A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Pocono Mountains vs. Hope for Hiking, Families, Couples, and Backpackers

Should you visit Pocono Mountains or Hope?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Pocono Mountains and Hope 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.

Pocono Mountains

Pocono Mountains is a relaxing, scenic, and beautiful region. Pocono Mountains is a gorgeous place to visit. Other reasons to visit include shopping, museums, and skiing. See Pocono Mountains travel costs.

Hope

Hope is a friendly, local, and small town. And you can't forget about the hiking. See Hope travel costs.

Pocono Mountains and Hope: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular for skiing
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Nice resorts
  • Good for hiking
  • Known for its beauty
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
Pros
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less popular for nightlife


Is there more to do in Pocono Mountains or Hope?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Pocono Mountains. Although Pocono Mountains and Hope are popular destinations, Pocono Mountains has more sights and attractions for tourists. Pocono Mountains is more touristy than Hope and is popular for its hiking trails, boating and fishing, and small towns. It is also well known for Bushkill Falls. Hope is famous for its chainsaw carvings and being the filming location of "Rambo."

How is Pocono Mountains different from Hope?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Hope and Pocono Mountains. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Is Pocono Mountains or Hope Better for Skiing?

Pocono Mountains
Hope

Pocono Mountains is a great region for skiing. However, Hope is not a skiing destination.

Pocono Mountains offers world-class skiing that is fun for everyone. There are a number of ski resorts in the area that offer family-friendly skiing or more advanced options. Some of the most popular ski areas are Big Boulder, Blue Mountain, Camelback Mountain, and Jack Frost Mountain.

Hope is not a skiing destination.


Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Pocono Mountains or Hope?

Pocono Mountains
Hope

Pocono Mountains is very good for its historical sights. However, Hope is not known for its sights and museums.

Pocono Mountains is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. Visiting a local museum is a great way to learn about the area's history and Native American population. For a glimpse back in time, you can visit the Asa Packer Mansion, Grey Towers National Historic Landmark, or Columns Museum. The Old Jail Museum is a fascinating place to visit and even offers ghost tours. The Pocono Indian Museum and Quiet Valley Living Historical Farm are both worth a visit as well.

Hope offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. You can check out Hopes Art Gallery, The Sunshine Valley Tashme Museum, or the Hope Museum.

Is the Food Better in Pocono Mountains or Hope? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Pocono Mountains
Hope

Pocono Mountains is very good for its local flavors and cuisine. However, Hope is not known for its local cuisine and restaurants.

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around Pocono Mountains. Family-friendly restaurants are common. Many serve up casual American cuisine like burgers or pasta. There are also more upscale restaurants, some with impressive views, that will elevate your culinary experience. For a local experience, find a restaurant with a seasonal menu that makes the most of the local ingredients.

You'll find the standard options when it comes to food in Hope. There's a decent selection of casual restaurants with basic dishes and local cuisine.

Is Pocono Mountains or Hope Better for Nightlife?

Pocono Mountains
Hope

Evening events are reasonable in both Pocono Mountains and Hope.

Most people don't head to Pocono Mountains specifically for the nightlife scene, but you can find a few options. There are some resorts with casinos and bars as well as local breweries and bars. You'll also find a theater or two in the area.

Those looking for nightlife will find a few places to hang out in Hope. It's a small town but there are some local pubs and bars.


Is Pocono Mountains or Hope Better for Resorts?

Pocono Mountains
Hope

Pocono Mountains is very good for its luxury resorts. However, Hope is not a resort destination.

Pocono Mountains has a handful of resorts to choose from. Resorts range from family-friendly to romantic. Many have indoor pools or even water parks. Some also have spas, restaurants, and plenty of amenities.

Hope is not a resort destination.

Is Pocono Mountains or Hope Better for Hiking?

Pocono Mountains
Hope

Both Pocono Mountains and Hope are destinations which offer superb hiking.

Pocono Mountains is a popular spot for hiking. There are miles of hiking trails that take you through forests or to spectacular waterfalls. Trails range from easy to challenging and each offers a great way to escape into nature. Some of the more popular trails are found in Tobyhanna State Park and Promised Land State Park. The Appalachian Trail also passes through the area.

Many visitors explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting Hope. There are a range of hikes in the area, like more challenging routes such as Hope Mountain and Wells Peak. For a more casual hike you can check out Rotary Trail, Thacker Marsh Trail, and the Othello Tunnels.

Is the Shopping Better in Pocono Mountains or Hope?

Pocono Mountains
Hope

Pocono Mountains is very good for shopping. However, Hope is not known for its shopping opportunities.

Plenty of visitors enjoy shopping while in Pocono Mountains. Head to the towns for some the best local shopping. The downtown areas in each of the major towns - Jim Thorpe, Stroudsburg, Milford, and Honesdale - have local vendors, antique shops, and the occasional flea market or farmer's market.

