A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Zion National Park vs. Saskatoon for Backpackers, Families, Couples, and Attractions

Should you visit Zion National Park or Saskatoon?

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 Saskatoon, 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 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.

Saskatoon

Saskatoon is a cultural, friendly, and authentic city. It's also known for shopping, museums, and nightlife. See Saskatoon travel costs.

Zion National Park and Saskatoon: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Nice resorts
  • Good for hiking
  • Known for its beauty
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to Angels Landing
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular for shopping
  • Less walkable
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Very walkable
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers


Is there more to do in Zion National Park or Saskatoon?

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

How is Zion National Park different from Saskatoon?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Saskatoon 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 Saskatoon?

Zion National Park
Saskatoon

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

Saskatoon is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. There are some museums and historical sites to check out such as Fort Battleford National Historic Site, Batoche National Historic Site, and the Saskatchewan Indigenous Cultural Centre.

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 Zion National Park or Saskatoon? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Zion National Park
Saskatoon

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

Saskatoon offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. There's a great food scene around town with diverse restaurants and cuisines to choose from. You can sample dim sum, Mexican, Middle Eastern, Indian, and many more.

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 Saskatoon Better for Nightlife?

Zion National Park
Saskatoon

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

Saskatoon has an active nightlife scene for those who seek it out. There are enough clubs and bars around town to keep things entertaining. Most cater to a younger crowd, but the vibe is fun and full of energy.

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 Saskatoon Better for Resorts?

Zion National Park
Saskatoon

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

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.

Saskatoon is not a resort destination.


Is Zion National Park or Saskatoon Better for Hiking?

Zion National Park
Saskatoon

Zion National Park is an unbeatable place for the nearby hiking options. However, Saskatoon is not a hiking destination.

Zion National Park is well-known for its hiking and trekking. 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.

Saskatoon is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Zion National Park or Saskatoon?

Zion National Park
Saskatoon

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

Saskatoon is a great destination for shopping. A number of brands have opened stores in the downtown area in recent years, so the shopping scene continues to grow and diversify.

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 Saskatoon More Beautiful?

Zion National Park
Saskatoon

Zion National Park is an unbeatable place for its scenery and beauty. However, Saskatoon is not a destination known for its 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.

Saskatoon is not a destination known for its beauty.


Is Zion National Park or Saskatoon Better for Families?

Zion National Park
Saskatoon

Zion National Park is a well-known place for its family-friendly activities. Also, Saskatoon is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

Zion National Park is a very kid-friendly 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.

Saskatoon is a family-friendly park. It's filled with indoor and outdoor play areas. Make sure you check out the Nutrien Wonderhub as well as the countless playgrounds around town.

Is Zion National Park or Saskatoon Better for Couples?

Zion National Park
Saskatoon

Zion National Park is a well-known place for its romantic activities. Also, Saskatoon is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for couples.

Zion National Park is a very popular place to visit for couples. 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.

Saskatoon is a good park for couples to visit. There are plenty of evening activities like dining out at a nice restaurant or taking in a show at the Persephone Theatre.

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

Zion National Park
Saskatoon

Zion National Park is an unbeatable place for backpackers. However, Saskatoon is not a good city 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.

Saskatoon is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. Most backpackers skip this town in favor of more popular destinations.


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

Zion National Park
Saskatoon

Zion National Park is a good destination for its public transit. However, Saskatoon is not a good city 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 Saskatoon. There is a bus system around town.

Is Zion National Park or Saskatoon a more walkable city?

Zion National Park
Saskatoon

Saskatoon is a nice place to visit for its walkability. However, Zion National Park is not particularly known for its high level of walkability.

Saskatoon is somewhat walkable. The downtown is walkable and easy to explore on foot.

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

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

Should I spend more time in Saskatoon or Zion National Park?

How long in Zion National Park or Saskatoon?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Zion National Park and Saskatoon. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Zion National Park than in Saskatoon. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Zion National Park, and 1-3 days is enough time in Saskatoon.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Zion National Park than Saskatoon 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.


  • How many days in Zion National Park or Saskatoon? Ideal Length of Stay
    Zion National Park 3-7 
    Saskatoon 1-3

One day in Zion National Park or Saskatoon?

You'll find around the park of Zion National Park. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Visitors enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the authentic destination of Saskatoon. This city offers something for everyone. This would be the perfect place to spend one day, as it has just the right amount of activities.


A weekend in Zion National Park or Saskatoon?

You'll find around the world-renowned destination of Zion National Park. Hikers are also drawn to this area. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. This park offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Saskatoon is a popular place to visit. Visitors enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the cultural city of Saskatoon. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Saskatoon has to offer.

Five days in Zion National Park or Saskatoon?

You'll find around the breathtaking park of Zion National Park. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this park makes for a great vacation. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. Most people head to the area for the hiking. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this park has to offer.

Many people enjoy the food and shopping when visiting Saskatoon. 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 Saskatoon?

Zion National Park is a popular choice for travelers. One week here is typical. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Zion National Park, one week is sufficent for most. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Saskatoon is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. 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 Family-Friendly Tours to Canada, and The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in Canada.


Which place is cheaper, Saskatoon or Zion National Park?

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

  • Zion National Park Prices
    USA Prices
    Saskatoon Prices
    Canada Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Zion National Park $146
    Saskatoon $149

The average daily cost (per person) in Zion National Park is $146, while the average daily cost in Saskatoon is $149. 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 Zion National Park and Saskatoon in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Zion National Park $60
    Saskatoon $54
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Zion National Park $120
    Saskatoon $108
Compare Hotels in Zion National Park and Saskatoon

Looking for a hotel in Zion National Park or Saskatoon? 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 Zion National Park


Hotels in Saskatoon


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: Zion National Park Hotel Prices and Saskatoon Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Zion National Park $30
    Saskatoon $32

Is it cheaper to fly into Zion National Park or Saskatoon?

Prices for flights to both Saskatoon and Zion 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
    Zion National Park $64
    Saskatoon $54

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Zion National Park $26
    Saskatoon $17

Tours and Activities in Zion National Park

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

  • Zion and Bryce Canyon Self Guided Audio Tour: $8.79
  • East Zion Dark Sky Stargazing Tour: $22
  • Self-Guided Audio Driving Tour in Zion & Bryce Canyon: $27
  • Zion Canyon Hot Springs Soak Experience: $36
  • East Zion East Rim Jeep Tour: $58
  • Campfire S'mores and Stars Tour in Kanab: $65
  • Zion Sunset Jeep Tour: $81
  • Harry Potter's Zion Ghost Tour: $85
  • Virgin: Zion National Park Off-Road Vehicle Tour & Hike: $89
  • From Virgin: Zion Night Sky Jeep Tour with a Telescope: $100
  • Peekaboo Slot Canyon Jeep Tour: $104
  • Award Winning UTV Slot Canyon Tour: $105

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Zion National Park $8.28
    Saskatoon $9.60


When comparing the travel costs between Zion National Park and Saskatoon, we can see that Saskatoon is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in North America, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

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 Saskatoon Expensive?.