A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Denali National Park vs. Saskatoon for Backpackers, Couples, Attractions, and Food

Should you visit Denali National Park or Saskatoon?

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 Denali National Park and Saskatoon can help you decide which place is right for you.

Denali National Park

Denali National Park is a vast, rugged, and spectacular park. You'll find world class beauty in Denali National Park as well. And you can't forget about the hiking. See Denali National Park travel costs.

Saskatoon

Saskatoon is a friendly, authentic, and cultural city. Visitors also love the museums, nightlife, and food. See Saskatoon travel costs.

Denali National Park and Saskatoon: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Nice resorts
  • Good for hiking
  • Known for its beauty
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to Denali (Mount McKinley)
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less walkable
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Very walkable
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers


Is there more to do in Denali National Park or Saskatoon?

Both Saskatoon and Denali National Park have plenty of things to do for travelers. Both provide a wide variety of sights and activities for tourists. Denali National Park is better known for its resorts, hiking, and impressive beauty, while Saskatoon is more popular for its museums and attractions, food, nightlife, and shopping. Denali National Park is more touristy than Saskatoon and is popular for its vast wilderness and iconic Alaskan wildlife. Saskatoon is well known for its agriculture and outdoor spaces.

How is Denali National Park different from Saskatoon?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Denali National Park or Saskatoon?

Denali National Park
Saskatoon

Saskatoon is very good for its historical sights. However, Denali National Park is not known for its sights and museums.

Saskatoon offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. There are some museums and historical sites to check out such as Fort Battleford National Historic Site, Batoche National Historic Site, and the Saskatchewan Indigenous Cultural Centre.

Denali National Park offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. Denali's Museum Collection includes more than 25,000 different items that reflect the region's history, culture, and geology.


Is the Food Better in Denali National Park or Saskatoon? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Denali National Park
Saskatoon

Saskatoon is very good for its local flavors and cuisine. However, Denali National Park is not known for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Saskatoon has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. There's a great food scene around town with diverse restaurants and cuisines to choose from. You can sample dim sum, Mexican, Middle Eastern, Indian, and many more.

Denali National Park may not make the list for most foodies, but you'll find what you need while you're in town. During the summer months there are restaurants open along Highway 3 as well as the Morino Grill near the Denali Visitor Center.

Is Denali National Park or Saskatoon Better for Nightlife?

Denali National Park
Saskatoon

Saskatoon is very good for nightlife and partying. However, Denali National Park is not known for its evening party scene.

If you're looking for night time activities Saskatoon has a few options to choose from. There are enough clubs and bars around town to keep things entertaining. Most cater to a younger crowd, but the vibe is fun and full of energy.

People don't go to Denali National Park for the nightlife. Visitors come to the park to see the nature, not for the nightlife.

Is Denali National Park or Saskatoon Better for Resorts?

Denali National Park
Saskatoon

Denali National Park is a good destination for its resorts. However, Saskatoon is not a resort destination.

With a selection of resorts, Denali National Park makes a nice vacation spot. Most visitors stay nearby the Denali Park Entrance. It has the most affordable hotels and lodges, some of which have a lot of personality. Alternatively, you could stay in the more remote area of Kantishna. These lodges are more expensive and all-inclusive, but they are also far away from most conveniences.

Saskatoon is not a resort destination.


Is Denali National Park or Saskatoon Better for Hiking?

Denali National Park
Saskatoon

Denali National Park is a good destination for the nearby hiking options. However, Saskatoon is not a hiking destination.

Denali National Park offers some nice hiking trails. If you're looking for a marked trail, there are limited options within the park. Those that do exist are located near the park entrance and are usually just a couple of miles long. Off-trail hiking is what makes for the most memorable experience. Make sure you stop off at the visitor center for information and knowledge before you venture into the wilderness without a trail. For obvious reasons, you should fully understand what this entails before beginning your adventure.

Saskatoon is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Denali National Park or Saskatoon?

Denali National Park
Saskatoon

Saskatoon is very good for its shopping opportunities. However, Denali National Park is not known for its shopping areas.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Saskatoon. A number of brands have opened stores in the downtown area in recent years, so the shopping scene continues to grow and diversify.

Denali National Park has some good spots for those that want to go shopping. There are several park stores and shops in and near the park where you can pick up gifts, books, and souvenirs.

Is Denali National Park or Saskatoon More Beautiful?

Denali National Park
Saskatoon

Denali National Park is an unbeatable place for its scenery and beauty. However, Saskatoon is not a destination known for its beauty.

You'll find world class beauty in Denali National Park as well. Home to the highest peak in North America, the park is famous for its dramatic beauty and rugged landscapes.

Saskatoon is not a destination known for its beauty.


Is Denali National Park or Saskatoon Better for Families?

Denali National Park
Saskatoon

You'll find notable kid-friendly activities in either Denali National Park or Saskatoon.

Denali National Park offers lots of family activities. Most people visit the park as part of a tour, so it's important to book a tour that is designed with families in mind. This will help ensure the kids stay entertained even during long bus rides.

