A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Yosemite National Park vs. Jasper National Park for Hiking, Backpackers, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Yosemite National Park or Jasper National Park?

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

Should I visit Yosemite National Park or Jasper National Park? 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.

Yosemite National Park

Yosemite National Park is a world-famous, stunning, and breathtaking national park. The famous beauty of Yosemite National Park is one of the main draws. It's also known for hiking. See Yosemite National Park travel costs.

Jasper National Park

Jasper National Park is a adventure-filled, stunning, and breathtaking national park. You'll find world class beauty in Jasper National Park as well. Other popular activities here include hiking. See Jasper National Park travel costs.

Yosemite National Park and Jasper National Park: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Nice resorts
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good public transit
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to El Capitan
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Good for hiking
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to Icefields Parkway
Things to Consider
  • Public transit not as usable


Is there more to do in Yosemite National Park or Jasper National Park?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Yosemite National Park than Jasper National Park, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Yosemite National Park is better known for its nightlife and resorts, while Jasper National Park is more popular for its museums and attractions and shopping. Yosemite National Park is more touristy than Jasper National Park and is known for its stunning hikes, giant Sequoias, breathtaking vistas, and the granite cliffs of Half Dome. Also, Yosemite National Park is famous for El Capitan. Jasper National Park is well known for its wildlife and pristine natural beauty

How is Yosemite National Park different from Jasper National Park?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Yosemite National Park or Jasper National Park?

Yosemite National Park
Jasper National Park

Jasper National Park is a moderate national park for its sights and museums. However, Yosemite National Park does not have museums and landmarks.

Jasper National Park offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. You can learn about the area with a visit to the Jasper Yellowhead Museum & Archive.

Yosemite National Park does not have museums and landmarks.


Is the Food Better in Yosemite National Park or Jasper National Park? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Yosemite National Park
Jasper National Park

Foodies will find both Yosemite National Park and Jasper National Park both to be respectable destinations.

Yosemite National Park may not make the list for most foodies, but you'll find what you need while you're in town. There are a few varied restaurants in the park that offer casual food or packaged meals that you can take away. The food is generally expensive and not always the best, so you'll likely enjoy packing your own picnic food to enjoy within the park.

Jasper National Park offers some easy restaurants to choose from. There are several decent restaurants and bistros near or in the park. Many are connected to lodges and some offer great views.

Is Yosemite National Park or Jasper National Park Better for Nightlife?

Yosemite National Park
Jasper National Park

Yosemite National Park is a national park with a few options for nightlife. However, Jasper National Park is not particularly known for nightlife and partying.

Yosemite National Park is generally a quiet destination but there are options around. There are some bars near the park that make a nice spot to grab a drink.

The nightlife scene is quiet in Jasper National Park Stargazing and sitting by an open fire is the best way to spend the evening.

Is Yosemite National Park or Jasper National Park Better for Resorts?

Yosemite National Park
Jasper National Park

Yosemite National Park is well known for its resorts. However, Jasper National Park is not a resort destination.

Yosemite National Park is a popular resort destination that attracts visitors from everywhere. There are several grand hotels and lodges within the park. Reservations are a must, especially if you're traveling during peak seasons.

Jasper National Park is not a resort destination.


Is Yosemite National Park or Jasper National Park Better for Hiking?

Yosemite National Park
Jasper National Park

If you're looking to go hiking, Yosemite National Park and Jasper National Park both have fantastic trails.

People visit Yosemite National Park specifically for its hiking, as the natural beauty is well-known. This park has many famous hikes that take you by Half Dome, near Yosemite Falls, and through breathtaking landscapes. Popular hikes in the area include Mist Trail to Vernal Fall and Nevada Fall and Mirror Lake Trail.

Many people visit Jasper National Park specifically for its hiking. Hiking is a truly world class experience in this large park. There are miles of trails, both backcountry and more accessible, that allow access to the park's stunning beauty. Whether you're looking for a shorter family-friendly hike, or planning a multi-week backcountry adventure, this park has it all.

Is the Shopping Better in Yosemite National Park or Jasper National Park?

Yosemite National Park
Jasper National Park

Jasper National Park is a moderate national park for its shopping areas. However, Yosemite National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Jasper National Park has some good spots for those that want to go shopping. In town you'll find shops where you can pick up souvenirs or things you may have forgotten.

