A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Zion National Park vs. Columbia River Gorge for Hiking, Backpackers, Food, and Families

Should you visit Zion National Park or Columbia River Gorge?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Zion National Park or Columbia River Gorge, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

Zion National Park

Zion National Park is a world-renowned, breathtaking, and stunning park. You'll find world class beauty in Zion National Park as well. It's also known for hiking. See Zion National Park travel costs.

Columbia River Gorge

Columbia River Gorge is a scenic, natural, and beautiful region. Columbia River Gorge is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for hiking, shopping, and nightlife. See Columbia River Gorge travel costs.

Zion National Park and Columbia River Gorge: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Zion National Park or Columbia River Gorge?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Zion National Park. Although Zion National Park and Columbia River Gorge are both popular with visitors, Zion National Park has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Zion National Park is more popular for its resorts, hiking, and impressive beauty, while Columbia River Gorge is known for its food, nightlife, and shopping. Zion National Park is more touristy than Columbia River Gorge and is known for its iconic hiking trails, dramatic canyon, and world-class rock climbing. It is also home to Angels Landing. Columbia River Gorge is popular for its hiking, biking, and high number of waterfalls.

How is Zion National Park different from Columbia River Gorge?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Zion National Park or Columbia River Gorge?

Both Zion National Park and Columbia River Gorge have decent landmarks and museums for visitors.

Zion National Park offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. The best museum in the area is the Zion Human History Museum.

While most people don't head to Columbia River Gorge specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. There are a couple of local museums in the area, but most visitors spend their time exploring the region's natural beauty.

Is the Food Better in Zion National Park or Columbia River Gorge? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Columbia River Gorge is well known for its restaurant scene. However, Zion National Park is not particularly known for its local flavors and cuisine.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Columbia River Gorge makes for a great culinary experience. You'll find many great restaurants in the area that serve local dishes that make use of the region's agricultural scene.

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 Zion National Park or Columbia River Gorge Better for Nightlife?

Columbia River Gorge is a nice place to visit for nightlife. However, Zion National Park is not particularly known for nightlife and partying.

Columbia River Gorge has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. Local breweries, wineries, and bars offer a relaxing setting with a local vibe.

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

Is Zion National Park or Columbia River Gorge Better for Resorts?

Zion National Park is a moderate park for its resorts. However, Columbia River Gorge is not a resort destination.

Zion National Park has a few resort options worth checking out. There's a lodge within the park and many hotel options outside of the park.

Columbia River Gorge is not a resort destination.

Is Zion National Park or Columbia River Gorge Better for Hiking?

Zion National Park is a world-class destination for the nearby hiking options. Also, Columbia River Gorge is not as famous, but is still a good region to visit for its hiking trails.

Known for its hiking, Zion National Park draws a crowd to experience the nature and the 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 Columbia River Gorge. There are world-class hikes that take you to iconic waterfalls, breathtaking viewpoints, and along scenic waterways.

Is the Shopping Better in Zion National Park or Columbia River Gorge?

Columbia River Gorge is a nice place to visit for shopping. However, Zion National Park is not particularly known for its shopping opportunities.

Columbia River Gorge is a great destination for shopping. Art galleries feature local artwork and artisan crafts. There are photography shops and other venues that sell items highlighting the region's beauty.

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

Is Zion National Park or Columbia River Gorge More Beautiful?

Zion National Park is a world-class destination for its scenery and beauty. Also, Columbia River Gorge 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.

The beauty of Columbia River Gorge is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Impressive waterfalls and breathtaking mountain vistas make this a truly beautiful place to visit.

Is Zion National Park or Columbia River Gorge Better for Families?

Zion National Park and Columbia River Gorge are both superb destinations for the whole family.

Zion National Park is a very family-friendly place to visit. 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.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Columbia River Gorge is very family-friendly. Kids will love exploring the waterfalls and mountains as much as the adults do. There are kid-friendly hikes as well as bakeries and restaurants with many kid options.

Is Zion National Park or Columbia River Gorge Better for Couples?

Zion National Park and Columbia River Gorge are both superb to visit as a couple.

Couples visit Zion National Park frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. 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.

Columbia River Gorge is a great park if you're traveling as a couple. Couples will love the romantic hikes and waterfalls. There are also beautiful scenic viewpoints and wonderful restaurants.

Is Zion National Park or Columbia River Gorge Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Zion National Park is a world-class destination for backpackers. Also, Columbia River Gorge is not as famous, but is still a good region to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Zion National Park is a mecca for backpackers and budget travelers. 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.

Many backpackers visit Columbia River Gorge. You'll find hostels and campgrounds in the area that are perfect for backpackers and budget travelers.

Is Zion National Park or Columbia River Gorge Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Zion National Park is a nice place to visit for its public transit. However, Columbia River Gorge is not a good 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 Columbia River Gorge. There are some buses, but don't rely on them to efficiently explore.

Is Zion National Park or Columbia River Gorge a more walkable city?

Neither Zion National Park or Columbia River Gorge are walkable places.

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

Columbia River Gorge is not a very walkable park. You really need a car to explore the area, but some visitors rely on a bike.

For even more information, also check out Is Zion National Park Worth Visiting? and Is Columbia River Gorge Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Columbia River Gorge or Zion National Park?

How long in Zion National Park or Columbia River Gorge?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Zion National Park and Columbia River Gorge. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Zion National Park than in Columbia River Gorge. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Zion National Park, and 2-3 days is enough time in Columbia River Gorge.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Zion National Park than Columbia River Gorge 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 Zion National Park.

One day in Zion National Park or Columbia River Gorge?

Many travelers enjoy the when visiting the beautiful destination of Zion 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.

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the beautiful destination of Columbia River Gorge. 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.

A weekend in Zion National Park or Columbia River Gorge?

Zion National Park is a fun place to experience. 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 a weekend exploring. This park offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Columbia River Gorge is a popular place to visit. Visitors enjoy the shopping and nightlife when visiting the scenic region of Columbia River Gorge. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Columbia River Gorge has to offer.

Five days in Zion National Park or Columbia River Gorge?

Many people visit Zion National Park for five days. Many travelers enjoy the when visiting the beautiful park of Zion 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 park has to offer.

Many people enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting Columbia River Gorge. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Five days 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.

A week in Zion National Park or Columbia River Gorge?

Many travelers enjoy the when visiting the stunning destination of Zion 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 Zion National Park, one week is sufficent for most.

Columbia River Gorge is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. It offers something for everyone. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Tours for Seniors to United States of America, The Best Contiki Tours to United States of America, The Best G Adventures Tours to United States of America, and The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Las Vegas.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Zion National Park and Columbia River Gorge, we can see that Columbia River Gorge 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 Columbia River Gorge would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Columbia River Gorge 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 Zion National Park Expensive? and Is Columbia River Gorge Expensive?.