A Travel Price Comparison for California Berkeley vs. Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park for Attractions, Food, Couples, and Backpackers

Should you visit Berkeley or Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Berkeley or Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park, 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.

Berkeley

Berkeley is a quirky, progressive, and diverse city. It's a gorgeous place to visit. It's also known for nightlife, food, and shopping.

Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park

Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park is a vast, overlooked, and underrated park. With stunning beauty, it attracts visitors from all around. Other popular activities here include hiking.

Berkeley and Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Good public transit
  • Very walkable
Pros
  • Good for hiking
  • 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 nightlife
  • Less popular for shopping
  • Public transit not as usable
  • Less walkable


Is there more to do in Berkeley or Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Berkeley than Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Berkeley is better known for its museums, food, nightlife, and shopping, while Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park is more popular for its hiking and impressive beauty. Berkeley is more touristy than Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park and is known for its progressive and liberal mindset as well as its farmer's markets and local boutiques. Also, Berkeley is famous for University of California Botanical Garden. Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park is well known for its alpine lakes, hydrothermal activity, and unique volcanoes.

How is Berkeley different from Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Berkeley or Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park?

Berkeley
Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park

Berkeley is a well-known place for its sights and museums. However, Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park is not a good park for its museums and history.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Berkeley. There are a wide range of museums around town, many of which are affiliated with the university. There are natural history museums, art museums, cultural museums, as well as historical and science museums.

While most people don't head to Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. Visit the Loomis Museum to learn about the park history and see historic photos of the park. The building was constructed in 1972 and is worth a stopover.


Is the Food Better in Berkeley or Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Berkeley
Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park

Berkeley is a well-known place for its local cuisine and restaurants. However, Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park is not a good park for its restaurants.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Berkeley makes for a great culinary experience. There's a huge diversity of restaurants that range from international to California flavors. There are also eateries that cater to the student population, as well as fine dining and everything in between. You'll also find many farmer's markets, vegan options, and restaurants that use locally sourced ingredients.

You'll find the standard options when it comes to food in Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park. You'll find restaurants and shops at three locations within the park. Options are much more limited during the winter months, but you will find places to eat on the south side of the park in Mineral, Mill Creek, and Chester. On the north side, the closest towns are Shingletown and Old Station.

Is Berkeley or Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park Better for Nightlife?

Berkeley
Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park

Berkeley is a well-known place for nightlife. However, Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park is not a good park for nightlife and partying.

Berkeley offers plenty to do in the evening. With its large student population, you'll find no shortage of nightlife activities around town. There are bars and pubs as well as live music venues and plenty of unique experiences.

Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park doesn't offer many options. Stargazing and campfire chats are the best ways to enjoy evening in the park.

Is Berkeley or Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park Better for Hiking?

Berkeley
Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park

Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park is notable for the nearby hiking options. However, Berkeley is not a hiking destination.

Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park is a popular spot for hiking. There are more than 150 miles of hiking trails in the park. Many pass by the park's hydrothermal areas, but there are also trails that follow the edge of the alpine lakes or go through flower-filled meadows. Bumpass Hell Trail is one of the most notable hikes, but visitors also enjoy Lassen Peak Trail, Cinder Cone Trail, and Manzanita Lake Loop.

Berkeley is not a hiking destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Berkeley or Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park?

Berkeley
Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park

Berkeley is a well-known place for shopping. However, Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park is not a good park for its shopping opportunities.

Berkeley is an extremely popular place for shoppers. Quirky and local is what shopping in Berkeley is all about. There are also plenty of thrift stores and farmer's markets. Head to Fourth Street or Telegraph Avenue for some of the most interesting shopping opportunities.

If you're looking to go shopping, Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park has some nice offerings. There are stores and gift shops near the visitor centers.

Is Berkeley or Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park Better for Families?

Berkeley
Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park

Berkeley and Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park are both notable destinations for the whole family.

Berkeley is a family-friendly place to visit. There are many outdoor places to explore with kids like Tilden Park or UC Botanical Garden. There are also science museums, nature centers, and plenty of kid-friendly restaurants.

Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park is a family-friendly city. While many of the hikes in the park are challenging for kids, there are still some great options for those with little legs. Manzanita Lake Trail is less than two miles and makes a great introductory hike. Bumpass Hell Trail is three miles, and it's a highlight of any trip to the park.

Is Berkeley or Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park Better for Couples?

Berkeley
Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park

Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park is notable for couples. Also, Berkeley is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for romance.

Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park is a very popular place to visit for couples. The setting makes a romantic backdrop for those who enjoy hiking and outdoor adventures. You can go kayaking or river rafting during the day and then enjoy stargazing at night.

