A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Glacier National Park vs. Yellowstone National Park for Hiking, Backpackers, Resorts, and Families

Should you visit Glacier National Park or Yellowstone National Park?

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

Should I visit Glacier National Park or Yellowstone 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.

Glacier National Park

Glacier National Park is a gorgeous, stunning, and breathtaking park. The famous beauty of Glacier National Park is one of the main draws. Other popular activities here include hiking. See Glacier National Park travel costs.

Yellowstone National Park

Yellowstone National Park is a stunning, breathtaking, and vast national park. You'll find world class beauty in Yellowstone National Park as well. It's also known for hiking. See Yellowstone National Park travel costs.

Glacier National Park and Yellowstone National Park: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Glacier National Park or Yellowstone National Park?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Glacier National Park than Yellowstone National Park, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Glacier National Park is better known for its museums and attractions and shopping, while Yellowstone National Park is more popular for its resorts and hiking. Glacier National Park is well known for its miles of hiking trails, impressive glaciers, and pristine lakes. Also, Glacier National Park is famous for Going-to-the-Sun Road. Yellowstone National Park is well known for its iconic geysers, breathtaking waterfalls, world-class hikes, and diverse wildlife.

How is Glacier National Park different from Yellowstone National Park?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Glacier National Park or Yellowstone National Park?

Glacier National Park is not so good for its museums and landmarks. However, Yellowstone National Park does not have museums and landmarks.

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.

Yellowstone National Park does not have museums and landmarks.

Is the Food Better in Glacier National Park or Yellowstone National Park? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Both Glacier National Park and Yellowstone National Park offer respectable 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.

You'll find the standard options when it comes to food in Yellowstone National Park. This is a large park and there are a number of dining options available both inside and just outside of the park. Many places are seasonal so your options will be highest during the summer months. Like most national park venues, prices can be high and the quality is variable. It's recommended that you pack your own food and plan to picnic.

Is Glacier National Park or Yellowstone National Park Better for Nightlife?

Neither Glacier National Park or Yellowstone National Park offer decent nightlife.

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

Yellowstone National Park doesn't offer many options. Things quiet down quickly at night and you won't find many places to go in the evening.

Is Glacier National Park or Yellowstone National Park Better for Resorts?

Yellowstone National Park is notable for its resorts. Also, Glacier National Park is not as famous, but is still a good park to visit for its luxury resorts.

Yellowstone National Park is known as a popular and fun resort destination. It is a large national park, and there are several impressive lodges nearby. Reservations are recommended well in advance. Within the park, Old Faithful Inn, Roosevelt Lodge, Lake Yellowstone Hotel, and Mammoth Hot Springs Hotel are all nice options.

With a selection of resorts, Glacier National Park makes a nice vacation spot. There are several lodges, cabins, and inns near or within the park, but reservations are recommended well in advance.

Is Glacier National Park or Yellowstone National Park Better for Hiking?

Yellowstone National Park 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 Yellowstone National Park specifically for its hiking, as the natural beauty is well-known. The park is huge, and there are countless hikes throughout. From short strolls to lengthy endeavors, there really is something for everyone. If you want to see the geysers, some of the best hikes are Grand Prismatic Overlook Trail, the Upper Geyser Basin and Old Faithful Observation Point Loop, and the Lone Star Geyser Trail. For waterfalls you can check out Brink of the Lower Falls Trail, the North Rim Trail, and Fairy Falls 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 Glacier National Park or Yellowstone National Park?

Glacier National Park is a park with a few options for its shopping areas. However, Yellowstone National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

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

Yellowstone National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Glacier National Park or Yellowstone National Park More Beautiful?

Glacier National Park and Yellowstone National Park both are comparable with their first-rate scenery and beauty.

You'll find world class beauty in Glacier National Park as well. This is one of the most stunning national parks in the United States with its many pristine lakes, striking mountain peaks, and breathtaking views.

Yellowstone National Park is considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. With its spectacular geysers, colorful springs, and unique wildlife, the park really is a beautiful place to visit.

Is Glacier National Park or Yellowstone National Park Better for Families?

Yellowstone National Park is notable for its family-friendly activities. Also, Glacier National Park is not as famous, but is still a good park to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

Yellowstone National Park is a very family-friendly place to visit. Kids who enjoy the outdoors and exploring new environments will appreciate a visit to this park. The geysers are fascinating for everyone and the waterfalls are breathtaking. There are ranger shows and other activities that are great for kids as well. Make sure you stop by the Visitor's Centers.

Glacier National Park is a family-friendly park. 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 Glacier National Park or Yellowstone National Park Better for Couples?

With fun activities for couples, both Glacier National Park and Yellowstone National Park make for a high quality place to visit.

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.

Yellowstone National Park makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. This park is a beautiful and romantic destination for couples who enjoy the outdoors. There are world-renowned hikes and breathtaking views. There are also lodges in the area that make for a romantic stay.

Is Glacier National Park or Yellowstone National Park Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Both Glacier National Park and Yellowstone National Park are first-rate destinations for backpackers.

Glacier National Park is a mecca for backpackers and budget travelers. 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.

With so many budget-friendly offerings, Yellowstone National Park is extremely popular for backpackers. Backpackers will appreciate the campgrounds and affordable facilities that are found around the park. Reservations are recommended well in advance, particularly if you're hoping to stay inside the park.

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

Glacier National Park is a park with a few options for its public transit. However, Yellowstone National Park is not particularly known for times when you don't have a car.

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.

Public transit is quite limited in Yellowstone National Park. There is no public transportation service available in the park. There are private tour options available.

Is Glacier National Park or Yellowstone National Park a more walkable city?

Neither Glacier National Park or Yellowstone National Park are walkable places.

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

Yellowstone National Park is not a very walkable park. This is among the largest national parks and a car is an absolute must if you hope to experience the different landscapes.

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

Should I spend more time in Yellowstone National Park or Glacier National Park?

How long in Glacier National Park or Yellowstone National Park?

Both Glacier National Park and Yellowstone National Park have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Yellowstone National Park than in Glacier National Park. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Glacier National Park, and 5-7 days is enough time in Yellowstone National Park.

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

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

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

One day in Glacier National Park or Yellowstone National Park?

Visitors enjoy the when visiting the gorgeous park of Glacier National Park. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

In Yellowstone National Park, you'll find . You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. One reason most visitors come is for the hiking. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

A weekend in Glacier National Park or Yellowstone National Park?

Visitors enjoy the when visiting the destination of Glacier National Park. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. Anyone can find something fun to do here. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend. Because of this, a weekend is usually enough time for a trip here.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Yellowstone National Park. One reason most visitors come is for the hiking. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. It offers something for everyone.

Five days in Glacier National Park or Yellowstone National Park?

Glacier National Park is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. 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. It offers something for everyone.

Yellowstone National Park is a fun place to experience. One reason most visitors come is for the hiking. If you have five days, this is a great place to go. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. In five days, you should have a good grasp of this national park. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

A week in Glacier National Park or Yellowstone National Park?

Glacier National Park is a popular choice for travelers. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

In Yellowstone National Park, you'll find . It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. Plenty of people spend one week in the area when traveling. One week should give you a good understanding of everything this national park has to offer.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 3-Week Tours in United States of America, The Best Bicycle Tours in United States of America, Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in United States of America, and The Best Coach Bus Tours in United States of America.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Glacier National Park and Yellowstone National Park, we can see that Yellowstone National Park 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 Yellowstone National Park would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Yellowstone National Park 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 Glacier National Park Expensive? and Is Yellowstone National Park Expensive?.