A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Joshua Tree National Park vs. Whistler for Hiking, Families, Backpackers, and Couples

Should you visit Joshua Tree National Park or Whistler?

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 Whistler 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 fascinating, adventurous, and unique national park. Joshua Tree National Park is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for hiking. See Joshua Tree National Park travel costs.

Whistler

Whistler is a charming, adventurous, and outdoorsy village. This is a charming small with plenty of activities, too. With stunning beauty, Whistler attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the skiing, nightlife, and food. See Whistler travel costs.

Joshua Tree National Park and Whistler: Pros and Cons

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

Visitors will usually find more to do in Whistler than Joshua Tree National Park, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Whistler is more touristy than Joshua Tree National Park and is popular for its world renowned skiing and snowboarding. Also, Whistler is famous for Cloudraker Skybridge. Joshua Tree National Park is well known for its unique vegetation and large boulders.

How is Joshua Tree National Park different from Whistler?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Joshua Tree National Park or Whistler Better for Skiing?

Whistler is renowned for skiing and snowboarding. However, Joshua Tree National Park is not a skiing destination.

Visitors will find world class skiing in Whistler. Whistler is the largest ski resort in North America. It covers a vast area that includes two peaks - Whistler and Blackcomb. The slopes are connected by lifts and gondolas and there are options for every level, from beginner to expert.

Joshua Tree National Park is not a skiing destination.

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

You'll find a number of respectable museums and attractions in both Whistler 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.

Whistler offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. There is a local museum where you can learn about the areas culture and heritage.

Is the Food Better in Joshua Tree National Park or Whistler? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Whistler is a very popular place for its restaurants. However, Joshua Tree National Park is lacking in good options for its restaurant scene.

Whistler has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. There are many great restaurants and pubs that serve local dishes like Whistler herring, meatloaf, and Artic char fish. There are casual eateries as well as fine dining with upscale cuisine.

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 Whistler Better for Nightlife?

Whistler is a very popular place for its evening party scene. However, Joshua Tree National Park is lacking in good options for nightlife.

Whistler has a large number of nightlife venues. After a day on the slopes, you can enjoy the lively nightlife that includes après ski bars, nightclubs, and late night parties.

Things get quiet in the evenings in Joshua Tree National Park. Stargazing and gathering around campfires are the most popular activities during the evening.

Is Joshua Tree National Park or Whistler Better for Resorts?

Whistler is a very popular place for its luxury resorts. However, Joshua Tree National Park is not a resort destination.

In Whistler, you'll find some of the region's top resorts. There's a large selection of resorts that you can choose from. Many have pools and hot tubs and range from romantic to family-friendly.

Joshua Tree National Park is not a resort destination.

Is Joshua Tree National Park or Whistler Better for Hiking?

Both Joshua Tree National Park and Whistler are destinations which offer first-rate hiking.

Around Joshua Tree National Park visitors will find world-class hiking trails. 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.

Whistler is well-known for its hiking and trekking. During the warmer seasons there are miles of hiking trails that take you through both Whistler and Blackcomb Mountains. Many trails are accessible by gondola and you'll find great views and stunning vistas. Trails range from short family-friendly options to strenuous and adventurous routes.

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

Whistler is a village with good options for its shopping areas. However, Joshua Tree National Park is lacking in good options for shopping.

Whistler has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. The village offers great shopping where you can pick up local items or any ski gear you may have forgotten.

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 Whistler More Beautiful?

You'll find a similar quality of high quality scenery and beauty in both Joshua Tree National Park and Whistler.

With stunning beauty, Joshua Tree National Park attracts visitors from all around. There are unique Joshua Trees throughout the park as well as beautiful rock formations and striking views.

Whistler is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. The town sits in a valley that is surrounded by stunning mountains and impressive glaciers.

Is Joshua Tree National Park or Whistler Better for Families?

Whistler is renowned for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Joshua Tree National Park is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

Whistler is an extremely popular village to visit for families. Kids will love the winter activities like skiing, dog sledding, and bobsledding. There's also an ice skating rink, climbing gym, and tons of kid-friendly restaurants.

Joshua Tree National Park is a very family-friendly place to visit. 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.

Is Joshua Tree National Park or Whistler Better for Couples?

Both Joshua Tree National Park and Whistler are high quality 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 Whistler frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. Couples who enjoy an adventure will love the year-round outdoor sports. There are also romantic spas, fine dining, and scenic gondola rides.

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

Joshua Tree National Park is renowned for backpackers. Also, Whistler is not as famous, but is still a good village to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Joshua Tree National Park is a mecca for backpackers and budget travelers. There are campgrounds and hiking trails that are popular with backpackers and nature enthusiasts.

Many backpackers visit Whistler. There are several hostels in the area that are perfect for backpackers and budget travelers.

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

Whistler 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 Whistler. There's a bus system that connects the town to other nearby neighborhoods.

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 Whistler a more walkable city?

Whistler is a very popular place for its ease of walking around. However, Joshua Tree National Park is lacking in good options for its walkability.

Whistler is a very walkable destination. It's a compact town that's easy to explore on foot.

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

For even more information, also check out Is Joshua Tree National Park Worth Visiting? and Is Whistler Worth Visiting?.

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

How long in Joshua Tree National Park or Whistler?

In either Joshua Tree National Park or Whistler, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Whistler than Joshua Tree National Park because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Joshua Tree National Park, and 3-5 days is enough time in Whistler.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Whistler 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 Whistler.

One day in Joshua Tree National Park or Whistler?

The beautiful national park of Joshua Tree National Park offers . Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the charming village of Whistler. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. 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 Whistler?

Joshua Tree National Park is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this national park makes for a great vacation. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Joshua Tree National Park, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Visitors enjoy the shopping and skiing when visiting the destination of Whistler. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. Anyone can find something fun to do here. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

Five days in Joshua Tree National Park or Whistler?

Joshua Tree National Park is a popular choice for travelers. It's no surprise that hiking is why people visit. Five days 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. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Whistler is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have five days, this village makes for a great vacation. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. Because of this, five days is usually enough time for a trip here. It offers something for everyone.

A week in Joshua Tree National Park or Whistler?

Joshua Tree National Park is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that hiking is why people visit. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This national park offers something for everyone.

Whistler 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 Contiki Tours to Canada, and The Best G Adventures Tours to Canada.

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

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 Whistler Expensive?.