Berkeley is a nice destination for couples. There's a wonderful mix of cultural activities and outdoor parks that you can explore. There's the Berkeley Rose Garden, the Berkeley Repertory Theatre, and many charming restaurants.


Is Berkeley or Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Berkeley
Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park

Both Berkeley and Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park are high quality destinations for backpackers.

Berkeley is a very popular city for backpackers and budget travelers. With its eclectic and alternative vibe, backpackers will find their place in this city. There's also a huge student population and a couple of hostels in the area.

Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park is very popular with the backpacker crowd. There is a large backcountry area which offers a unique hiking and camping experience. You'll need to purchase permits before your trip.

Is Berkeley or Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park Better for Students?

Berkeley
Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park

Berkeley is a well-known place for students. However, Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park is not popular with students.

Students come from all over to stay in Berkeley. University of California, Berkeley is a well reviewed university that attracts a progressive and motivated student population. The city is an expensive, but very rewarding place to study with many activities and opportunities for students.

Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park is not popular with students.

Is Berkeley or Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Berkeley
Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park

Berkeley is an amazing city to visit for its public transit. However, Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park is not a good park for times when you don't have a car.

Public transit in Berkeley is top-notch. It's located in the San Francisco Bay Area, and it has access to buses and several BART stations.

Public transit is quite limited in Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park. There is no public transportation in the park.


Is Berkeley or Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park a more walkable city?

Berkeley
Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park

Berkeley is an amazing city to visit for its walkability. However, Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park is not a good park for its high level of walkability.

It is easy to get around Berkeley on foot. Most of Berkeley is very walkable, particularly the parts around the university.

Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park is not a very walkable city. The park is large, so to efficiently access the different hiking trails you'll need to have a car.

For even more information, also check out Is Berkeley Worth Visiting? and Is Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park or Berkeley?

How long in Berkeley or Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Berkeley and Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park. In our opinion, Berkeley has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Berkeley than Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park. However, 2-3 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Berkeley than Mt. Lassen Volcanic 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 Berkeley.


  • How many days in Berkeley or Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park? Ideal Length of Stay
    Berkeley 2-3 
    Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park 2-3

One day in Berkeley or Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park?

In Berkeley, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this destination offers. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

The beautiful park of Mt. Lassen Volcanic 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.

A weekend in Berkeley or Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park?

Berkeley, a popular city, is full of activities for travelers. In Berkeley, many people enjoy the museums and nightlife that this quirky destination offers. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this park makes for a great vacation. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.


Five days in Berkeley or Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the city of Berkeley. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. 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.

Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park is a popular choice for travelers. 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. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A week in Berkeley or Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park?

Berkeley is a popular choice for travelers. Anyone can find something fun to do here. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days.

Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park is a great place to explore. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This park offers something for everyone.


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


Which place is cheaper, Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park or Berkeley?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Berkeley is $190, while the average daily cost in Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park is $126. 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 Berkeley and Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Berkeley $131
    Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park $62
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Berkeley $262
    Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park $124
Compare Hotels in Berkeley and Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park

Looking for a hotel in Berkeley or Mt. Lassen Volcanic 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 Berkeley


Hotels in Mt. Lassen Volcanic 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: Berkeley Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Berkeley $30
    Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park $56

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Berkeley

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Berkeley:

  • Oakland Airport (OAK) to Oakland hotel or address - Private Arrival Transfer: $43
  • Oakland Airport (OAK) to San Francisco hotel/address - Private Arrival Transfer: $63
  • Oakland Airport (OAK) to Oakland hotel or address - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $87
  • Private Arrival Transfer from Oakland Airport (OAK) to Oakland: $93
  • Private Departure Transfer to Oakland Airport OAK: $97
  • Oakland Airport (OAK) to San Francisco - Round-Trip Private Car Transfer: $127
  • Private Transfer: Oakland International Airport to Hotel: $200
  • Arrival Transfer from Oakland Airport OAK to San Francisco by SUV: $232

Is it cheaper to fly into Berkeley or Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park?

Prices for flights to both Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park and Berkeley 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
    Berkeley $36
    Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park $30
Typical Food Prices in Berkeley

Some typical examples of dining costs in Berkeley are as follows:


  • Chocolates at Sweet Dreams
    $4.46

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Berkeley

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Berkeley.

