A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Yellowstone National Park vs. Kamloops for Hiking, Backpackers, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Yellowstone National Park or Kamloops?

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

Should I visit Yellowstone National Park or Kamloops? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Yellowstone National Park

Yellowstone National Park is a unique, stunning, and breathtaking national park. Yellowstone National Park is considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Visitors also love the hiking. See Yellowstone National Park travel costs.

Kamloops

Kamloops is a laid-back, outdoorsy, and nature-filled city. Other popular activities here include food, hiking, and shopping. See Kamloops travel costs.

Yellowstone National Park and Kamloops: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Yellowstone National Park or Kamloops?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Yellowstone National Park. Although Yellowstone National Park and Kamloops are both popular with visitors, Yellowstone National Park has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Yellowstone National Park is more popular for its resorts, hiking, and impressive beauty, while Kamloops is known for its skiing, museums and attractions, food, nightlife, and shopping. Yellowstone National Park is more touristy than Kamloops and is popular for its iconic geysers, breathtaking waterfalls, world-class hikes, and diverse wildlife. It is also home to Old Faithful. Kamloops is popular for its hiking trails, bike paths, and golf courses.

How is Yellowstone National Park different from Kamloops?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Yellowstone National Park or Kamloops Better for Skiing?

Kamloops is well known for winter skiing. However, Yellowstone National Park is not a skiing destination.

Kamloops is a well-known ski destination which attracts visitors from far and wide. There's a long ski season that runs from mid-November to mid-April. The region has two major ski resorts - Sun Peaks Resorts and Harper Mountain.

Yellowstone National Park is not a skiing destination.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Yellowstone National Park or Kamloops?

Kamloops is a city with a few options for its museums and landmarks. However, Yellowstone National Park does not have museums and landmarks.

Kamloops offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. There are a couple of museums in the area that highlight the local culture and the region's heritage.

Yellowstone National Park does not have museums and landmarks.

Is the Food Better in Yellowstone National Park or Kamloops? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Kamloops is a popular place for its restaurant scene. However, Yellowstone National Park is not particularly known for its local flavors and cuisine.

There are many up and coming restaurants in the Kamloops area. You'll find restaurants that range from casual to fine dining. There are also international options like Jamaican, Indian, or Chinese.

Yellowstone National Park offers some easy restaurants to choose from. This is a large park and there are a number of dining options available both inside and just outside of the park. Many places are seasonal so your options will be highest during the summer months. Like most national park venues, prices can be high and the quality is variable. It's recommended that you pack your own food and plan to picnic.

Is Yellowstone National Park or Kamloops Better for Nightlife?

Kamloops is a popular place for its evening party scene. However, Yellowstone National Park is not particularly known for nightlife.

Kamloops has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. You'll find pubs, bars, breweries and night clubs around town that range in personality and style.

The nightlife scene is quiet in Yellowstone National Park Things quiet down quickly at night and you won't find many places to go in the evening.

Is Yellowstone National Park or Kamloops Better for Resorts?

Yellowstone National Park is an excellent place to visit for its luxury resorts. However, Kamloops is not a resort destination.

In Yellowstone National Park, you'll find some of the region's top resorts. It is a large national park, and there are several impressive lodges nearby. Reservations are recommended well in advance. Within the park, Old Faithful Inn, Roosevelt Lodge, Lake Yellowstone Hotel, and Mammoth Hot Springs Hotel are all nice options.

Kamloops is not a resort destination.

Is Yellowstone National Park or Kamloops Better for Hiking?

Yellowstone National Park is an amazing national park to visit for its hiking trails. Also, Kamloops is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its hiking experiences.

Around Yellowstone National Park visitors will find world-class hiking trails. The park is huge, and there are countless hikes throughout. From short strolls to lengthy endeavors, there really is something for everyone. If you want to see the geysers, some of the best hikes are Grand Prismatic Overlook Trail, the Upper Geyser Basin and Old Faithful Observation Point Loop, and the Lone Star Geyser Trail. For waterfalls you can check out Brink of the Lower Falls Trail, the North Rim Trail, and Fairy Falls Trail.

Kamloops offers some nice hiking trails. The area is filled with hiking trails that pass through grasslands, desert landscapes, and pine forests. There is something for every skill level.

Is the Shopping Better in Yellowstone National Park or Kamloops?