Yosemite National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Yosemite National Park or Jasper National Park More Beautiful?

Yosemite National Park
Jasper National Park

You'll find a similar quality of fantastic scenery and beauty in both Yosemite National Park and Jasper National Park.

You'll find world class beauty in Yosemite National Park as well. This park has a sense of natural beauty that's hard to find anywhere else in the world. The breathtaking landscapes, surreal waterfalls, and stunning granite rock formations are unlike any other park or setting.

Jasper National Park is considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. The Canadian Rockies create a stunning backdrop for this beautiful and vast national park.


Is Yosemite National Park or Jasper National Park Better for Families?

Yosemite National Park
Jasper National Park

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Yosemite National Park or Jasper National Park.

Yosemite National Park is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. This park has many hikes, climbs, and activities that kids of all ages can enjoy. When the weather's warm the kids will enjoy getting wet in Merced River. They'll also be impressed by the giant sequoias and the beautiful waterfalls. In the evening the staff host ranger programs that are fun and educational for everyone. The park also has kid-friendly camping and lodges.

Jasper National Park is a very family-friendly destination. Kids who love running, hiking, and exploring will enjoy a visit to this iconic park. The hiking trails are world class and you'll likely see some wildlife during your trip. Camping with s'mores and hot dogs will make for a memorable family vacation.

Is Yosemite National Park or Jasper National Park Better for Couples?

Yosemite National Park
Jasper National Park

With fun activities for couples, both Yosemite National Park and Jasper National Park make for a very good place to visit.

Yosemite National Park is a very popular place to visit for couples. Couples who enjoy nature, rock climbing, hiking, and being outside will enjoy a visit to this park. There is an endless supply of romantic views and fun-filled activities that are perfect for avid hikers or those looking for a more relaxing travel experience.

Jasper National Park makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. There are lodges where couples can enjoy a romantic getaway. For the more adventurous, camping is a great way to experience the park. If you enjoy outdoor adventures together, then this is a great place to spend some time in nature.

Is Yosemite National Park or Jasper National Park Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Yosemite National Park
Jasper National Park

Both Yosemite National Park and Jasper National Park are fantastic destinations for backpackers.

Yosemite National Park is a very popular national park to visit for backpackers. Campgrounds and back country trails make this area a backpacker's paradise.

Many backpackers frequent Jasper National Park. Camping is the best way to experience the park in full. You'll be surrounded by nature, and if you're lucky, some wildlife might pass by as well.


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

Yosemite National Park
Jasper National Park

Yosemite National Park is a nice place to visit for its public transit. However, Jasper National Park is not particularly known for times when you don't have a car.

You'll find some public transit in Yosemite National Park, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There is a free bus service that travels around Yosemite Valley.

Public transit is quite limited in Jasper National Park. If you don't have your own vehicle, a bus tour is your best option for experiencing the park.

Is Yosemite National Park or Jasper National Park a more walkable city?

Yosemite National Park
Jasper National Park

Yosemite National Park is a national park with a few options for its walkability. However, Jasper National Park is not particularly known for its high level of walkability.

Yosemite National Park is generally not very walkable. The park is large and a car is necessary to reach many places within the park.

Jasper National Park is not a very walkable national park. The park is large, and a vehicle is necessary to reach most trailheads.

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

Should I spend more time in Jasper National Park or Yosemite National Park?

How long in Yosemite National Park or Jasper National Park?

In either Yosemite National Park or Jasper National Park, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Yosemite National Park than Jasper National Park because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Yosemite National Park, and 2-5 days is enough time in Jasper National Park.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Yosemite National Park than Jasper 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 Yosemite National Park.


  • How many days in Yosemite National Park or Jasper National Park? Ideal Length of Stay
    Yosemite National Park 3-7 
    Jasper National Park 2-5

One day in Yosemite National Park or Jasper National Park?

Many travelers enjoy the when visiting the beautiful destination of Yosemite National Park. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

The national park of Jasper National Park offers . Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.


A weekend in Yosemite National Park or Jasper National Park?

Yosemite National Park is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. This national park offers a variety of activities to choose from.