  • North 3-Hour Food Tour: $116
  • Best of North Berkeley Food Tour: $130
  • Black Food Tour - Downtown Oakland: $140

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Berkeley $30
    Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park $21

Tours and Activities in Berkeley

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Berkeley are as follows:

  • Ruth Bancroft Garden General Admission Ticket: $12
  • Oakland Athletics Baseball Game Ticket at RingCentral Coliseum: $16
  • Comedy Oakland at The Washington Inn Show Tickets: $20
  • 2 Hours Private Walking Tour in Berkeley: $20
  • Self-Guided Oakland Tour in an Urban Excursion: $20
  • Scavenger Hunt Adventure in Berkeley by Zombie Scavengers: $20
  • Unique Scavenger Hunt Experience in Antioch by Zombie Scavengers: $20
  • Redwoods of Marin and Mt. Tamalpais Walking Tour with Local Guide: $59
  • Historic Houseboat Tour: $65
  • Oakland's Temescal Tastes Tour: $120
  • Classic Sausalito Wooden Boat Tour: $135

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Berkeley $13
    Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park $19

Sample the Local Flavors in Berkeley

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Berkeley:

  • Guided Wine Tasting at Berkeley Wineries with Local Sommelière : $175
  • Guided Wine Tasting with Local Sommelière: $175


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

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



When is the best time to visit Berkeley or Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park?

Both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. And since both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Berkeley or Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park in the Summer?

Both Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park and Berkeley are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. The family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Berkeley this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Berkeley is much colder than Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park. Typically, the summer temperatures in Berkeley in July average around 63°F (17°C), and Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park averages at about 83°F (29°C).

In July, Berkeley usually receives less rain than Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park. Berkeley gets 0.1 inches (2 mm) of rain, while Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park receives 0.1 inches (2 mm) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Berkeley 63°F (17°C) 
    Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park 83°F (29°C)

Should I visit Berkeley or Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park in the Autumn?

Both Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park and Berkeley during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Berkeley for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area. Furthermore, many visitors come to Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park in the autumn for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Berkeley is generally around the same temperature as Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park. Daily temperatures in Berkeley average around 63°F (17°C), and Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park fluctuates around 66°F (19°C).

Berkeley usually gets less rain in October than Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park. Berkeley gets 1.3 inches (33 mm) of rain, while Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park receives 1.5 inches (37 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Berkeley 63°F (17°C) 
    Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park 66°F (19°C)

Should I visit Berkeley or Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Berkeley and Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park. Many visitors come to Berkeley in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, most visitors come to Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Berkeley is a little warmer than Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park in the winter. The daily temperature in Berkeley averages around 50°F (10°C) in January, and Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park fluctuates around 47°F (9°C).

Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park receives a lot of rain in the winter. In January, Berkeley usually receives less rain than Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park. Berkeley gets 3.8 inches (96 mm) of rain, while Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park receives 4.1 inches (104 mm) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Berkeley 50°F (10°C) 
    Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park 47°F (9°C)

Should I visit Berkeley or Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Berkeley as well as Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park. Most visitors come to Berkeley for the natural beauty during these months. Additionally, the spring months attract visitors to Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park because of the natural beauty.

In the spring, Berkeley is cooler than Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park. Typically, the spring temperatures in Berkeley in April average around 58°F (14°C), and Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park averages at about 60°F (16°C).

Berkeley usually gets less rain in April than Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park. Berkeley gets 1.2 inches (31 mm) of rain, while Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park receives 1.4 inches (35 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Berkeley 58°F (14°C) 
    Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park 60°F (16°C)

Typical Weather for Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park and Berkeley

Berkeley Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 50°F (10°C) 3.8 inches (96 mm) 47°F (9°C) 4.1 inches (104 mm)
Feb 54°F (12°C) 2.7 inches (69 mm) 52°F (11°C) 3.4 inches (86 mm)
Mar 56°F (13°C) 2.7 inches (69 mm) 55°F (13°C) 3.1 inches (78 mm)
Apr 58°F (14°C) 1.2 inches (31 mm) 60°F (16°C) 1.4 inches (35 mm)
May 60°F (15°C) 0.2 inches (5 mm) 69°F (21°C) 0.8 inches (20 mm)
Jun 62°F (17°C) 0.1 inches (3 mm) 78°F (25°C) 0.4 inches (11 mm)
Jul 63°F (17°C) 0.1 inches (2 mm) 83°F (29°C) 0.1 inches (2 mm)
Aug 64°F (18°C) 0.1 inches (1 mm) 81°F (27°C) 0.2 inches (6 mm)
Sep 66°F (19°C) 0.3 inches (7 mm) 76°F (25°C) 0.6 inches (16 mm)
Oct 63°F (17°C) 1.3 inches (33 mm) 66°F (19°C) 1.5 inches (37 mm)
Nov 57°F (14°C) 2.8 inches (71 mm) 54°F (12°C) 3.6 inches (91 mm)
Dec 51°F (11°C) 2.7 inches (68 mm) 47°F (9°C) 3.4 inches (88 mm)