A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Redwood National Park vs. Salt Lake City for Hiking, Backpackers, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Redwood National Park or Salt Lake City?

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

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Redwood National Park and Salt Lake City. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Redwood National Park

Redwood National Park is a monumental, grand, and impressive park. Redwood National Park is considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. It's also popular because of the beaches and hiking. See Redwood National Park travel costs.

Salt Lake City

Salt Lake City is a notable, religious, and architectural city. Other popular activities here include scuba diving and snorkeling, hiking, and shopping. See Salt Lake City travel costs.

Redwood National Park and Salt Lake City: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Known for its beauty
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less popular for food
  • Less popular for shopping
  • Public transit not as usable
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good public transit
  • Home to Temple Square
Things to Consider
  • Less hiking options
  • Less popular with backpackers


Is there more to do in Redwood National Park or Salt Lake City?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Salt Lake City. Although Redwood National Park and Salt Lake City are popular destinations, Salt Lake City has more sights and attractions for tourists. Salt Lake City is very popular for its museums and attractions, food, nightlife, scuba diving & snorkeling, and shopping, while Redwood National Park attracts visitors for its beaches, hiking, and impressive beauty. Redwood National Park is famous for being the home of the world's tallest trees. Salt Lake City is famous for its religious landmarks and its large Mormon population. It is also well known for Temple Square.

How is Redwood National Park different from Salt Lake City?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Redwood National Park or Salt Lake City?

Redwood National Park
Salt Lake City

Salt Lake City is well known for its museums and landmarks. However, Redwood National Park is not particularly known for its historical sights.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around Salt Lake City. Many of the fascinating sights around town are influenced by the city's Mormon culture. Temple Square is a highlight for most visitors. It spans 35 acres and is beautifully landscaped with several fountains. There are also four main churches - The Temple, the Tabernacle, the Temple Annex, and Assembly Hall. The city also has several museums such as the Natural History Museum and the historic Liberty Park.

If you're looking to pass the time, head to a museum or historic sight in Redwood National Park. There is little in the form of museums, but you can visit the Thomas H. Kuchel Visitor Center on the south side of the park and see exhibits about Yurok culture and the area's ecology.


Is the Food Better in Redwood National Park or Salt Lake City? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Redwood National Park
Salt Lake City

Salt Lake City is a good destination for its restaurant scene. However, Redwood National Park is not particularly known for its local flavors and cuisine.

There are many up and coming restaurants in the Salt Lake City area. In recent years the food scene has really improved and you'll find a variety of restaurants that serve everything from upscale dishes to more casual fare.

While Redwood National Park is not famous for its food, you'll find what you need there. There are no dining or grocery options within the park but there are some options just outside the park.

Is Redwood National Park or Salt Lake City Better for Nightlife?

Redwood National Park
Salt Lake City

Salt Lake City is a city with a few options for its evening party scene. However, Redwood National Park is not particularly known for nightlife.

Salt Lake City is generally a quiet destination but there are options around. Known for its large Mormon population, nightlife isn't the first thing that comes to mind when you think about Salt Lake City. While it will likely never be a party city, there are a growing number of entertainment options around town.

The nightlife scene is quiet in Redwood National Park The laid back setting offers little in the form of nightlife.

Is Redwood National Park or Salt Lake City Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Redwood National Park
Salt Lake City

Salt Lake City is a good destination for snorkeling and scuba diving. However, Redwood National Park is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Grab a mask and fins and explore the underwater scenery in Salt Lake City. There are a number of good ski resorts nearby, making this a good base or starting point for a ski vacation.

Redwood National Park is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.


Is Redwood National Park or Salt Lake City Better for Beaches?

Redwood National Park
Salt Lake City

Redwood National Park is very good for the beach. However, Salt Lake City is not a beach destination.

Many people head to Redwood National Park to enjoy the beach. The park runs along the Pacific coastline and there are 70 miles of coastal trail in the park. Beaches are rugged and sandy and favorite sections include Gold Bluff Beach, Crescent Beach, and Enderts Beach, which has great tidal pools.

Salt Lake City is not a beach destination.

Is Redwood National Park or Salt Lake City Better for Hiking?

Redwood National Park
Salt Lake City

Redwood National Park is a world-class destination for its hiking trails. Also, Salt Lake City is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its hiking experiences.

