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

Should you visit Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park or Columbia River Gorge?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park and Columbia River Gorge 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.

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.

Columbia River Gorge

Columbia River Gorge is a scenic, natural, and beautiful region. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for nightlife, food, and hiking.

Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park and Columbia River Gorge: 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
  • Less popular for food
  • Less popular for nightlife
Pros
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • 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 Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park or Columbia River Gorge?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Columbia River Gorge. Although Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park and Columbia River Gorge are both popular with visitors, Columbia River Gorge has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Columbia River Gorge is more touristy than Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park and is known for its hiking, biking, and high number of waterfalls. It is also home to Vista House at Crown Point. Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park is popular for its alpine lakes, hydrothermal activity, and unique volcanoes.

How is Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park different from Columbia River Gorge?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park
Columbia River Gorge

Both Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park and Columbia River Gorge have decent landmarks and museums for visitors.

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.

While most people don't head to Columbia River Gorge specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. There are a couple of local museums in the area, but most visitors spend their time exploring the region's natural beauty.


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

Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park
Columbia River Gorge

Columbia River Gorge 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, Columbia River Gorge makes for a great culinary experience. You'll find many great restaurants in the area that serve local dishes that make use of the region's agricultural scene.

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 Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park or Columbia River Gorge Better for Nightlife?

Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park
Columbia River Gorge

Columbia River Gorge is a region with good options for nightlife. However, Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park is not a good park for nightlife and partying.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Columbia River Gorge. Local breweries, wineries, and bars offer a relaxing setting with a local vibe.

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 Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park or Columbia River Gorge Better for Hiking?

Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park
Columbia River Gorge

Both Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park and Columbia River Gorge are destinations which offer high quality hiking.

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.

Many visitors explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting Columbia River Gorge. There are world-class hikes that take you to iconic waterfalls, breathtaking viewpoints, and along scenic waterways.


Is the Shopping Better in Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park or Columbia River Gorge?

Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park
Columbia River Gorge

Columbia River Gorge is a region with good options for shopping. However, Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park is not a good park for its shopping opportunities.

Columbia River Gorge is a great destination for shopping. Art galleries feature local artwork and artisan crafts. There are photography shops and other venues that sell items highlighting the region's beauty.

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 Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park or Columbia River Gorge Better for Families?

Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park
Columbia River Gorge

Columbia River Gorge 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.

Columbia River Gorge is a very family-friendly place to visit. Kids will love exploring the waterfalls and mountains as much as the adults do. There are kid-friendly hikes as well as bakeries and restaurants with many kid options.

Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park is a family-friendly 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 Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park or Columbia River Gorge Better for Couples?

Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park
Columbia River Gorge

Both Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park and Columbia River Gorge are high quality destinations for a couple's getaway.

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.

Columbia River Gorge makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Couples will love the romantic hikes and waterfalls. There are also beautiful scenic viewpoints and wonderful restaurants.


Is Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park or Columbia River Gorge Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park
Columbia River Gorge

Both Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park and Columbia River Gorge are high quality destinations for backpackers.

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.

Many backpackers visit Columbia River Gorge. You'll find hostels and campgrounds in the area that are perfect for backpackers and budget travelers.

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

Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park
Columbia River Gorge

Columbia River Gorge is a moderate region 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 Columbia River Gorge. There are some buses, but don't rely on them to efficiently explore.

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

Is Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park or Columbia River Gorge a more walkable city?

Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park
Columbia River Gorge

Neither Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park or Columbia River Gorge are walkable places.

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

Columbia River Gorge is not a very walkable park. You really need a car to explore the area, but some visitors rely on a bike.


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

Should I spend more time in Columbia River Gorge or Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park?

How long in Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park or Columbia River Gorge?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park and Columbia River Gorge. In our opinion, Columbia River Gorge has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Columbia River Gorge 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 Columbia River Gorge than Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Columbia River Gorge, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Columbia River Gorge 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 Columbia River Gorge.


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

One day in Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park or Columbia River Gorge?

Many travelers enjoy the when visiting the beautiful destination of Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

In Columbia River Gorge, many people enjoy the food and shopping 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.

A weekend in Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park or Columbia River Gorge?

Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park is a fun place to experience. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. 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.

Columbia River Gorge, a popular region, is full of activities for travelers. In Columbia River Gorge, many people enjoy the shopping and nightlife that this scenic 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.

Five days in Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park or Columbia River Gorge?

Many people visit Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park for five days. You'll find around the beautiful park of Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park. 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.

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the beautiful region of Columbia River Gorge. 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.


A week in Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park or Columbia River Gorge?

The overlooked destination of Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park offers . Hikers are also drawn to this area. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Columbia River Gorge 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.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Train & Rail Tours in United States of America, The Best Sightseeing Tours in United States of America, The Best Cruise Tours and Packages in United States of America, and The Best Cultural Tours in United States of America.


Which place is cheaper, Columbia River Gorge or Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park is $126, while the average daily cost in Columbia River Gorge is $179. 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 Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park and Columbia River Gorge in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park $62
    Columbia River Gorge $89
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park $124
    Columbia River Gorge $178
Compare Hotels in Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park and Columbia River Gorge

Looking for a hotel in Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park or Columbia River Gorge? 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 Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park


Hotels in Columbia River Gorge


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.
    Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park $56
    Columbia River Gorge $78

Is it cheaper to fly into Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park or Columbia River Gorge?