Saskatoon is a family-friendly place to visit. It's filled with indoor and outdoor play areas. Make sure you check out the Nutrien Wonderhub as well as the countless playgrounds around town.

Is Denali National Park or Saskatoon Better for Couples?

Denali National Park
Saskatoon

Denali National Park is a well-known place for its romantic activities. Also, Saskatoon is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for couples.

Denali National Park is a very popular place to visit for couples. Couples who enjoy outdoor adventures and stunning scenery will find the ultimate romance in this impressive park.

Saskatoon is a good park for couples to visit. There are plenty of evening activities like dining out at a nice restaurant or taking in a show at the Persephone Theatre.

Is Denali National Park or Saskatoon Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Denali National Park
Saskatoon

Denali National Park is an unbeatable place for backpackers. However, Saskatoon is not a good city for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers and budget travelers come from all over the world to visit Denali National Park. There are millions of acres in the park as well as campgrounds, hostels, and vast backcountry (which requires a permit).

Saskatoon is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. Most backpackers skip this town in favor of more popular destinations.


Is Denali National Park or Saskatoon Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Denali National Park
Saskatoon

Denali National Park and Saskatoon both offer respectable public transit to get you around.

Public transit is mostly limited in Denali National Park. There are free shuttle buses that leave from the entrance area, but many visitors organize a tour to get around.

Public transit is generally limited in Saskatoon. There is a bus system around town.

Is Denali National Park or Saskatoon a more walkable city?

Denali National Park
Saskatoon

Saskatoon is very good for its high level of walkability. However, Denali National Park is not known for its ease of walking around.

Saskatoon is a somewhat walkable place. The downtown is walkable and easy to explore on foot.

Denali National Park is not a walkable park. The park is vast and you need some form of transportation to get around, whether it's a private vehicle or a pre-arranged tour.

For even more information, also check out Is Denali National Park Worth Visiting? and Is Saskatoon Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Saskatoon or Denali National Park?

How long in Denali National Park or Saskatoon?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Denali National Park and Saskatoon. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Denali National Park than in Saskatoon. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Denali National Park, and 1-3 days is enough time in Saskatoon.

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

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


  • How many days in Denali National Park or Saskatoon? Ideal Length of Stay
    Denali National Park 2-4 
    Saskatoon 1-3

One day in Denali National Park or Saskatoon?

You'll find around the park of Denali National Park. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Many travelers enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the destination of Saskatoon. 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 Saskatoon has to offer.


A weekend in Denali National Park or Saskatoon?

You'll find around the epic destination of Denali National Park. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this park has to offer. This park offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Saskatoon is a fun place to experience. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in Denali National Park or Saskatoon?

Travelers enjoy the when visiting the spectacular park of Denali National Park. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Many people visit Saskatoon for five days. You'll find museums and nightlife around the city of Saskatoon. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

A week in Denali National Park or Saskatoon?

Denali National Park is a popular choice for travelers. 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.

The cultural destination of Saskatoon offers nightlife and food. 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.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Historical Tours in United States of America, The Best 10-Day Tours in United States of America, The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Canada, and The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in Canada.


Which place is cheaper, Saskatoon or Denali National Park?

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

  • Denali National Park Prices
    USA Prices
    Saskatoon Prices
    Canada Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Denali National Park $260
    Saskatoon $149

The average daily cost (per person) in Denali National Park is $260, while the average daily cost in Saskatoon is $149. 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 Denali National Park and Saskatoon in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Denali National Park $116
    Saskatoon $54
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Denali National Park $232
    Saskatoon $108
Compare Hotels in Denali National Park and Saskatoon

Looking for a hotel in Denali National Park or Saskatoon? 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 Denali National Park


Hotels in Saskatoon


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: Saskatoon Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Denali National Park $76
    Saskatoon $32

Is it cheaper to fly into Denali National Park or Saskatoon?

Prices for flights to both Saskatoon and Denali 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
    Denali National Park $98
    Saskatoon $54

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Denali National Park $30
    Saskatoon $17

Tours and Activities in Denali National Park

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Denali National Park.

  • Denali Husky Kennel & Brewpub Visit – Half-Day Experience: $130
  • Denali Naturalist Walking Tour: $132
  • 2.5-Hour Denali Wilderness ATV Adventure Tour: $135
  • Midnight Sun ATV Adventure 2.5 Hour Tour: $135
  • 3 Hour Naturalist Walking Tour in Denali National Park: $139
  • Wilds of Alaska Classic ATV Adventure: $153
  • Winter Side by Side ATV Tour: $160
  • Denali 4 Hour Hiking Adventure with Naturalist Guide: $160
  • Classic ATV Adventure with Back Country Dining: $163
  • Alaskan Back Country Side by Side ATV Adventure with Meal: $163
  • Denali ATV Trailblazer 3.5 Hour Tour : $178
  • Denali 5 Hour Hiking Tour with Naturalist Guide: $182

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Denali National Park $12
    Saskatoon $9.60


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

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


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