Kamloops is a popular place for its shopping areas. However, Yellowstone National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Many visitors go to Kamloops to go shopping. Downtown you'll find local boutiques and eclectic shops. You could also head to Aberdeen Mall for all of the major brands and recognizable stores.

Yellowstone National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Yellowstone National Park or Kamloops More Beautiful?

Yellowstone National Park is an amazing national park to visit for its scenery and beauty. However, Kamloops is not a destination known for its beauty.

Yellowstone National Park is considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. With its spectacular geysers, colorful springs, and unique wildlife, the park really is a beautiful place to visit.

Kamloops is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Yellowstone National Park or Kamloops Better for Families?

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Yellowstone National Park or Kamloops.

Yellowstone National Park is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. Kids who enjoy the outdoors and exploring new environments will appreciate a visit to this park. The geysers are fascinating for everyone and the waterfalls are breathtaking. There are ranger shows and other activities that are great for kids as well. Make sure you stop by the Visitor's Centers.

Kamloops is a very family-friendly destination. There are great parks and outdoor spaces for kids as well as the Deep Creek Tool Museum, Westsyde Centennial Park and Petting Zoo, and Hells Gate Air Tram. You can also take a ride on the Kettle Valley Railway Steam Engine. Animal lovers will enjoy a visit to either Kamloops Wildlife Park or Kangaroo Creek Farm.

Is Yellowstone National Park or Kamloops Better for Couples?

Yellowstone National Park is an excellent place to visit for its romantic activities. Also, Kamloops is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for couples.

Yellowstone National Park makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. This park is a beautiful and romantic destination for couples who enjoy the outdoors. There are world-renowned hikes and breathtaking views. There are also lodges in the area that make for a romantic stay.

Kamloops is a good national park for couples to visit. The area is filled with great hikes and nice parks. There are also great restaurants that make for a good date night.

Is Yellowstone National Park or Kamloops Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Yellowstone National Park is an amazing national park to visit for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Kamloops is lacking in options for backpackers.

With so many budget-friendly offerings, Yellowstone National Park is extremely popular for backpackers. Backpackers will appreciate the campgrounds and affordable facilities that are found around the park. Reservations are recommended well in advance, particularly if you're hoping to stay inside the park.

Kamloops is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. It's often overlooked by backpackers, but there is a hostel in town.

Is Yellowstone National Park or Kamloops Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Kamloops is a city with a few options for its public transit. However, Yellowstone National Park is not particularly known for times when you don't have a car.

Public transit is generally limited in Kamloops. There is a bus system through the city.

Public transit is quite limited in Yellowstone National Park. There is no public transportation service available in the park. There are private tour options available.

Is Yellowstone National Park or Kamloops a more walkable city?

Kamloops is a city with a few options for its ease of walking around. However, Yellowstone National Park is not particularly known for its walkability.

Kamloops is generally not very walkable. The downtown is the most walkable part of town.

Yellowstone National Park is not a very walkable national park. This is among the largest national parks and a car is an absolute must if you hope to experience the different landscapes.

For even more information, also check out Is Yellowstone National Park Worth Visiting? and Is Kamloops Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Kamloops or Yellowstone National Park?

How long in Yellowstone National Park or Kamloops?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Yellowstone National Park or Kamloops to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Yellowstone National Park than Kamloops because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 5-7 days is a good amount of time for Yellowstone National Park, and 1-2 days is enough time in Kamloops.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Kamloops than Yellowstone 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 Kamloops.

One day in Yellowstone National Park or Kamloops?

The beautiful national park of Yellowstone 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 nature-filled city of Kamloops. So, one day is just the right amount of time to spend here. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

A weekend in Yellowstone National Park or Kamloops?

Yellowstone National Park is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Visitors enjoy the shopping and skiing when visiting the destination of Kamloops. Anyone can find something fun to do here. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend. Because of this, a weekend is usually enough time for a trip here.

Five days in Yellowstone National Park or Kamloops?

Yellowstone National Park is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. It's no surprise that hiking is why people visit. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Yellowstone National Park, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Kamloops is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything. It offers something for everyone.

A week in Yellowstone National Park or Kamloops?

Yellowstone National Park is a great place to explore. It's no surprise that hiking is why people visit. It is common to spend one week here. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One week is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Yellowstone National Park has to offer. This national park offers something for everyone.

Kamloops 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 3-Week Tours in United States of America, The Best Bicycle Tours in United States of America, The Best Train & Rail Tours in Canada, and The Best Sightseeing Tours in Canada.

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

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