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

Should you visit Pocono Mountains or Vernon?

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 Vernon 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 scenic, beautiful, and magnificent region. Pocono Mountains offers plenty of beauty for visitors. Other popular activities here include museums, skiing, and food. See Pocono Mountains travel costs.

Vernon

Vernon is a relaxing, quiet, and peaceful town. And you can't forget about the food, hiking, and shopping. See Vernon travel costs.

Pocono Mountains and Vernon: 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
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular with backpackers


Is there more to do in Pocono Mountains or Vernon?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Pocono Mountains. Although Pocono Mountains and Vernon are both popular with visitors, Pocono Mountains has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Pocono Mountains is more touristy than Vernon and is known for its hiking trails, boating and fishing, and small towns. It is also home to Bushkill Falls. Vernon is popular for its surrounding valley with lakes and hiking trails.

How is Pocono Mountains different from Vernon?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Pocono Mountains or Vernon Better for Skiing?

Pocono Mountains
Vernon

Pocono Mountains is a well-known place for snow skiing. However, Vernon is not a skiing destination.

Pocono Mountains is a well-known ski destination which attracts visitors from far and wide. 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.

Vernon is not a skiing destination.


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

Pocono Mountains
Vernon

Plenty of people visit the good sights and museums in both Pocono Mountains and Vernon.

Pocono Mountains offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. 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.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Vernon. There are local galleries and museums that offer information on the region's history and culture. You can visit the Canadian Wildlife Museum, the Caetani Center, the Museum and Archives of Vernon, the Paddlewheel Park Stationhouse Museum, and the Vernon Public Art Gallery.

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

Pocono Mountains
Vernon

Both Pocono Mountains and Vernon offer a number of good restaurants to choose from.

Visitors will find a budding food and restaurant scene in 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.

Vernon is becoming an appealing option for foodies. The region is known for its vineyards and wineries and many of the local restaurants have been around for generations. The food is often locally produced and prepared with traditional recipes.

Is Pocono Mountains or Vernon Better for Nightlife?

Pocono Mountains
Vernon

Evening events are decent in both Pocono Mountains and Vernon.

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 Vernon. The town gets very quiet in the evenings, so you won't find much of a nightlife scene.


Is Pocono Mountains or Vernon Better for Resorts?

Pocono Mountains
Vernon

Pocono Mountains is a nice place to visit for its resorts. However, Vernon is not a resort destination.

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

Vernon is not a resort destination.

Is Pocono Mountains or Vernon Better for Hiking?

Pocono Mountains
Vernon

Both Pocono Mountains and Vernon are destinations which offer high quality 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 Vernon. The surrounding valley has more than 300 kilometers of hiking trails. They run along pristine lakes, pass by granite rock formations, and take you to impressive viewpoints.

Is the Shopping Better in Pocono Mountains or Vernon?

Pocono Mountains
Vernon

Both Pocono Mountains and Vernon are good shopping destinations.

Pocono Mountains offers some nice shopping areas. 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.

Vernon has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. There are a number of boutique shops that are fun to explore in the downtown area.


Is Pocono Mountains or Vernon More Beautiful?

Pocono Mountains
Vernon

Pocono Mountains is a nice place to visit for its scenery and beauty. However, Vernon is not a destination known for its beauty.

Pocono Mountains offers plenty of beauty for visitors. The mountains, valleys, lakes, and streams offer impressive beauty and a peaceful setting.

Vernon is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Pocono Mountains or Vernon Better for Families?

Pocono Mountains
Vernon

Pocono Mountains is a well-known place for its family-friendly activities. Also, Vernon is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

Pocono Mountains is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. 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.

Vernon is a family-friendly region. There are biking and hiking trails as well as other outdoor activities. You can also visit the Allan Brooks Nature Center or the Rock Garden Climbing Center.

Is Pocono Mountains or Vernon Better for Couples?

Pocono Mountains
Vernon

Pocono Mountains is a well-known place for couples. Also, Vernon is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for romance.

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.

Vernon is a nice destination for couples. It offers a peaceful getaway for couples. You can visit the Okanagan wineries or enjoy one of the many hiking trails. There are also nice restaurants to try.


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

Pocono Mountains
Vernon

Pocono Mountains is a well-known place for backpackers. However, Vernon is not a good town for backpackers and budget travelers.

Pocono Mountains is a very popular region for backpackers and budget travelers. There's no shortage of campgrounds, cabins, and hiking opportunities that will let backpackers enjoy a bit of nature.

Vernon is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There is a hostel in town, but this isn't a popular destination for backpackers.

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

Pocono Mountains
Vernon

Both Pocono Mountains and Vernon offer decent public transit options.

Public transit is generally 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 mostly limited in Vernon. There is a bus system, but it's better not to rely on it.

Is Pocono Mountains or Vernon a more walkable city?

Pocono Mountains
Vernon

Pocono Mountains and Vernon both are decent 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.

Vernon is generally not a very walkable region. You'll really want to have a car to make the most of your time here.


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

Should I spend more time in Vernon or Pocono Mountains?

How long in Pocono Mountains or Vernon?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Pocono Mountains and Vernon. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Pocono Mountains than in Vernon. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Pocono Mountains, and 1-3 days is enough time in Vernon.

Families should spend more time in Pocono Mountains than Vernon. 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 Vernon. 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 Vernon 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 Vernon? Ideal Length of Stay
    Pocono Mountains 3-7 
    Vernon 1-3

One day in Pocono Mountains or Vernon?

Many travelers enjoy the museums and skiing when visiting the destination of Pocono Mountains. Hikers are also drawn to this area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

You'll find museums and food around the peaceful destination of Vernon. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Because of this, one day is usually enough time for a trip here. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from.