Many people visit Redwood National Park specifically for its hiking. Hikes range from coastal trails to world-renowned hikes through the redwoods. You'll feel humbled in the presence of these grand and majestic trees. Several of the most well-known hikes include Fern Canyon, the Cathedral Trees Trail, and Redwood Creek Trail.

Salt Lake City has hiking trails worth exploring. The city offers easy access to many diverse trails, so if you're a nature enthusiasts, you'll appreciate this destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Redwood National Park or Salt Lake City?

Redwood National Park
Salt Lake City

Salt Lake City is a good destination for its shopping areas. However, Redwood National Park is not particularly known for shopping.

Many visitors go to Salt Lake City to go shopping. The city has sprawling outlet malls as well as local stores and craft shops. City Creek Center is a favorite shopping destination, but there are also several large shopping malls that are worth visiting.

Shopping in Redwood National Park can be found for those interested. You'll find park stores at the visitor centers if you want to pick up a small gift or souvenir.


Is Redwood National Park or Salt Lake City More Beautiful?

Redwood National Park
Salt Lake City

Redwood National Park is a world-class destination for its scenery and beauty. However, Salt Lake City is not a destination known for its beauty.

Redwood National Park is considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. The majestic redwood trees will take your breath away. These ancient forests offer a truly unique experience and you'll feel small in comparison to their grand height.

Salt Lake City is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Redwood National Park or Salt Lake City Better for Families?

Redwood National Park
Salt Lake City

Redwood National Park is a very popular place for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Salt Lake City is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Redwood National Park. There are plenty of kid-friendly hikes in the park and the kids will love exploring the varied landscapes and diverse ecosystems. Less than a mile long, Fern Canyon is the perfect hike for little kids and it's not-to-be-missed. Cathedral Trees Trail is three miles, and also a highlight of any trip to the park.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Salt Lake City. There are museums that kids will enjoy like the Natural History Museum of Utah and the Leonardo Museum. There are also fun-filled activities like a visit to Lagoon Amusement Park. You can learn about history at This Is the Place Heritage Park or learn about the undersea world at Loveland Living Planet Aquarium.

Is Redwood National Park or Salt Lake City Better for Couples?

Redwood National Park
Salt Lake City

Redwood National Park is a very popular place for couples. Also, Salt Lake City is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for romance.

Redwood National Park makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. There are historic lodges that make for a romantic getaway. You can fill your days with hikes through magical landscapes and breathtaking settings surrounded by the impressive redwoods.

Salt Lake City is a nice destination for couples. The city is filled with beautiful gardens like Red Butte Garden. There are also nice restaurants and romantic hotels that will make this a nice place for a couple's getaway.


Is Redwood National Park or Salt Lake City Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Redwood National Park
Salt Lake City

Redwood National Park is a world-class destination for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Salt Lake City is lacking in good options for backpackers.

A large number of backpackers visit Redwood National Park, as it is a very popular park for budget travelers. There are miles of backcountry trails that let you can explore the park in relative peace and solitude. This is an amazing way to experience the park, but do make sure you purchase a permit in advance.

Salt Lake City is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There are a couple of hostels in town, but most backpackers overlook this destination or breeze through town quickly.

Is Redwood National Park or Salt Lake City Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Redwood National Park
Salt Lake City

Salt Lake City is a good destination for its public transit. However, Redwood National Park is not particularly known for times when you don't have a car.

You'll find some public transit in Salt Lake City, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There's a surprisingly good public transit system that includes light rail, buses, and commuter trains, but if you want to get out of town you'll need to have a car.

Public transit is quite limited in Redwood National Park. There's no public transportation within the park.

Is Redwood National Park or Salt Lake City a more walkable city?

Redwood National Park
Salt Lake City

Salt Lake City is a city with a few options for its ease of walking around. However, Redwood National Park is not particularly known for its walkability.

Salt Lake City is generally not very walkable. While some neighborhoods are walkable, like Temple Square, most visitors prefer to have a car.

Redwood National Park is not a very walkable park. The park is large and spread out, so you'll need a car to get around.


For even more information, also check out Is Redwood National Park Worth Visiting? and Is Salt Lake City Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Salt Lake City or Redwood National Park?

How long in Redwood National Park or Salt Lake City?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Redwood National Park and Salt Lake City. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Redwood National Park than in Salt Lake City. Usually, 3-5 days is a good amount of time for Redwood National Park, and 2-3 days is enough time in Salt Lake City.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Salt Lake City than Redwood 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 Salt Lake City.