The breathtaking destination of Jasper National Park offers . This national park offers something for everyone. It is common to spend a weekend here. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. It's no surprise that hiking is why people visit. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Five days in Yosemite National Park or Jasper National Park?

Many people visit Yosemite National Park for five days. Many travelers enjoy the when visiting the beautiful national park of Yosemite National Park. Don't miss the hiking, as that's what most people do. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this national park has to offer.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Jasper National Park. For many, it makes a great getaway for five days. Hikers are also drawn to this area. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then five days is just the right amount of time to spend here. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

A week in Yosemite National Park or Jasper National Park?

Many travelers enjoy the when visiting the stunning destination of Yosemite National Park. Many people spend one week here. Hikers are also drawn to this area. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. Don't miss the hiking, as that's what most people do. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Yosemite National Park, one week is sufficent for most.

Jasper National Park is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the when visiting the destination of Jasper National Park. It's no surprise that hiking is why people visit. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Tours Under $1000 in United States of America, The Best Luxury Tours to United States of America, The Best Luxury Tours to Canada, and The Best Tours for Seniors to Canada.


Which place is cheaper, Jasper National Park or Yosemite National Park?

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

  • Yosemite National Park Prices
    USA Prices
    Jasper National Park Prices
    Canada Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Yosemite National Park $158
    Jasper National Park $99

The average daily cost (per person) in Yosemite National Park is $158, while the average daily cost in Jasper National Park is $99. 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 Yosemite National Park and Jasper National Park in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Yosemite National Park $64
    Jasper National Park $45
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Yosemite National Park $128
    Jasper National Park $90
Compare Hotels in Yosemite National Park and Jasper National Park

Looking for a hotel in Yosemite National Park or Jasper National Park? 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 Yosemite National Park


Hotels in Jasper National Park


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: Yosemite National Park Hotel Prices and Jasper National Park Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Yosemite National Park $41
    Jasper National Park $19

Typical Local Transportation Prices in Jasper National Park

Some typical examples of transportation costs in Jasper National Park are as follows:


  • Park Pass
    $14

Is it cheaper to fly into Yosemite National Park or Jasper National Park?

Prices for flights to both Jasper National Park and Yosemite 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
    Yosemite National Park $69
    Jasper National Park $40

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Jasper National Park

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Jasper National Park.

  • Half-Day Jasper Culture Food Tour: $119

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Yosemite National Park $19
    Jasper National Park $7.75

Tours and Activities in Yosemite National Park

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Yosemite National Park are as follows:

  • Yosemite National Park Self-Guided Audio Tour: $17
  • Self-Guided Audio Driving Tour in Yosemite: $20
  • Private Yosemite Tour Indulging in Nature, Flavors, and History: $30
  • The Evolution of Yosemite 3 Hour Hiking Tour: $140
  • The Evolution of Yosemite 3 Hour Walking Tour: $140
  • Yosemite Valley & Glacier Point Adaptive Tour: $180
  • Big Trees Hike & Riverside Cookout Adventure: $180
  • Yosemite’s High Country Adaptive Tour: $180
  • Yosemite Winter Highlights Small Group Tour: $200
  • Yosemite Highlights Small Group Tour: $210
  • Semi Private Yosemite Tour with Ahwahnee Lunch and Hotel Pickup: $250
  • Private Yosemite Valley Tour & Roosevelt Cookout: $270

Tours and Activities in Jasper National Park

Here are a few actual costs in Jasper National Park for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • Jasper National Park Self-Guided Driving Audio Tour: $13
  • Self-Guided Audio Driving Tour in Jasper National Park: $14
  • Icefields Parkway Self-Guided Driving Audio Tour: $17
  • From Jasper: Jasper National Park Wildlife Discovery Tour: $62
  • Secrets of Jasper Snowshoe Tour: $62
  • Jasper Evening Wildlife Tour: $63
  • Morning Jasper National Park Wildlife Tour: $64
  • Winter Wildlife Discovery Tour: $66
  • Jasper National Park Tour Maligne Valley, Medicine Lake with Walk: $67
  • Jasper National Park Tour: Maligne Valley, Medicine Lake and Spirit Island: $67
  • Planetarium and Telescope Combo Tour : $67
  • Jasper Wildlife and Sightseeing Tour with Maligne Lake Hike: $79

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Yosemite National Park $11
    Jasper National Park $11


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

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