A Travel Price Comparison for California Joshua Tree National Park vs. Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park for Hiking, Backpackers, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Joshua Tree National Park or Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Joshua Tree National Park and Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

Joshua Tree National Park

Joshua Tree National Park is a fascinating, adventurous, and unique national park. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for 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.

Joshua Tree National Park and Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park: Pros and Cons

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
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


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

Visitors will usually find more to do in Joshua Tree National Park than Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Joshua Tree National Park is better known for its hiking, while Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park is more popular for its food and shopping. Joshua Tree National Park is more touristy than Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park and is popular for its unique vegetation and large boulders. Also, Joshua Tree National Park is famous for Cholla Cactus Garden. Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park is well known for its alpine lakes, hydrothermal activity, and unique volcanoes.

How is Joshua Tree National Park 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 Joshua Tree National Park. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

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

Joshua Tree National Park
Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park

You'll find a number of respectable museums and attractions in both Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park and Joshua Tree National Park.

While most people don't head to Joshua Tree National Park specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. There are a couple of museums in the area that display local art or cultural and historical items.

Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. 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 Joshua Tree National Park or Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Joshua Tree National Park
Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park

Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park is a decent place to visit for its restaurants. However, Joshua Tree National Park is lacking in good options for its restaurant scene.

Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park may not make the list for most foodies, but you'll find what you need while you're in town. 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.

While Joshua Tree National Park is not famous for its food, you'll find what you need there. There aren't any restaurants inside the park, so you'll want to pack your own food and eat at one of the picnic areas.

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

Joshua Tree National Park
Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park

Neither Joshua Tree National Park or Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park offer decent nightlife.

Joshua Tree National Park doesn't offer many options. Stargazing and gathering around campfires are the most popular activities during the evening.

Things get quiet in the evenings in Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park. Stargazing and campfire chats are the best ways to enjoy evening in the park.

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

Joshua Tree National Park
Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park

Joshua Tree National Park is an amazing national park to visit for the nearby hiking options. Also, Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park is not as famous, but is still a good park to visit for its hiking trails.

Around Joshua Tree National Park visitors will find world-class hiking trails. There are a wide range of hikes that include easy, moderate, and strenuous options. Some of the best hikes include Discovery Trail, Boy Scout Trail, and Black Rock Canyon Panorama Loop.

Many visitors explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park. 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 Joshua Tree National Park or Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park?

Joshua Tree National Park
Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park

Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park is a decent place to visit for its shopping areas. However, Joshua Tree National Park is lacking in good options 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.

Joshua Tree National Park has some shopping areas for those that seek them out. There is a park store where you can pick up gifts or other items.

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

Joshua Tree National Park
Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park

Joshua Tree National Park is a well-known place for its family-friendly activities. Also, Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park is not as famous, but is still a good park to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

Joshua Tree National Park is a very family-friendly place to visit. With its giant boulders that kids can scramble on and its Dr. Seuss-like Joshua Trees, this really is nature's best playground. There are also kid-friendly hikes and Junior Ranger Programs that will both educate and entertain the kids.

Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park is a family-friendly national park. 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 Joshua Tree National Park or Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park Better for Couples?

Joshua Tree National Park
Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park

Both Joshua Tree National Park and Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park are great destinations for a couple's getaway.

Joshua Tree National Park makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Couples who enjoy the outdoors, adventure sports like rock climbing, and hiking through spectacular landscapes will find this to be the ultimate romantic destination.

Couples visit Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. 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 Joshua Tree National Park or Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Joshua Tree National Park
Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park

Joshua Tree National Park is an amazing national park to visit for backpackers. Also, Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park is not as famous, but is still a good park to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Joshua Tree National Park is a mecca for backpackers and budget travelers. There are campgrounds and hiking trails that are popular with backpackers and nature enthusiasts.

Many 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.

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

Joshua Tree National Park
Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park

Neither Joshua Tree National Park or Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park offer decent public transit.

Public transit is quite limited in Joshua Tree National Park. There's no reliable public transportation in the park.

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

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

Joshua Tree National Park
Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park

Neither Joshua Tree National Park or Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park are walkable places.

Joshua Tree National Park is not a very walkable national park. You need a car to truly explore the park.

Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park is not a walkable national park. 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 Joshua Tree National Park Worth Visiting? and Is Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park Worth Visiting?.

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

How long in Joshua Tree National Park or Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Joshua Tree National Park and Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Joshua Tree National Park than in Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Joshua Tree National Park, and 2-3 days is enough time in Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Joshua Tree National Park 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 Joshua Tree National Park.


  • How many days in Joshua Tree National Park or Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park? Ideal Length of Stay
    Joshua Tree National Park 2-4 
    Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park 2-3

One day in Joshua Tree National Park or Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park?

In Joshua Tree National Park, many people enjoy the that this beautiful destination offers. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. 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.

Visitors enjoy the when visiting the overlooked park of Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

A weekend in Joshua Tree National Park or Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park?

Joshua Tree National Park, a popular national park, is full of activities for travelers. In Joshua Tree National Park, many people enjoy the that this unique destination offers. Lots of people come for the hiking. 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.

Visitors enjoy the when visiting the destination of Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. Anyone can find something fun to do here. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend. Because of this, a weekend is usually enough time for a trip here.

Five days in Joshua Tree National Park or Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park?

Travelers enjoy the when visiting the beautiful national park of Joshua Tree National Park. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Lots of people come for the hiking. 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 place that is full of things to see and experience. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything. It offers something for everyone.


A week in Joshua Tree National Park or Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park?

Joshua Tree National Park is a popular choice for travelers. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. 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 popular choice for travelers. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare. Your budget might influence how long you stay.


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.


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

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Joshua Tree National Park is $152, 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 Joshua Tree National Park and Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Joshua Tree National Park $87
    Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park $62
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Joshua Tree National Park $174
    Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park $124
Compare Hotels in Joshua Tree National Park and Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park

Looking for a hotel in Joshua Tree National Park 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 Joshua Tree National Park


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.


Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Joshua Tree National Park $47
    Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park $56

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

Prices for flights to both Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park and Joshua Tree 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
    Joshua Tree National Park $35
    Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park $30

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Joshua Tree National Park $27
    Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park $21

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Joshua Tree National Park $4.93
    Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park $19


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


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