  • How many days in Redwood National Park or Salt Lake City? Ideal Length of Stay
    Redwood National Park 3-5 
    Salt Lake City 2-3

One day in Redwood National Park or Salt Lake City?

In Redwood National Park, you'll find . Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

In Salt Lake City, you'll find shopping and museums. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

A weekend in Redwood National Park or Salt Lake City?

Redwood National Park is a great place to explore. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Anyone can find something fun to do here. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Salt Lake City. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this city. It offers something for everyone.

Five days in Redwood National Park or Salt Lake City?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Redwood National Park. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. It offers something for everyone. One reason most visitors come is for the hiking. Because of this, five days is usually enough time for a trip here.

Salt Lake City is a fun place to experience. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. Your budget might influence how long you stay.


A week in Redwood National Park or Salt Lake City?

Travelers enjoy the when visiting the park of Redwood National Park. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. Your budget might influence how long you stay. One reason most visitors come is for the hiking. One week 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.

You'll find scuba diving and snorkeling and shopping around the notable destination of Salt Lake City. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 2-Week Tours in United States of America, The Best 3-Week Tours in United States of America, The Best Bicycle Tours in United States of America, and Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Salt Lake City or Redwood National Park?

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

  • Redwood National Park Prices
    USA Prices
    Salt Lake City Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Redwood National Park $135
    Salt Lake City $282

The average daily cost (per person) in Redwood National Park is $135, while the average daily cost in Salt Lake City is $282. 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 Redwood National Park and Salt Lake City in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Redwood National Park $44
    Salt Lake City $119
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Redwood National Park $88
    Salt Lake City $238
Compare Hotels in Redwood National Park and Salt Lake City

Looking for a hotel in Redwood National Park or Salt Lake City? 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 Redwood National Park


Hotels in Salt Lake City


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: Salt Lake City Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Redwood National Park $53
    Salt Lake City $45

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Salt Lake City

Also for Salt Lake City, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Park City Hotels to Salt Lake City Airport (SLC) - Departure Private Transfer: $48
  • Private Departure Transfer to Salt Lake City Airport SLC: $36
  • Private Transfer from SLC to Park City UT : $286
  • Private Transfer from SLC to Salt Lake City : $131
  • Private Transfer from Salt Lake City Airport (SLC) to Park City hotel or address: $286
  • Private Transfer from Salt Lake City Airport (SLC) to Salt Lake City : $131
  • Private Transfer: Hotels to SLC Airport: $45
  • Private transfer: Hotels to SLC Airport: $46
  • Salt Lake City Airport (SLC) to Park City - Arrival Private Transfer : $48
  • Salt Lake City Airport (SLC) to Park City UT - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $96
  • Salt Lake City Airport (SLC) to Salt Lake City - Arrival Private Transfer: $48
  • Salt Lake City to Salt Lake City Airport (SLC) - Departure Private Transfer: $48

Is it cheaper to fly into Redwood National Park or Salt Lake City?

Prices for flights to both Salt Lake City and Redwood 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
    Redwood National Park $56
    Salt Lake City $86

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Redwood National Park $33
    Salt Lake City $28

Tours and Activities in Salt Lake City

For Salt Lake City, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • Utah Jazz Basketball Game Ticket: $6.55
  • Utah Jazz Basketball Game Ticket at Delta Center: $8.02
  • Mormon History Salt Lake Self-Guided Audio app Walking Tour: $9.75
  • Scavenger Hunt Adventure in Salt Lake City by 3Quest Challenge: $10
  • Salt Lake City Self-Guided Walking Audio Tour: $15
  • Salt Lake City's Top Guided Hiking Tour with Charcuterie board: $19
  • Walking Tour in Salt Lake City: $20
  • Shadows of Old Salt Lake Walking Tour: $23
  • Salt Lake Ghost Tour: Salt, Spooks, & Shadows: $24
  • Salt Lake City Scavenger Hunt Walking Tour and Game: $25
  • Salt Lake City Haunted Old Town Tour: $25
  • Salt Lake Ghost Tour: Salt, Spooks, & Shadows: $26

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Redwood National Park $11
    Salt Lake City $17

Sample the Local Flavors in Salt Lake City

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Salt Lake City:

  • Spirits of the Wasatch Distillery Tour: $20


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

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


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