If you're looking to go shopping, Hope has some nice offerings. It's a small town, but there are places to peak up anything you may have forgotten.


Is Pocono Mountains or Hope More Beautiful?

Pocono Mountains
Hope

Pocono Mountains is very good for its scenery and beauty. However, Hope is not a destination known for its beauty.

Pocono Mountains is a gorgeous place to visit. The mountains, valleys, lakes, and streams offer impressive beauty and a peaceful setting.

Hope is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Pocono Mountains or Hope Better for Families?

Pocono Mountains
Hope

Both Pocono Mountains and Hope are superb to visit with kids.

Pocono Mountains is a very kid-friendly region. There's horseback riding in the warmer seasons and kid-friendly skiing in the winter. The kids will also enjoy the hiking, ziplining, and indoor waterparks in the area. Animal farms and petting zoos are also popular, particularly with the younger kids.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Hope. Kids will love enjoying the outdoors just as much as the adults. You can also visit the Hope Museum or the Coquihalla Gorge.

Is Pocono Mountains or Hope Better for Couples?

Pocono Mountains
Hope

Both Pocono Mountains and Hope are superb destinations for a couple's getaway.

Pocono Mountains is a very popular place to visit for couples. Romantic resorts, cozy cabins, and luxurious spas all make this a wonderful couples destination. Outdoor enthusiasts will enjoy the hiking and adventure sports in the area, while those looking for a more relaxed experience will appreciate the dining and cultural activities.

Hope makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Couples who enjoy adventures and nature will love a few days in this beautiful area.


Is Pocono Mountains or Hope Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Pocono Mountains
Hope

Both Pocono Mountains and Hope are superb destinations for backpackers.

Pocono Mountains is a great region to visit for backpackers. There's no shortage of campgrounds, cabins, and hiking opportunities that will let backpackers enjoy a bit of nature.

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers visit Hope. There are many camping and backpacking opportunities in the area.

Is Pocono Mountains or Hope Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Pocono Mountains
Hope

Pocono Mountains is adequate for times when you don't have a car. However, Hope is not known for its public transit.

Public transit is mostly limited in Pocono Mountains. There are some bus services that run between a few towns, but they're not an efficient way to get around.

Public transit is limited or non-existant in Hope. There is no public transit in town.

Is Pocono Mountains or Hope a more walkable city?

Pocono Mountains
Hope

Pocono Mountains and Hope both are reasonable when exploring on foot.

Pocono Mountains is generally not very walkable. While there are plenty of hiking trails and some walkable towns, you really need a car to explore the area.

Hope is generally not a very walkable region. The town is relatively walkable, but you'll likely want to get into the surrounding area where most of the activities are.


For even more information, also check out Is Pocono Mountains Worth Visiting? and Is Hope Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Hope or Pocono Mountains?

How long in Pocono Mountains or Hope?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Pocono Mountains and Hope. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Pocono Mountains than in Hope. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Pocono Mountains, and 2-3 days is enough time in Hope.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Pocono Mountains than Hope 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 Pocono Mountains.


  • How many days in Pocono Mountains or Hope? Ideal Length of Stay
    Pocono Mountains 3-7 
    Hope 2-3

One day in Pocono Mountains or Hope?

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the destination of Pocono Mountains. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

You'll find around the small destination of Hope. Hikers are also drawn to this area. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from.

A weekend in Pocono Mountains or Hope?

Pocono Mountains is a fun place to experience. Hikers are also drawn to this area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

You'll find around the small town of Hope. If you have a weekend, this town makes for a great vacation. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities.

Five days in Pocono Mountains or Hope?

Visitors enjoy the museums and skiing when visiting the beautiful destination of Pocono Mountains. This region offers something for everyone. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. Plenty of people spend five days in the area when traveling. Five days is often enough time to do most activities.

Hope is a popular choice for travelers. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.


A week in Pocono Mountains or Hope?

Visitors enjoy the skiing and food when visiting the magnificent region of Pocono Mountains. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. Many people spend one week here. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Because of this, one week is usually enough time for a trip here.

Hope is a great place to explore. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Coach Bus Tours in United States of America, The Best Adventure Tours to United States of America, The Best 10-Day Tours from Vancouver, and The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Canada.


Which place is cheaper, Hope or Pocono Mountains?

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

  • Pocono Mountains Prices
    USA Prices
    Hope Prices
    Canada Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Pocono Mountains $213
    Hope $47

The average daily cost (per person) in Pocono Mountains is $213, while the average daily cost in Hope is $47. 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 Pocono Mountains and Hope in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Pocono Mountains $89
    Hope $8.89
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Pocono Mountains $178
    Hope $18
Compare Hotels in Pocono Mountains and Hope

Looking for a hotel in Pocono Mountains or Hope? 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 Pocono Mountains


Hotels in Hope


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: Hope Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Pocono Mountains $49
    Hope -

Is it cheaper to fly into Pocono Mountains or Hope?