Prices for flights to both Columbia River Gorge and Mt. Lassen Volcanic 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
    Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park $30
    Columbia River Gorge $46

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park $21
    Columbia River Gorge $20

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park $19
    Columbia River Gorge $12


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



When is the best time to visit Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park or Columbia River Gorge?

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 Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park or Columbia River Gorge in the Summer?

Both Columbia River Gorge and Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Columbia River Gorge because of the hiking and the family-friendly experiences.

Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park is a little warmer than Columbia River Gorge in the summer. The daily temperature in Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park averages around 83°F (29°C) in July, and Columbia River Gorge fluctuates around 68°F (20°C).

It's quite sunny in Columbia River Gorge. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park. Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park usually receives more sunshine than Columbia River Gorge during summer. Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park gets 436 hours of sunny skies, while Columbia River Gorge receives 338 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park usually receives less rain than Columbia River Gorge. Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park gets 0.1 inches (2 mm) of rain, while Columbia River Gorge receives 0.7 inches (18 mm) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park 83°F (29°C) 
    Columbia River Gorge 68°F (20°C)

Should I visit Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park or Columbia River Gorge in the Autumn?

Both Columbia River Gorge and Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park during the autumn are popular places to visit. The autumn months attract visitors to Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park because of the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Columbia River Gorge this time of year.

In the autumn, Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park is much warmer than Columbia River Gorge. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park in October average around 66°F (19°C), and Columbia River Gorge averages at about 55°F (13°C).

It's quite sunny in Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park. In the autumn, Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park often gets more sunshine than Columbia River Gorge. Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park gets 284 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Columbia River Gorge receives 155 hours of full sun.

Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park usually gets less rain in October than Columbia River Gorge. Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park gets 1.5 inches (37 mm) of rain, while Columbia River Gorge receives 2.6 inches (67 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park 66°F (19°C) 
    Columbia River Gorge 55°F (13°C)

Should I visit Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park or Columbia River Gorge in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park and Columbia River Gorge. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Columbia River Gorge for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Columbia River Gorge. In January, Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park is generally much warmer than Columbia River Gorge. Daily temperatures in Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park average around 47°F (9°C), and Columbia River Gorge fluctuates around 40°F (4°C).

Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park usually receives more sunshine than Columbia River Gorge during winter. Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park gets 162 hours of sunny skies, while Columbia River Gorge receives 86 hours of full sun in the winter.

Columbia River Gorge receives a lot of rain in the winter. Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In January, Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park usually receives less rain than Columbia River Gorge. Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park gets 4.1 inches (104 mm) of rain, while Columbia River Gorge receives 5.2 inches (132 mm) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park 47°F (9°C) 
    Columbia River Gorge 40°F (4°C)

Should I visit Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park or Columbia River Gorge in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park as well as Columbia River Gorge. Many travelers come to Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park for the natural beauty. Also, many visitors come to Columbia River Gorge in the spring for the natural beauty.

Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park is a little warmer than Columbia River Gorge in the spring. The daily temperature in Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park averages around 60°F (16°C) in April, and Columbia River Gorge fluctuates around 51°F (11°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Columbia River Gorge. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park this time of the year. In the spring, Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park often gets more sunshine than Columbia River Gorge. Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park gets 329 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Columbia River Gorge receives 231 hours of full sun.

Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park usually gets less rain in April than Columbia River Gorge. Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park gets 1.4 inches (35 mm) of rain, while Columbia River Gorge receives 2.4 inches (61 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park 60°F (16°C) 
    Columbia River Gorge 51°F (11°C)

Typical Weather for Columbia River Gorge and Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park

Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park Columbia River Gorge
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 47°F (9°C) 4.1 inches (104 mm) 40°F (4°C) 5.2 inches (132 mm)
Feb 52°F (11°C) 3.4 inches (86 mm) 44°F (7°C) 3.9 inches (98 mm)
Mar 55°F (13°C) 3.1 inches (78 mm) 47°F (9°C) 3.6 inches (92 mm)
Apr 60°F (16°C) 1.4 inches (35 mm) 51°F (11°C) 2.4 inches (61 mm)
May 69°F (21°C) 0.8 inches (20 mm) 57°F (14°C) 2 inches (51 mm)
Jun 78°F (25°C) 0.4 inches (11 mm) 64°F (18°C) 1.5 inches (39 mm)
Jul 83°F (29°C) 0.1 inches (2 mm) 68°F (20°C) 0.7 inches (18 mm)
Aug 81°F (27°C) 0.2 inches (6 mm) 69°F (20°C) 1 inches (25 mm)
Sep 76°F (25°C) 0.6 inches (16 mm) 63°F (17°C) 1.7 inches (44 mm)
Oct 66°F (19°C) 1.5 inches (37 mm) 55°F (13°C) 2.6 inches (67 mm)
Nov 54°F (12°C) 3.6 inches (91 mm) 46°F (8°C) 5.4 inches (136 mm)
Dec 47°F (9°C) 3.4 inches (88 mm) 40°F (5°C) 6.1 inches (156 mm)


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