A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Joshua Tree National Park vs. Denali National Park for Hiking, Backpackers, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Joshua Tree National Park or Denali National Park?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Joshua Tree National Park and Denali National Park can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

Joshua Tree National Park

Joshua Tree National Park is a adventurous, unique, and fascinating national park. The beauty of Joshua Tree National Park is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Visitors also love the hiking. See Joshua Tree National Park travel costs.

Denali National Park

Denali National Park is a rugged, spectacular, and epic park. Denali National Park is considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. It's also popular because of the hiking. See Denali National Park travel costs.

Joshua Tree National Park and Denali National Park: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • 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
  • Nice resorts
  • 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 hiking options


Is there more to do in Joshua Tree National Park or Denali National Park?

Both Denali National Park and Joshua Tree National Park have plenty of things to do for visitors. Both offer a variety of sights, activities, and attractions for tourists. Joshua Tree National Park is more popular for its hiking, while Denali National Park is known for its food, resorts, shopping, and impressive beauty. Joshua Tree National Park is popular for its unique vegetation and large boulders. Denali National Park is popular for its vast wilderness and iconic Alaskan wildlife.

How is Joshua Tree National Park different from Denali National Park?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Joshua Tree National Park
Denali National Park

You'll find a number of decent museums and attractions in both Denali National Park and Joshua Tree National Park.

While most people don't head to Joshua Tree National Park specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. There are a couple of museums in the area that display local art or cultural and historical items.

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 Joshua Tree National Park or Denali National Park? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Joshua Tree National Park
Denali National Park

Denali National Park is a decent place to visit for its restaurants. However, Joshua Tree National Park is lacking in good options for its restaurant scene.

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.

While Joshua Tree National Park is not famous for its food, you'll find what you need there. There aren't any restaurants inside the park, so you'll want to pack your own food and eat at one of the picnic areas.

Is Joshua Tree National Park or Denali National Park Better for Nightlife?

Joshua Tree National Park
Denali National Park

Neither Joshua Tree National Park or Denali National Park offer decent nightlife.

Joshua Tree National Park doesn't offer many options. Stargazing and gathering around campfires are the most popular activities during the evening.

Things get quiet in the evenings in Denali National Park. Visitors come to the park to see the nature, not for the nightlife.

Is Joshua Tree National Park or Denali National Park Better for Resorts?

Joshua Tree National Park
Denali National Park

Denali National Park is a park with good options for its luxury resorts. However, Joshua Tree National Park is not a resort destination.

Denali National Park has a few great resort options. 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.

Joshua Tree National Park is not a resort destination.


Is Joshua Tree National Park or Denali National Park Better for Hiking?

Joshua Tree National Park
Denali National Park

Joshua Tree National Park is a must-visit destination for hiking. Also, Denali National Park is not as popular, but is still a nice park for the nearby hiking options.

Many people visit Joshua Tree National Park specifically for its hiking. There are a wide range of hikes that include easy, moderate, and strenuous options. Some of the best hikes include Discovery Trail, Boy Scout Trail, and Black Rock Canyon Panorama Loop.

Denali National Park has hiking trails worth exploring. 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.

Is the Shopping Better in Joshua Tree National Park or Denali National Park?

Joshua Tree National Park
Denali National Park

Denali National Park is a decent place to visit for its shopping areas. However, Joshua Tree National Park is lacking in good options for shopping.

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.

Joshua Tree National Park has some shopping areas for those that seek them out. There is a park store where you can pick up gifts or other items.

Is Joshua Tree National Park or Denali National Park More Beautiful?

Joshua Tree National Park
Denali National Park

Denali National Park is renowned for its scenery and beauty. Also, Joshua Tree National Park is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its scenery and beauty.

Denali National Park is considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Home to the highest peak in North America, the park is famous for its dramatic beauty and rugged landscapes.

Joshua Tree National Park is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. There are unique Joshua Trees throughout the park as well as beautiful rock formations and striking views.


Is Joshua Tree National Park or Denali National Park Better for Families?

Joshua Tree National Park
Denali National Park

Joshua Tree National Park is a great national park for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Denali National Park is not as popular, but is still a nice park for its family-friendly activities.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Joshua Tree National Park is very family-friendly. With its giant boulders that kids can scramble on and its Dr. Seuss-like Joshua Trees, this really is nature's best playground. There are also kid-friendly hikes and Junior Ranger Programs that will both educate and entertain the kids.

Denali National Park is a family-friendly place to visit. 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.

Is Joshua Tree National Park or Denali National Park Better for Couples?

Joshua Tree National Park
Denali National Park

Both Joshua Tree National Park and Denali National Park are superb destinations for a couple's getaway.

Joshua Tree National Park makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Couples who enjoy the outdoors, adventure sports like rock climbing, and hiking through spectacular landscapes will find this to be the ultimate romantic destination.

Couples visit Denali National Park frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. Couples who enjoy outdoor adventures and stunning scenery will find the ultimate romance in this impressive park.