Prices for flights to both Hope and Pocono Mountains 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
    Pocono Mountains $92
    Hope $38

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Pocono Mountains $30
    Hope -

Tours and Activities in Hope

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Hope.

  • From Vancouver: 2-Day Kelowna Wine, Lake, and Farm Tour: $296
  • From Vancouver: 3-Day Tour to Manning Park, Nelson & Osoyoos: $379

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Pocono Mountains $13
    Hope $10


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

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Pocono Mountains Expensive? and Is Hope Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Pocono Mountains or Hope?

Hope has a larger population, and is about 50% larger than the population of Pocono Mountains. When comparing the sizes of Pocono Mountains and Hope, keep in mind that a larger population does not always imply the destination has more attractions or better activities. So, always research the type of place that you want to visit along with the activities and attractions that interest you.


When is the best time to visit Pocono Mountains or Hope?

Both places have a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. As both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Pocono Mountains or Hope in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Pocono Mountains as well as Hope. Many visitors come to Pocono Mountains in the summer for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Hope for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In July, Pocono Mountains is generally a little warmer than Hope. Daily temperatures in Pocono Mountains average around 75°F (24°C), and Hope fluctuates around 18°C (64°F).

Pocono Mountains receives a lot of rain in the summer. Pocono Mountains usually gets more rain in July than Hope. Pocono Mountains gets 4.4 inches (111 mm) of rain, while Hope receives 51 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Pocono Mountains 75°F (24°C) 
    Hope 18°C (64°F)

Should I visit Pocono Mountains or Hope in the Autumn?

Both Hope and Pocono Mountains are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Pocono Mountains for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Hope because of the hiking trails and the shopping scene.

Pocono Mountains is a little warmer than Hope in the autumn. The daily temperature in Pocono Mountains averages around 55°F (13°C) in October, and Hope fluctuates around 10°C (51°F).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Hope. In October, Pocono Mountains usually receives less rain than Hope. Pocono Mountains gets 2.7 inches (69 mm) of rain, while Hope receives 156 mm (6.1 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Pocono Mountains 55°F (13°C) 
    Hope 10°C (51°F)

Should I visit Pocono Mountains or Hope in the Winter?

Both Hope and Pocono Mountains during the winter are popular places to visit. The winter months attract visitors to Pocono Mountains because of the skiing, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Hope this time of year.

It's quite cold in Hope in the winter. The weather in Pocono Mountains can be very cold. In the winter, Pocono Mountains is much colder than Hope. Typically, the winter temperatures in Pocono Mountains in January average around 28°F (-2°C), and Hope averages at about 3°C (37°F).

Hope gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Pocono Mountains usually gets less rain in January than Hope. Pocono Mountains gets 3 inches (77 mm) of rain, while Hope receives 201 mm (7.9 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Pocono Mountains 28°F (-2°C) 
    Hope 3°C (37°F)

Should I visit Pocono Mountains or Hope in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Pocono Mountains and Hope. The natural beauty are the main draw to Pocono Mountains this time of year.

In April, Pocono Mountains is generally a little warmer than Hope. Daily temperatures in Pocono Mountains average around 51°F (11°C), and Hope fluctuates around 9°C (49°F).

Hope receives a lot of rain in the spring. In April, Pocono Mountains usually receives less rain than Hope. Pocono Mountains gets 3.8 inches (96 mm) of rain, while Hope receives 114 mm (4.5 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Pocono Mountains 51°F (11°C) 
    Hope 9°C (49°F)

Typical Weather for Hope and Pocono Mountains

Pocono Mountains Hope
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 28°F (-2°C) 3 inches (77 mm) 3°C (37°F) 201 mm (7.9 in)
Feb 31°F (-1°C) 2.8 inches (71 mm) 5°C (41°F) 164 mm (6.4 in)
Mar 41°F (5°C) 3.6 inches (92 mm) 7°C (44°F) 145 mm (5.7 in)
Apr 51°F (11°C) 3.8 inches (96 mm) 9°C (49°F) 114 mm (4.5 in)
May 62°F (17°C) 3.8 inches (96 mm) 12°C (54°F) 89 mm (3.5 in)
Jun 71°F (22°C) 3.5 inches (88 mm) 15°C (60°F) 67 mm (2.6 in)
Jul 75°F (24°C) 4.4 inches (111 mm) 18°C (64°F) 51 mm (2 in)
Aug 73°F (23°C) 4.2 inches (106 mm) 18°C (64°F) 53 mm (2.1 in)
Sep 66°F (19°C) 3.6 inches (91 mm) 15°C (59°F) 85 mm (3.4 in)
Oct 55°F (13°C) 2.7 inches (69 mm) 10°C (51°F) 156 mm (6.1 in)
Nov 45°F (7°C) 3.6 inches (91 mm) 6°C (43°F) 222 mm (8.7 in)
Dec 33°F (1°C) 3.6 inches (91 mm) 3°C (37°F) 217 mm (8.5 in)