A Travel Price Comparison for United States of America Ketchikan vs. Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park for Food, Hiking, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Ketchikan 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 Ketchikan and Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park can help you decide which place is right for you.

Ketchikan

Ketchikan is a local, scenic, and quaint town. It's a very nice small town not to be missed. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for food, hiking, and shopping.

Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park

Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park is a overlooked, underrated, and vast park. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for hiking.

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

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Very walkable
  • Impressive beauty
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 walkable


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

Tourists will generally find more to do in Ketchikan. Although Ketchikan and Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park are both popular with visitors, Ketchikan has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Ketchikan is more touristy than Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park and is known for its salmon fishing, beautiful natural environment, and strong sense of local culture. It is also home to the Southeast Alaska Discovery Center. Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park is popular for its alpine lakes, hydrothermal activity, and unique volcanoes.

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

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

Ketchikan
Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park

Ketchikan is a town with good options for its sights and museums. However, Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park is not a good park for its museums and history.

Ketchikan is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. There are a few local museums in town such as the Tongass Historical Museum and the Totem Heritage Center.

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 Ketchikan or Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Ketchikan
Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park

Ketchikan is an amazing town to visit for its local cuisine and restaurants. However, Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park is not a good park for its restaurants.

Many restaurants in Ketchikan have been singled out for their culinary prowess. It's known as the salmon capital of the world for good reason. You can expect some of the freshest seafood around with many local restaurants serving up fresh Dungeness Crab, Alaska King Crab, and Alaskan King Salmon. It's a huge fishing destination and the cuisine reflects that, but even if you're looking for a landlover's menu, you'll find a number of good dishes.

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 Ketchikan or Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park Better for Nightlife?

Ketchikan
Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park

Ketchikan is a moderate town for nightlife. However, Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park is not a good park for nightlife and partying.

Most people don't head to Ketchikan specifically for the nightlife scene, but you can find a few options. Because most visitors arrive by cruise ship, there's a more local vibe to the nightlife scene. You'll find a few local bars around town where you can enjoy a drink and good conversation.

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 Ketchikan or Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park Better for Hiking?

Ketchikan
Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park

Ketchikan is an amazing town 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 Ketchikan visitors will find world-class hiking trails. You'll find many hikes that will take you through the local vegetation or to impressive viewpoints. Some hikes involve challenging climbs while others are more relaxing. Some visitors prefer to hire a guide to the lead them through the Alaskan wilderness, but the most popular and easier trails are usually well marked.

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 Ketchikan or Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park?

Ketchikan
Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park

Ketchikan is a town with good options for shopping. However, Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park is not a good park for its shopping opportunities.

Ketchikan is a great destination for shopping. As tourism has grown, the shopping in downtown Ketchikan has shifted from locally-oriented venders to jewelry and souvenir stores. Many shops are only open during the summer months, and you'll find the more local shops outside of town.

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 Ketchikan or Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park Better for Families?

Ketchikan
Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park

Ketchikan 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.

Ketchikan is a very family-friendly place to visit. There are a number of kid-friendly activities and tours, but do note that many tours book up fully with cruise ship passengers. Any tours you wish to do should be arranged well in advance. Popular kid-friendly activities include the Great Alaskan Lumberjack Show, Misty Fjords, and a visit to Totem Bight State Historical Park. Everyone will enjoy learning about the area's history and nature at the Southeast Alaska Discovery Center. And anyone who enjoys the show "The Most Dangerous Catch" will appreciate the Bering Sea Crab Fishermen's Tour.

Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park is a family-friendly town. 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 Ketchikan or Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park Better for Couples?

Ketchikan
Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park

Both Ketchikan and Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park are superb destinations to visit as a couple.

Ketchikan is a very popular place to visit for couples. Couples who enjoy natural beauty, hiking, and wildlife will appreciate their time here. There are many opportunities for fishing and a plethora of seafood restaurants in the area that take advantage of this past time.

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

Ketchikan
Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park

Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park is notable for backpackers. Also, Ketchikan is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers come from all over to 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 Ketchikan. While most visitors arrive by cruise ship, for those travel independently will appreciate the hostel in town.

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

Ketchikan
Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park

Ketchikan is a moderate town 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 is generally limited in Ketchikan. There are buses that travel through town.

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

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

Ketchikan
Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park

Ketchikan is a well-known place for its walkability. However, Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park is not a good park for its high level of walkability.

Ketchikan is very walkable. The downtown is relatively compact and walkable.

Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park is not a very walkable town. 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 Ketchikan Worth Visiting? and Is Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park Worth Visiting?.

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

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

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Ketchikan and Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park. In our opinion, Ketchikan has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Ketchikan than Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park. In general, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Ketchikan, and 2-3 days is enough time in Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Ketchikan 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 Ketchikan.


  • How many days in Ketchikan or Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park? Ideal Length of Stay
    Ketchikan 1-3 
    Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park 2-3

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

In Ketchikan, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this beautiful destination offers. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. One day should give you a good understanding of everything this town has to offer. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

You'll find around the park of Mt. Lassen Volcanic 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.

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

Ketchikan, a popular town, is full of activities for travelers. In Ketchikan, many people enjoy the museums and food that this quaint 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.

You'll find around the overlooked destination of Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park. Hikers are also drawn to this area. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this park has to offer. This park offers a variety of activities to choose from.

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

Travelers enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the beautiful town of Ketchikan. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. 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.

Travelers enjoy the when visiting the vast park of Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.


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

Ketchikan 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. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. One week 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. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in United States of America, The Best Polar Tours & Cruises in United States of America, The Best Walking Tours in United States of America, and The Best Tours Under $1000 in United States of America.


