A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Pocono Mountains vs. Zion National Park for Hiking, Backpackers, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Pocono Mountains or Zion 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 Pocono Mountains and Zion 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.

Pocono Mountains

Pocono Mountains is a magnificent, relaxing, and scenic region. Pocono Mountains is a gorgeous place to visit. It's also known for museums, skiing, and food. See Pocono Mountains travel costs.

Zion National Park

Zion National Park is a breathtaking, stunning, and world-renowned park. You'll find world class beauty in Zion National Park as well. And you can't forget about the hiking. See Zion National Park travel costs.

Pocono Mountains and Zion National Park: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Pocono Mountains or Zion National Park?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Zion National Park. Although Pocono Mountains and Zion National Park are popular destinations, Zion National Park has more sights and attractions for tourists. Zion National Park is very popular for its hiking and impressive beauty, while Pocono Mountains attracts visitors for its skiing, museums and attractions, food, nightlife, resorts, and shopping. Zion National Park is more touristy than Pocono Mountains and is known for its iconic hiking trails, dramatic canyon, and world-class rock climbing. It is also well known for Angels Landing. Pocono Mountains is famous for its hiking trails, boating and fishing, and small towns.

How is Pocono Mountains different from Zion National Park?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Pocono Mountains or Zion National Park Better for Skiing?

Pocono Mountains is well known for winter skiing. However, Zion National Park is not a skiing destination.

Pocono Mountains is an extremely popular place for snow skiing and other winter sports. 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.

Zion National Park is not a skiing destination.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Pocono Mountains or Zion National Park?

Pocono Mountains is a nice place to visit for its museums and landmarks. However, Zion National Park is not particularly known for its historical sights.

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.

While most people don't head to Zion National Park specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. The best museum in the area is the Zion Human History Museum.

Is the Food Better in Pocono Mountains or Zion National Park? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Pocono Mountains is a nice place to visit for its restaurant scene. However, Zion National Park is not particularly known for its local flavors and cuisine.

Pocono Mountains offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. 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 Zion National Park. Within the park there are a couple of restaurants, but it's far better to bring your own food that you can enjoy as a picnic or meal by a campfire.

Is Pocono Mountains or Zion National Park Better for Nightlife?

Pocono Mountains is a region with a few options for nightlife. However, Zion National Park is not particularly known for nightlife and partying.

Pocono Mountains is generally a quiet destination but there are options around. 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.

The nightlife scene is quiet in Zion National Park Stargazing and relaxing by a campfire is how most visitors enjoy the evening hours.

Is Pocono Mountains or Zion National Park Better for Resorts?

Pocono Mountains is a nice place to visit for its resorts. However, Zion National Park is not particularly known for its luxury resorts.

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.

Not known for its high-end resorts, Zion National Park offers a few options. There's a lodge within the park and many hotel options outside of the park.

Is Pocono Mountains or Zion National Park Better for Hiking?

Zion National Park is a must-visit destination for the nearby hiking options. Also, Pocono Mountains is not as famous, but is still a good region to visit for its hiking trails.

Around Zion National Park visitors will find world-class hiking trails. This park is known for its iconic hikes, which include Angels Landing, the Narrows, and the Emerald Pools Trail. There are hikes that range from easy to incredibly difficult, and many visits see this destination as a bucket list hiking opportunity.

Many visitors explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting Pocono Mountains. 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.

Is the Shopping Better in Pocono Mountains or Zion National Park?

Pocono Mountains is a nice place to visit for shopping. However, Zion National Park is not particularly known for its shopping opportunities.

Pocono Mountains is a great destination for shopping. 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.

Shopping in Zion National Park can be found for those interested. There are park stores, but few other shopping opportunities in the area.

Is Pocono Mountains or Zion National Park More Beautiful?

Zion National Park is a must-visit destination for its scenery and beauty. Also, Pocono Mountains is not as famous, but is still a good region to visit for its scenery and beauty.

You'll find world class beauty in Zion National Park as well. This park will have you feeling as if you're in a painting. There are spectacular views and a stunning natural beauty that will take your breath away.

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

Is Pocono Mountains or Zion National Park Better for Families?

Both Pocono Mountains and Zion National Park are high quality 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 Zion National Park. One of the most kid-friendly hikes is the Watchman Trail, which starts conveniently near the Visitor Center. Other favorites include the Lower Emerald Pool Trail, the Pa'rus Trail, and the Riverside Walk.

Is Pocono Mountains or Zion National Park Better for Couples?

Both Pocono Mountains and Zion National Park are high quality 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.

Zion National Park makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. There are world-class hiking trails, spectacular views, and many opportunities for a romantic moment in this well-known park. While the crowds can be intense, particularly during peak seasons, the park is large enough that you should be able to find a moment of solitude.

Is Pocono Mountains or Zion National Park Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Zion National Park is a must-visit destination for backpackers. Also, Pocono Mountains is not as famous, but is still a good region to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers and budget travelers come from all over the world to visit Zion National Park. This is a world-famous rock climbing, hiking, and backpacking destination. There are many opportunities for backcountry camping, but you are required to purchase a permit.

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers visit Pocono Mountains. There's no shortage of campgrounds, cabins, and hiking opportunities that will let backpackers enjoy a bit of nature.

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

Zion National Park is a park with good options for its public transit. However, Pocono Mountains is a mediocre region for times when you don't have a car.

Zion National Park has a few public transit options. There are free shuttles that travel around the park. They operate during the most popular seasons but the service isn't available during most of the winter months.

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.

Is Pocono Mountains or Zion National Park a more walkable city?

Pocono Mountains is a region with a few options for its walkability. However, Zion National Park is not particularly known for its high level of walkability.

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.

Zion National Park is not a very walkable region. The park is large, and most trailheads are spread out and require a vehicle to access.

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

Should I spend more time in Zion National Park or Pocono Mountains?

How long in Pocono Mountains or Zion National Park?

Both Pocono Mountains and Zion National Park have a number of activities to choose from. In our opinion, Pocono Mountains has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Pocono Mountains than Zion National Park. However, 3-7 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

Families should spend more time in Pocono Mountains than Zion National Park. 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 Zion National Park. 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.

One day in Pocono Mountains or Zion National Park?

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. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

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

A weekend in Pocono Mountains or Zion National Park?

Pocono Mountains is a popular place to visit. Visitors enjoy the skiing and food when visiting the scenic region of Pocono Mountains. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything.

You'll find around the world-renowned park of Zion National Park. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Most people head to the area for the hiking. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring.

Five days in Pocono Mountains or Zion National Park?

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the destination of Pocono Mountains. This is a popular place to visit for five days. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Five days is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Pocono Mountains has to offer.

Zion National Park is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. This would be the perfect place to spend five days, as it has just the right amount of activities.

A week in Pocono Mountains or Zion National Park?

Pocono Mountains is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have one week, this region makes for a great vacation. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. It offers something for everyone. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one week here.

Zion National Park is a great place to explore. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. It is common to spend one week here. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Most people head to the area for the hiking. One week is often enough time to do most activities.

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 Train & Rail Tours in United States of America, and The Best Sightseeing Tours in United States of America.

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

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 Zion National Park Expensive?.