A Travel Price Comparison for California Big Sur vs. Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park for Couples, Hiking, Backpackers, and Food

Should you visit Big Sur or Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park?

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

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Big Sur and Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park can help you decide which place is right for you.

Big Sur

Big Sur is a breathtaking, scenic, and remote natural area. You'll find world class beauty here as well. It's also known for food, beaches, and hiking.

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. It's also popular because of the hiking.

Big Sur and Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park: Pros and Cons

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

Visitors will usually find more to do in Big Sur than Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Big Sur is better known for its food, beaches, and impressive beauty, while Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park is more popular for its museums and shopping. Big Sur is more touristy than Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park and is popular for its beautiful state parks, dramatic coastal cliffs, and world class views. Also, Big Sur is famous for Bixby Bridge. Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park is well known for its alpine lakes, hydrothermal activity, and unique volcanoes.

How is Big Sur 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 Big Sur. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

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

Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park is adequate for its historical sights. However, Big Sur is not a good destination for its sights and 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.

Big Sur offers a few options for museum-goers. Nature is what brings visitors to the area, so most people don't prioritize museums or manmade landmarks.

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

Big Sur is a natural area with good options for its local cuisine and restaurants. However, Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park is not a good park for its restaurants.

Big Sur offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. Most of the restaurants offer a breathtaking view. Many use locally-sourced ingredients and they range in style from fine dining to casual eateries.

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 Big Sur or Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park Better for Nightlife?

Neither Big Sur or Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park offer decent nightlife.

The nightlife scene is quiet in Big Sur There's a taphouse and lounge, but the area is mostly undeveloped with no real nightlife.

People don't go to Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park for the nightlife. Stargazing and campfire chats are the best ways to enjoy evening in the park.

Is Big Sur or Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park Better for Beaches?

Big Sur is a well-known place for its beaches. However, Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park is not a beach destination.

The beaches at Big Sur attract visitors from all over. The coastline and beaches are dramatic and beautiful, particularly Pfeiffer Beach, which has a dramatic waterfall. The water is filled with rip tides and strong currents, so swimming isn't advisable in most places.

Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park is not a beach destination.

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

You'll find superb hiking in both Big Sur and Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park.

Many visitors go to Big Sur for the hiking trails. The dramatic hikes take you along the coastline, to beautiful beaches and through Redwood forests. There are a number of state parks along the route and some of the best hikes include Salmon Creek Trail, Pacific Valley Bluff Trail, and Ragged Point Cliffside Trail.

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.

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

Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park is adequate for its shopping areas. However, Big Sur is not a good destination for shopping.

Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park has some good spots for those that want to go shopping. There are stores and gift shops near the visitor centers.

Big Sur has some shopping areas for those that seek them out. There are some galleries and gift shops, but most visitors aren't in the area to go shopping.

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

You'll find notable kid-friendly activities in either Big Sur or Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park.

Big Sur offers lots of family activities. Kids will enjoy the hiking and beaches, particularly the Carmel Lagoon at Carmel River State Beach. There are a number of state parks where kids can run around and stretch their legs.

Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park is a family-friendly place to visit. 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 Big Sur or Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park Better for Couples?

Big Sur is an amazing natural area to visit for romance. Also, Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park is not as famous, but is still a good park to visit for its romantic activities.

Big Sur is a great natural area for couples, as it has plenty to offer. Stunning viewpoints and breathtaking coastline make this a wonderful destination for couples. There are romantic inns and impressive hikes along the water's edge or through the dramatic Redwoods.

Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. 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.

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

Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park is great for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Big Sur is not as popular, but is still a nice natural area for backpackers.

Plenty of budget travelers and backpackers visit Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park. There is a large backcountry area which offers a unique hiking and camping experience. You'll need to purchase permits before your trip.

It's common for backpackers to visit Big Sur. There are a couple of hostels in the area, but budget travelers often prefer vacation rentals, which are more common.

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

Neither Big Sur or Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park offer decent public transit.

Public transit is quite limited in Big Sur. There is no real public transportation in the area.

Public transit is limited or non-existant in Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park. There is no public transportation in the park.

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

Neither Big Sur or Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park are walkable places.

Big Sur is not a very walkable natural area. While there are hiking trails, Big Sur is a stretch of road that runs along the coast and requires a car to fully access.

Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park is not a walkable natural area. 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 Big Sur Worth Visiting? and Is Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park Worth Visiting?.

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

How long in Big Sur or Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Big Sur and Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park. You can spend similar amounts of time exploring each one. In general, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Big Sur, and 2-3 days is enough time in Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park than Big Sur 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 Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park.

One day in Big Sur or Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park?

In Big Sur, many people enjoy the food that this beautiful destination offers. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. One day should give you a good understanding of everything this natural area has to offer. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

In Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park, you'll find . Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. This park offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

A weekend in Big Sur or Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park?

Big Sur, a popular natural area, is full of activities for travelers. In Big Sur, many people enjoy the food that this remote destination offers. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

In Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park, you'll find . The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park has to offer.

Five days in Big Sur or Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park?

Travelers enjoy the food when visiting the beautiful natural area of Big Sur. It's also a great beach destination, too. 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 great place to explore. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Big Sur or Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park?

Big Sur is a popular choice for travelers. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park. Many people enjoy the when visiting Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park. 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 Cultural Tours in United States of America, The Best Photography Tours in United States of America, The Best Camping Tours in United States of America, and The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in United States of America.

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

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

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

Both places have a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. As both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

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

Both Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park and Big Sur during the summer are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Big Sur for the beaches, the hiking, and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, many visitors come to Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park in the summer for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences.

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

Big Sur usually gets less rain in July than Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park. Big Sur gets 0 inches (1 mm) of rain, while Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park receives 0.1 inches (2 mm) of rain this time of the year.

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

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Big Sur and Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park. Many visitors come to Big Sur in the autumn for the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area. Furthermore, most visitors come to Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

In October, Big Sur is generally cooler than Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park. Daily temperatures in Big Sur average around 62°F (17°C), and Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park fluctuates around 66°F (19°C).

In October, Big Sur usually receives less rain than Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park. Big Sur gets 0.6 inches (14 mm) of rain, while Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park receives 1.5 inches (37 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.

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

The winter brings many poeple to Big Sur as well as Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park. Most visitors come to Big Sur for the cuisine during these months. Additionally, the winter months attract visitors to Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Big Sur is a little warmer than Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park in the winter. The daily temperature in Big Sur averages around 51°F (11°C) in January, and Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park fluctuates around 47°F (9°C).

It's quite rainy in Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park. Big Sur usually gets less rain in January than Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park. Big Sur gets 2.3 inches (58 mm) of rain, while Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park receives 4.1 inches (104 mm) of rain this time of the year.

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

Both Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park and Big Sur are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The spring months attract visitors to Big Sur because of the beaches and the natural beauty. Also, the natural beauty are the main draw to Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park this time of year.

In the spring, Big Sur is cooler than Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park. Typically, the spring temperatures in Big Sur in April average around 56°F (13°C), and Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park averages at about 60°F (16°C).

In April, Big Sur usually receives less rain than Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park. Big Sur gets 1.1 inches (29 mm) of rain, while Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park receives 1.4 inches (35 mm) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park and Big Sur