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

Should you visit Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park or Yellowstone 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 Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park and Yellowstone 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.

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. Other popular activities here include hiking.

Yellowstone National Park

Yellowstone National Park is a unique, stunning, and breathtaking national park. You'll find world class beauty here as well. It's also known for hiking.

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

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Good for hiking
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Pros
  • Nice resorts
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to Old Faithful


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

Visitors will usually find more to do in Yellowstone National Park than Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Yellowstone National Park is better known for its resorts, hiking, and impressive beauty, while Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park is more popular for its museums, nightlife, and shopping. Yellowstone National Park is more touristy than Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park and is known for its iconic geysers, breathtaking waterfalls, world-class hikes, and diverse wildlife. Also, Yellowstone National Park is famous for Old Faithful. Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park is well known for its alpine lakes, hydrothermal activity, and unique volcanoes.

How is Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park different from Yellowstone National Park?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Yellowstone National Park 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 Yellowstone National Park?

Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park
Yellowstone National Park

Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park is a park with a few options for its museums and landmarks. However, Yellowstone National Park does not have museums and landmarks.

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.

Yellowstone National Park does not have museums and landmarks.


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

Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park
Yellowstone National Park

Picking the best cuisine and restaurants between Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park and Yellowstone National Park can be difficult as they are each respectable in their own way.

Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park offers some easy restaurants to choose from. 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.

You'll find the standard options when it comes to food in Yellowstone National Park. This is a large park and there are a number of dining options available both inside and just outside of the park. Many places are seasonal so your options will be highest during the summer months. Like most national park venues, prices can be high and the quality is variable. It's recommended that you pack your own food and plan to picnic.

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

Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park
Yellowstone National Park

Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park is not so good for its evening party scene. However, Yellowstone National Park is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

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.

Yellowstone National Park is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Is Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park or Yellowstone National Park Better for Resorts?

Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park
Yellowstone National Park

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

In Yellowstone National Park, you'll find some of the region's top resorts. It is a large national park, and there are several impressive lodges nearby. Reservations are recommended well in advance. Within the park, Old Faithful Inn, Roosevelt Lodge, Lake Yellowstone Hotel, and Mammoth Hot Springs Hotel are all nice options.

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


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

Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park
Yellowstone National Park

Yellowstone 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 Yellowstone National Park visitors will find world-class hiking trails. The park is huge, and there are countless hikes throughout. From short strolls to lengthy endeavors, there really is something for everyone. If you want to see the geysers, some of the best hikes are Grand Prismatic Overlook Trail, the Upper Geyser Basin and Old Faithful Observation Point Loop, and the Lone Star Geyser Trail. For waterfalls you can check out Brink of the Lower Falls Trail, the North Rim Trail, and Fairy Falls Trail.

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 Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park or Yellowstone National Park?

Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park
Yellowstone National Park

Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park is a park with a few options for its shopping areas. However, Yellowstone National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

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.

Yellowstone National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

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

Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park
Yellowstone National Park

Yellowstone 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.

Yellowstone National Park is a very family-friendly place to visit. Kids who enjoy the outdoors and exploring new environments will appreciate a visit to this park. The geysers are fascinating for everyone and the waterfalls are breathtaking. There are ranger shows and other activities that are great for kids as well. Make sure you stop by the Visitor's Centers.

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 Yellowstone National Park Better for Couples?

Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park
Yellowstone National Park

Both Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park and Yellowstone National Park are excellent 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.

Yellowstone National Park makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. This park is a beautiful and romantic destination for couples who enjoy the outdoors. There are world-renowned hikes and breathtaking views. There are also lodges in the area that make for a romantic stay.

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

Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park
Yellowstone National Park

Yellowstone 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.

Yellowstone National Park is a mecca for backpackers and budget travelers. Backpackers will appreciate the campgrounds and affordable facilities that are found around the park. Reservations are recommended well in advance, particularly if you're hoping to stay inside the park.

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

Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park
Yellowstone National Park

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

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

Public transit is quite limited in Yellowstone National Park. There is no public transportation service available in the park. There are private tour options available.


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

Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park
Yellowstone National Park

Neither Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park or Yellowstone National Park 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.

Yellowstone National Park is not a very walkable park. This is among the largest national parks and a car is an absolute must if you hope to experience the different landscapes.

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

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

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

Both Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park and Yellowstone National Park have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Yellowstone National Park than in Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park, and 5-7 days is enough time in Yellowstone National Park.

Families should spend more time in Yellowstone National Park than Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Yellowstone 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 Yellowstone National Park. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park that are great for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

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


  • How many days in Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park or Yellowstone National Park? Ideal Length of Stay
    Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park 2-3 
    Yellowstone National Park 5-7

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

Visitors enjoy the when visiting the vast 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.

In Yellowstone National Park, many people enjoy the 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 Yellowstone National Park?

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.

Yellowstone National Park, a popular national park, is full of activities for travelers. In Yellowstone 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. 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 Yellowstone National Park?

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.

In Yellowstone National Park, many people enjoy the that this beautiful national park offers. If you have five days, this national park 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 hiking. 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 Yellowstone National Park?

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.

Yellowstone National Park 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 national park.


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, Yellowstone National Park 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 Yellowstone National Park is $147. 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 Yellowstone National Park in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park $62
    Yellowstone National Park $74
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park $124
    Yellowstone National Park $148
Compare Hotels in Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park and Yellowstone National Park

Looking for a hotel in Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park or Yellowstone 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 Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park


Hotels in Yellowstone 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.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Yellowstone National Park Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park $56
    Yellowstone National Park $37

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

Prices for flights to both Yellowstone National Park 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
    Yellowstone National Park $46

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park $21
    Yellowstone National Park $34

Tours and Activities in Yellowstone National Park

Here are a few actual costs in Yellowstone National Park for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • Yellowstone's Upper Geyser Basin: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $7.99
  • Self-Guided Grand Teton National Park Driving Tour: $8.99
  • Grand Prismatic Self-Guided Walking Audio Tour: $9.99
  • Yellowstone Old Faithful Self-Guided Walking Audio Tour: $9.99
  • West Thumb Geysers Self-Guided Walking Audio Tour: $9.99
  • Yellowstone National Park Self-Guided Driving Audio Tour: $17
  • Early Morning Guided Kayak Tour: $125
  • Lake Yellowstone Half Day Kayak Tours Past Geothermal Features : $135
  • Small-Group Sunset Kayaking Tour on Lake Yellowstone : $150
  • Yellowstone Lake Twilight Tour: $150
  • 6-Mile Geyser Hiking Tour in Yellowstone with Lunch: $182
  • Lamar Valley Safari Hiking Tour with Lunch: $182

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


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


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