A weekend in Pocono Mountains or Vernon?

Pocono Mountains is a great place to explore. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

You'll find food and shopping around the relaxing town of Vernon. 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 Vernon?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Pocono Mountains. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. With all of its activities, you can easily fill five days here. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Vernon 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 Vernon?

Many travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the magnificent destination of Pocono Mountains. This region offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. If you have one week, this is a great place to go. This would be the perfect place to spend one week, as it has just the right amount of activities.

Vernon 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 Coach Bus Tours in Canada, and The Best Adventure Tours to Canada.


Which place is cheaper, Vernon 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
    Vernon Prices
    Canada Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Pocono Mountains $213
    Vernon $49

The average daily cost (per person) in Pocono Mountains is $213, while the average daily cost in Vernon is $49. 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 Vernon in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Pocono Mountains $89
    Vernon $4.81
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Pocono Mountains $178
    Vernon $9.62
Compare Hotels in Pocono Mountains and Vernon

Looking for a hotel in Pocono Mountains or Vernon? 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 Vernon


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: Vernon Hotel Prices.

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

Is it cheaper to fly into Pocono Mountains or Vernon?

Prices for flights to both Vernon 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
    Vernon $43

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

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Pocono Mountains $13
    Vernon $13


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

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 Vernon Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Pocono Mountains or Vernon?

Vernon has a larger population, and is about 20 times larger than the population of Pocono Mountains. When comparing the sizes of Pocono Mountains and Vernon, 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 Vernon?

Both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. And since both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Pocono Mountains or Vernon in the Summer?

Both Vernon and Pocono Mountains are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Pocono Mountains for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Vernon because of the hiking and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Pocono Mountains is around the same temperature as Vernon. Typically, the summer temperatures in Pocono Mountains in July average around 75°F (24°C), and Vernon averages at about 23°C (73°F).

It's quite rainy in Pocono Mountains. In July, Pocono Mountains usually receives more rain than Vernon. Pocono Mountains gets 4.4 inches (111 mm) of rain, while Vernon receives 28 mm (1.1 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Pocono Mountains 75°F (24°C) 
    Vernon 23°C (73°F)

Should I visit Pocono Mountains or Vernon in the Autumn?

Both Vernon and Pocono Mountains during the autumn are popular places to visit. The autumn months attract visitors to Pocono Mountains because of the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Furthermore, the hiking trails and the shopping scene are the main draw to Vernon this time of year.

In October, Pocono Mountains is generally a little warmer than Vernon. Daily temperatures in Pocono Mountains average around 55°F (13°C), and Vernon fluctuates around 11°C (51°F).

Pocono Mountains usually gets more rain in October than Vernon. Pocono Mountains gets 2.7 inches (69 mm) of rain, while Vernon receives 14 mm (0.6 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Pocono Mountains 55°F (13°C) 
    Vernon 11°C (51°F)

Should I visit Pocono Mountains or Vernon in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Pocono Mountains and Vernon. The skiing, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Pocono Mountains this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Vernon for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Vernon. It's quite cold in Pocono Mountains in the winter. Pocono Mountains is a little warmer than Vernon in the winter. The daily temperature in Pocono Mountains averages around 28°F (-2°C) in January, and Vernon fluctuates around -3°C (27°F).

In January, Pocono Mountains usually receives more rain than Vernon. Pocono Mountains gets 3 inches (77 mm) of rain, while Vernon receives 26 mm (1 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Pocono Mountains 28°F (-2°C) 
    Vernon -3°C (27°F)

Should I visit Pocono Mountains or Vernon in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Pocono Mountains as well as Vernon. Many travelers come to Pocono Mountains for the natural beauty.

In the spring, Pocono Mountains is around the same temperature as Vernon. Typically, the spring temperatures in Pocono Mountains in April average around 51°F (11°C), and Vernon averages at about 12°C (53°F).

Pocono Mountains usually gets more rain in April than Vernon. Pocono Mountains gets 3.8 inches (96 mm) of rain, while Vernon receives 15 mm (0.6 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Pocono Mountains 51°F (11°C) 
    Vernon 12°C (53°F)

Typical Weather for Vernon and Pocono Mountains

Pocono Mountains Vernon
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 28°F (-2°C) 3 inches (77 mm) -3°C (27°F) 26 mm (1 in)
Feb 31°F (-1°C) 2.8 inches (71 mm) 2°C (35°F) 14 mm (0.6 in)
Mar 41°F (5°C) 3.6 inches (92 mm) 7°C (44°F) 10 mm (0.4 in)
Apr 51°F (11°C) 3.8 inches (96 mm) 12°C (53°F) 15 mm (0.6 in)
May 62°F (17°C) 3.8 inches (96 mm) 16°C (61°F) 22 mm (0.9 in)
Jun 71°F (22°C) 3.5 inches (88 mm) 21°C (69°F) 29 mm (1.1 in)
Jul 75°F (24°C) 4.4 inches (111 mm) 23°C (73°F) 28 mm (1.1 in)
Aug 73°F (23°C) 4.2 inches (106 mm) 23°C (73°F) 30 mm (1.2 in)
Sep 66°F (19°C) 3.6 inches (91 mm) 17°C (63°F) 28 mm (1.1 in)
Oct 55°F (13°C) 2.7 inches (69 mm) 11°C (51°F) 14 mm (0.6 in)
Nov 45°F (7°C) 3.6 inches (91 mm) 4°C (39°F) 22 mm (0.9 in)
Dec 33°F (1°C) 3.6 inches (91 mm) -1°C (30°F) 33 mm (1.3 in)