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

Joshua Tree National Park
Denali National Park

Joshua Tree National Park and Denali National Park are both amazing destinations for backpackers.

A large number of backpackers visit Joshua Tree National Park, as it is a very popular national park for budget travelers. There are campgrounds and hiking trails that are popular with backpackers and nature enthusiasts.

Denali National Park is a mecca for backpackers and budget travelers. There are millions of acres in the park as well as campgrounds, hostels, and vast backcountry (which requires a permit).


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

Joshua Tree National Park
Denali National Park

Denali National Park is a decent place to visit for times when you don't have a car. However, Joshua Tree National Park is lacking in good options for its public transit.

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 limited or non-existant in Joshua Tree National Park. There's no reliable public transportation in the park.

Is Joshua Tree National Park or Denali National Park a more walkable city?

Joshua Tree National Park
Denali National Park

Neither Joshua Tree National Park or Denali National Park are walkable places.

Joshua Tree National Park is not a very walkable national park. You need a car to truly explore the park.

Denali National Park is not a walkable national 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 Joshua Tree National Park Worth Visiting? and Is Denali National Park Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Denali National Park or Joshua Tree National Park?

How long in Joshua Tree National Park or Denali National Park?

It's fun to spend time in either Joshua Tree National Park or Denali National Park. In our opinion, Denali National Park has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Denali National Park than Joshua Tree National Park. However, 2-4 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Denali National Park than Joshua Tree 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 Denali National Park.


  • How many days in Joshua Tree National Park or Denali National Park? Ideal Length of Stay
    Joshua Tree National Park 2-4 
    Denali National Park 2-4

One day in Joshua Tree National Park or Denali National Park?

Many travelers enjoy the when visiting the beautiful destination of Joshua Tree 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.

Visitors enjoy the when visiting the rugged 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. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.


A weekend in Joshua Tree National Park or Denali National Park?

Joshua Tree 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.

Visitors enjoy the when visiting the destination of Denali National Park. 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.

Five days in Joshua Tree National Park or Denali National Park?

Many people visit Joshua Tree National Park for five days. You'll find around the beautiful national park of Joshua Tree National Park. Don't miss the hiking, as that's what most people do. 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.

Denali National Park is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything. It offers something for everyone.

A week in Joshua Tree National Park or Denali National Park?

The fascinating destination of Joshua Tree National Park offers . Hikers are also drawn to this area. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. Don't miss the hiking, as that's what most people do. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Denali 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.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in United States of America, The Best 2-Week Tours in United States of America, The Best 3-Week Tours in United States of America, and The Best Bicycle Tours in United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Denali National Park or Joshua Tree National Park?

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

  • Joshua Tree National Park Prices
    USA Prices
    Denali National Park Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Joshua Tree National Park $177
    Denali National Park $260

The average daily cost (per person) in Joshua Tree National Park is $177, while the average daily cost in Denali National Park is $260. 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 Joshua Tree National Park and Denali National Park in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Joshua Tree National Park $87
    Denali National Park $116
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Joshua Tree National Park $174
    Denali National Park $232
Compare Hotels in Joshua Tree National Park and Denali National Park

Looking for a hotel in Joshua Tree National Park or Denali 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 Joshua Tree National Park


Hotels in Denali 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.
    Joshua Tree National Park $47
    Denali National Park $76

Is it cheaper to fly into Joshua Tree National Park or Denali National Park?

Prices for flights to both Denali National Park and Joshua Tree 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
    Joshua Tree National Park $60
    Denali National Park $98

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Joshua Tree National Park $27
    Denali National Park $30

Tours and Activities in Joshua Tree National Park

For Joshua Tree National Park, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • From San Diego: Joshua Tree National Park Private Tour: $949
  • Rappelling Experience: $255

Tours and Activities in Denali National Park

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

  • 2.5-Hour Denali Wilderness ATV Adventure Tour: $135
  • 3 Hour Naturalist Walking Tour in Denali National Park: $139
  • 4 Hour Off-Trail Hiking Tour in Denali: $209
  • 5-Hour Mountain Hiking Tour in the Alaska Range - Denali Area: $199
  • Alaskan Back Country Side by Side ATV Adventure with Meal: $163
  • Classic ATV Adventure with Back Country Dining: $163
  • Denali 4 Hour Hiking Adventure with Naturalist Guide: $160
  • Denali 5 Hour Hiking Tour with Naturalist Guide: $182
  • Denali ATV Trailblazer 3.5 Hour Tour : $178
  • Denali Husky Kennel & Brewpub Visit – Half-Day Experience: $130
  • Denali Naturalist Walking Tour: $132
  • Denali Park Zipline Adventure: $190

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Joshua Tree National Park $4.93
    Denali National Park $12


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Joshua Tree National Park and Denali National Park, we can see that Denali National Park is more expensive. And not only is Joshua Tree National Park much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Joshua Tree National Park would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Joshua Tree 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 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 Joshua Tree National Park.

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


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