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

Should you visit Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park or Sun Valley?

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 Sun Valley 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.

Sun Valley

Sun Valley is a adventurous, outdoorsy, and active town. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for skiing, nightlife, and food.

Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park and Sun Valley: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Good for hiking
  • 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 family-friendly
  • Public transit not as usable
  • Less walkable
Pros
  • Popular for skiing
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good public transit
  • Very walkable
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights


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

Tourists will generally find more to do in Sun Valley. Although Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park and Sun Valley are both popular with visitors, Sun Valley has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Sun Valley is more touristy than Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park and is known for its ski resorts as well as being the home of Ernest Hemingway. It is also home to Sawtooth National Recreation Area. 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 Sun Valley?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park or Sun Valley Better for Skiing?

Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park
Sun Valley

Sun Valley is an amazing town to visit for snow skiing. However, Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park is not a skiing destination.

Visitors will find world class skiing in Sun Valley. There are plenty of slopes that are accessible by lift as well as backcountry terrain for those who are more adventurous. The ski areas include Bald Mountain, which is next to Ketchum, and Dollar Mountain, by Sun Valley. Bald Mountain is best for advanced skiers and Dollar Mountain has options for beginners and intermediates.

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


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

Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park
Sun Valley

Both Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park and Sun Valley 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 Sun Valley specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. Museums in the area include the Sun Valley Museum of Art and the Wood River Museum of History and Culture.

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

Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park
Sun Valley

Sun Valley 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, Sun Valley makes for a great culinary experience. Many restaurants pride themselves in using local, organic, and sustainable ingredients. You'll find everything from cafes and bakeries to sushi, pizza, and Mediterranean.

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 Sun Valley Better for Nightlife?

Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park
Sun Valley

Sun Valley is a town 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 Sun Valley. It's a low key town with relaxing bars and breweries where you can enjoy a cold drink after a day on the slopes. It's not a party town that's high energy, but there are plenty of places where you can hang out in a mellow setting.

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 Sun Valley Better for Resorts?

Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park
Sun Valley

Sun Valley is a well-known place for its resorts. However, Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park is not a resort destination.

In Sun Valley, you'll find some of the region's top resorts. The most popular place to stay is Sun Valley Lodge, but there are also other small lodges and hotels in the area.

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

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

Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park
Sun Valley

Both Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park and Sun Valley are destinations which offer very good 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 Sun Valley. During the warmer months you'll enjoy miles of hiking trails in the area that take you by fields of wildflowers and to scenic mountain overlooks. White Cloud Trails is a relatively easy 4 mile trail that many visitors enjoy. Baker Lake and Taylor Canyon are also nice options.

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

Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park
Sun Valley

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

Sun Valley is a great destination for shopping. While most visitors spend their time adventuring outdoors, there are also plenty of shopping options in the area. Whether you need to pick up hiking or ski gear, or you want to browse some local boutiques, you'll find shops that meet your need.

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 Sun Valley Better for Families?

Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park
Sun Valley

Sun Valley is an amazing town to visit 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.

Sun Valley is an extremely popular town to visit for families. During the winter months there's skiing, ice skating, and other winter activities. During the warmer months families will enjoy riding the Roundhouse Express Gondola, hiking through the mountains, or horseback riding.

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 Sun Valley Better for Couples?

Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park
Sun Valley

Sun Valley is an amazing town 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.

Sun Valley is a great town for couples, as it has plenty to offer. Couples who enjoy winter sports and outdoor activities will love a romantic getaway to the area. There's also a charming downtown area that has great restaurants. In the surrounding countryside there's plenty of spectacular hikes that couples will enjoy as well.

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

Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park
Sun Valley

Both Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park and Sun Valley are very good 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 Sun Valley. There are a couple of hostels in the area and plenty of activities that appeal to the backpacker crowd.


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

Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park
Sun Valley

Sun Valley is a well-known place 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 Sun Valley is fairly effecient and thorough. There are free shuttle buses that run through Wood River Valley including connections between the Village and Dollar and Bald Mountains. It's also connected to Ketchum and Elkhorn Springs.

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 Sun Valley a more walkable city?

Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park
Sun Valley

Sun Valley is an amazing town 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 Sun Valley on foot. It's easy to walk to almost anything you need if you stay at a conveniently located hotel.

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

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

How long in Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park or Sun Valley?

Both Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park and Sun Valley have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Sun Valley than in Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park, and 3-7 days is enough time in Sun Valley.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Sun Valley 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 Sun Valley.


  • How many days in Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park or Sun Valley? Ideal Length of Stay
    Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park 2-3 
    Sun Valley 3-7

One day in Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park or Sun Valley?

With around the underrated park of Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

In Sun Valley, many people enjoy the food and shopping that this beautiful destination offers. It's also a relaxing resort destination. 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 Sun Valley?

With around the destination of Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park, there's plenty to do. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this park.

Sun Valley, a popular town, is full of activities for travelers. In Sun Valley, many people enjoy the shopping and skiing that this outdoorsy destination offers. Lots of people come for the skiing. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

Five days in Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park or Sun Valley?

Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park, a popular park, is full of activities for travelers. 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. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

In Sun Valley, many people enjoy the skiing and nightlife that this beautiful town offers. If you have five days, this town makes for a great vacation. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. Lots of people come for the skiing. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then five days is just the right amount of time to spend here.

A week in Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park or Sun Valley?

Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Sun Valley is a popular choice for travelers. One week here is typical. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. Anyone can find something fun to do here. In one week, you should have a good grasp of this town.


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, Sun Valley 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 Sun Valley is $184. 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 Sun Valley in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park $62
    Sun Valley $95
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park $124
    Sun Valley $190
Compare Hotels in Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park and Sun Valley

Looking for a hotel in Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park or Sun Valley? 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 Sun Valley


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: Sun Valley Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park $56
    Sun Valley $61

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

Prices for flights to both Sun Valley 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
    Sun Valley $48

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park $21
    Sun Valley $42

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park $19
    Sun Valley $49


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