valley National Park?

How long in Death Valley National Park or Jasper National Park?

In either Death Valley National Park or Jasper National Park, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Jasper National Park than Death Valley National Park because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Death Valley National Park, and 2-5 days is enough time in Jasper National Park.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Jasper National Park than Death Valley National Park 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 Jasper National Park.


  • How many days in Death Valley National Park or Jasper National Park? Ideal Length of Stay
    Death Valley National Park 2-4 
    Jasper National Park 2-5

One day in Death Valley National Park or Jasper National Park?

Many travelers enjoy the when visiting the beautiful destination of Death Valley 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.

In Jasper National Park, many people enjoy the that this breathtaking destination offers. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Lots of people come for the hiking. Hikers are also drawn to this area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.


A weekend in Death Valley National Park or Jasper National Park?

Death Valley National Park is a fun place to experience. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this national park has to offer. This national park offers a variety of activities to choose from.

In Jasper National Park, many people enjoy the that this beautiful destination offers. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything. Many people spend a weekend here. A weekend is often enough time to do most activities.

Five days in Death Valley National Park or Jasper National Park?

Many people visit Death Valley National Park for five days. You'll find around the beautiful national park of Death Valley National Park. 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.

In Jasper National Park, many people enjoy the that this adventure-filled destination offers. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. This is a popular place to visit for five days.Five days is often enough time to do most activities. This national park offers something for everyone.

A week in Death Valley National Park or Jasper National Park?

The striking destination of Death Valley National Park 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.

Travelers enjoy the when visiting the beautiful national park of Jasper National Park. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. Lots of people come for the hiking. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 2-Week Tours from San Francisco, The Best 2-Week Tours from Los Angeles, The Best Luxury Tours to Canada, and The Best Tours for Seniors to Canada.


Which place is cheaper, Jasper National Park or Death Valley National Park?

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

  • Death Valley National Park Prices
    USA Prices
    Jasper National Park Prices
    Canada Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Death Valley National Park $101
    Jasper National Park $99

The average daily cost (per person) in Death Valley National Park is $101, while the average daily cost in Jasper National Park is $99. 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 Death Valley National Park and Jasper National Park in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Death Valley National Park $37
    Jasper National Park $45
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Death Valley National Park $74
    Jasper National Park $90
Compare Hotels in Death Valley National Park and Jasper National Park

Looking for a hotel in Death Valley National Park or Jasper 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 Death Valley National Park


Hotels in Jasper 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.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Jasper National Park Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Death Valley National Park $41
    Jasper National Park $19

Typical Local Transportation Prices in Jasper National Park

Some typical examples of transportation costs in Jasper National Park are as follows:


  • Park Pass
    $14

Is it cheaper to fly into Death Valley National Park or Jasper National Park?

Prices for flights to both Jasper National Park and Death Valley National Park 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
    Death Valley National Park $35
    Jasper National Park $40

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Jasper National Park

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Jasper National Park.

  • Half-Day Jasper Culture Food Tour: $119

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Death Valley National Park $36
    Jasper National Park $7.75

Tours and Activities in Death Valley National Park

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

  • Self-Guided Audio Driving Tour in Death Valley National Park: $20

Tours and Activities in Jasper National Park

Here are a few actual costs in Jasper National Park for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • Jasper National Park Self-Guided Driving Audio Tour: $13
  • Self-Guided Audio Driving Tour in Jasper National Park: $14
  • Icefields Parkway Self-Guided Driving Audio Tour: $17
  • From Jasper: Jasper National Park Wildlife Discovery Tour: $62
  • Secrets of Jasper Snowshoe Tour: $62
  • Jasper Evening Wildlife Tour: $63
  • Morning Jasper National Park Wildlife Tour: $64
  • Jasper National Park Tour Maligne Valley, Medicine Lake with Walk: $67
  • Winter Wildlife Discovery Tour: $67
  • Jasper National Park Tour: Maligne Valley, Medicine Lake and Spirit Island: $67
  • Planetarium and Telescope Combo Tour : $67
  • Jasper Wildlife and Sightseeing Tour with Maligne Lake Hike: $79

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Death Valley National Park $8.57
    Jasper National Park $11


When comparing the travel costs between Death Valley National Park and Jasper National Park, we can see that Death Valley National Park is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in North America, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

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