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

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Ketchikan is $220, 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 Ketchikan and Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Ketchikan $136
    Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park $62
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Ketchikan $272
    Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park $124
Compare Hotels in Ketchikan and Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park

Looking for a hotel in Ketchikan 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 Ketchikan


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.
    Ketchikan $39
    Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park $56
Typical Local Transportation Prices in Ketchikan

Some typical examples of transportation costs in Ketchikan are as follows:


  • Bus Ride
    $1.00

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

Prices for flights to both Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park and Ketchikan 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
    Ketchikan $53
    Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park $30
Typical Food Prices in Ketchikan

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


  • Slice of Pie & Drink
    $5.00

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Ketchikan $46
    Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park $21
Typical Entertainment Prices in Ketchikan

Some typical examples of activities, tours, and entrance ticket prices in Ketchikan are as follows:


  • Ticket to Great Alaskan Lumberjack Show
    $35
  • Duck Tour (one person)
    $38
  • Bear Viewing Tour
    $83

Tours and Activities in Ketchikan

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

  • Self-Guided Audio Tour: $14
  • Husky Walking Tour: $49
  • City Highlights Totem Parks and Sightseeing: $59
  • Saxman Native Village and Ketchikan Highlights Private Tour: $69
  • 2.5 Hour Tour in Ketchikan on the Tongass Trolley: $72
  • Ketchikan Duck Tour: $75
  • Totem Pole, Wildlife & City Trolley Tour: $85
  • 2 Hour Alaska Rainforest Walk and Totem Park Small Group Tour: $85
  • From Potlatch Totem Park and Herring Cove Tour: $85
  • Alaska Native Cultural Immersion Experience and Ketchikan Tour: $89
  • Alaska Native Cultural Immersion Experience: $89
  • Cruisin' and Boozin' - 90 minute Historical Walking Tour of Sites and Bars: $95

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Ketchikan $23
    Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park $19


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



When is the best time to visit Ketchikan 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 Ketchikan or Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park in the Summer?

Both Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park and Ketchikan are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Ketchikan for the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park in the summer for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences.

Ketchikan is much colder than Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park in the summer. The daily temperature in Ketchikan averages around 58°F (15°C) in July, and Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park fluctuates around 83°F (29°C).

It's quite rainy in Ketchikan. In July, Ketchikan usually receives more rain than Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park. Ketchikan gets 7.6 inches (193 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
    Ketchikan 58°F (15°C) 
    Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park 83°F (29°C)

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

Both Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park and Ketchikan during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Ketchikan in the autumn for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, 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 the autumn, Ketchikan is much colder than Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Ketchikan in October average around 46°F (8°C), and Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park averages at about 66°F (19°C).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Ketchikan. Ketchikan usually gets more rain in October than Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park. Ketchikan gets 22.9 inches (581 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
    Ketchikan 46°F (8°C) 
    Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park 66°F (19°C)

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

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Ketchikan and Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park. Most visitors come to Ketchikan for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Furthermore, the winter months attract visitors to Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Ketchikan can be very cold during winter. In January, Ketchikan is generally much colder than Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park. Daily temperatures in Ketchikan average around 34°F (1°C), 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. Ketchikan gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In January, Ketchikan usually receives more rain than Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park. Ketchikan gets 14.9 inches (379 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
    Ketchikan 34°F (1°C) 
    Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park 47°F (9°C)

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

The spring brings many poeple to Ketchikan as well as Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park. The spring months attract visitors to Ketchikan because of the small town charm and the natural beauty. Additionally, the natural beauty are the main draw to Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park this time of year.

Ketchikan is much colder than Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park in the spring. The daily temperature in Ketchikan averages around 44°F (6°C) in April, and Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park fluctuates around 60°F (16°C).

Ketchikan receives a lot of rain in the spring. Ketchikan usually gets more rain in April than Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park. Ketchikan gets 11.3 inches (286 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
    Ketchikan 44°F (6°C) 
    Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park 60°F (16°C)

Typical Weather for Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park and Ketchikan

Ketchikan Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 34°F (1°C) 14.9 inches (379 mm) 47°F (9°C) 4.1 inches (104 mm)
Feb 38°F (3°C) 13.2 inches (335 mm) 52°F (11°C) 3.4 inches (86 mm)
Mar 39°F (4°C) 10.6 inches (270 mm) 55°F (13°C) 3.1 inches (78 mm)
Apr 44°F (6°C) 11.3 inches (286 mm) 60°F (16°C) 1.4 inches (35 mm)
May 49°F (9°C) 9.3 inches (237 mm) 69°F (21°C) 0.8 inches (20 mm)
Jun 54°F (12°C) 8.2 inches (209 mm) 78°F (25°C) 0.4 inches (11 mm)
Jul 58°F (15°C) 7.6 inches (193 mm) 83°F (29°C) 0.1 inches (2 mm)
Aug 59°F (15°C) 11.1 inches (281 mm) 81°F (27°C) 0.2 inches (6 mm)
Sep 54°F (12°C) 13.2 inches (335 mm) 76°F (25°C) 0.6 inches (16 mm)
Oct 46°F (8°C) 22.9 inches (581 mm) 66°F (19°C) 1.5 inches (37 mm)
Nov 40°F (4°C) 17.3 inches (441 mm) 54°F (12°C) 3.6 inches (91 mm)
Dec 36°F (2°C) 15.7 inches (398 mm) 47°F (9°C) 3.4 inches (88 mm)


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