A Travel Price Comparison for California Napa Valley vs. Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park for Food, Couples, Hiking, and Backpackers

Should you visit Napa Valley 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 Napa Valley 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.

Napa Valley

Napa Valley is a scenic, picturesque, and idyllic area. You'll find world class beauty here as well. It's also known for nightlife, food, and 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.

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

Pros
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Good for hiking
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less popular with backpackers
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
  • Less popular for shopping


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

Visitors will usually find more to do in Napa Valley than Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Napa Valley is more touristy than Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park and is popular for its world class wineries and beautiful countryside. Also, Napa Valley is famous for Louis M. Martini Winery. Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park is well known for its alpine lakes, hydrothermal activity, and unique volcanoes.

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

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

Napa Valley
Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park

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

While most people don't head to Napa Valley specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. Most visitors spend their time visiting vineyards, but there are a couple of local museums and galleries in the area that are worth checking out.

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

Napa Valley
Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park

Napa Valley is an amazing area 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 Napa Valley have been singled out for their culinary prowess. It's most known for its world-class wine, but Napa Valley is also filled with Michelin starred restaurants and charming local eateries. Whether you're looking for a casual meal or something more upscale, there is no shortage of options. Most places take advantage of local ingredients that are very fresh. Menus change regularly and seasonal ingredients are common. And, of course, you'll find a wide selection of local wines.

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 Napa Valley or Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park Better for Nightlife?

Napa Valley
Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park

Napa Valley is a well-known place for nightlife. However, Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park is not a good park for nightlife and partying.

Napa Valley offers plenty to do in the evening. In the evening, visitors will enjoy the area's live music scene, theaters, and bars. There are also plenty of wine bars where you can continue to enjoy local wines.

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

Napa Valley
Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park

Both Napa Valley and Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park are destinations which offer great hiking.

Many visitors go to Napa Valley for the hiking trails. There are a number of state parks in the area, and there are also trails that pass by vineyards. Some of the best hiking trails are found in Alston Park, Bothe-Napa Valley State Park, or Las Posadas State Forest.

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.


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

Napa Valley
Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park

Napa Valley is a well-known place for shopping. However, Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park is not a good park for its shopping opportunities.

Napa Valley is an extremely popular place for shoppers. There are many interesting local boutiques in the different towns. You'll find shops selling clothing, jewelry, local items, and gifts. Some of the best shopping is found along First Street in downtown Napa.

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 Napa Valley or Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park Better for Families?

Napa Valley
Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park

Both Napa Valley and Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park are notable to visit with kids.

Napa Valley offers lots of family activities. Vineyards and wine tasting may be what comes to mind for most travelers in Napa Valley, but those visiting with kids will appreciate the hiking trails, markets, and outdoor activities.

Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park is a family-friendly place to visit. 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 Napa Valley or Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park Better for Couples?

Napa Valley
Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park

Napa Valley is an amazing area 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.

Napa Valley is a great area for couples, as it has plenty to offer. It's long been considered a favorite honeymoon destination for newly-weds. The scenic vineyards and charming hotels make this the perfect couple's destination, whether you're celebrating an anniversary or simply want some time away together.

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

Napa Valley
Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park

Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park is a great park for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Napa Valley is not known for backpackers.

Plenty of budget travelers and 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.

Napa Valley is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. It's considered to be more of a luxury destination than a backpacker's retreat, but there are a few affordable places to stay in the area.

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

Napa Valley
Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park

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

Public transit is quite limited in Napa Valley. Public transit in the area is limited but within the city of Napa there are buses operated by the Vine Transit.

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

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

Napa Valley
Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park

Neither Napa Valley or Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park are walkable places.

Napa Valley is not a very walkable area. The vineyards are spread out and require a car or bike to access.

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

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

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

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Napa Valley and Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Napa Valley than in Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park. Usually, 1-4 days is a good amount of time for Napa Valley, and 2-3 days is enough time in Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park than Napa Valley 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 Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park.


  • How many days in Napa Valley or Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park? Ideal Length of Stay
    Napa Valley 1-4 
    Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park 2-3

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

In Napa Valley, many people enjoy the food and shopping 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 area has to offer. 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. Hikers are also drawn to this area. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A weekend in Napa Valley or Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park?

Napa Valley, a popular area, is full of activities for travelers. In Napa Valley, many people enjoy the shopping and nightlife that this scenic destination offers. Lots of people come for the food. 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 vast destination of Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. This park offers something for everyone. Plenty of people spend a weekend in the area when traveling. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

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

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the beautiful area of Napa Valley. 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 food. 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.

The underrated park of Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park offers . Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.


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

Napa Valley 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.

Many people enjoy the when visiting Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.


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 Napa Valley?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Napa Valley is $288, 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 Napa Valley and Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Napa Valley $126
    Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park $62
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Napa Valley $252
    Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park $124
Compare Hotels in Napa Valley and Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park

Looking for a hotel in Napa Valley 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 Napa Valley


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.


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

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Napa Valley $183
    Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park $56

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Napa Valley

Also for Napa Valley, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Napa, CA to Sacramento Airport (SMF) - Departure Private Transfer : $110
  • Private Airport Transfer from Sonoma to SFO (One-way): $286

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

Prices for flights to both Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park and Napa Valley 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
    Napa Valley $62
    Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park $30

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Napa Valley $28
    Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park $21

Tours and Activities in Napa Valley

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Napa Valley.

  • Sonoma Scavenger Hunt Walking Tour & Game: $25
  • Napa Valley River History Kayak Tour: Single Kayaks: $79
  • Napa and Sonoma Wine and Food Experience (Napa pickup): $109
  • Napa Valley Wineries Tour Including Picnic Lunch: $125
  • The Original Napa Valley Wine Trolley "Up Valley" Castle Tour : $125
  • The Original Napa Valley Wine Trolley Classic Tour: $125
  • Sonoma Valley Open Air Wine Trolley Tour: $125
  • Small-Group Wine-Tasting Tour through Sonoma Valley: $130
  • Small-Group Wine-Tasting Tour through Napa Valley: $130
  • Half Day Tour: $139
  • Half Day Bike Tour: $139
  • Napa Valley River History Kayak Tour: 2 Person Tandem : $158

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Napa Valley $66
    Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park $19

Sample the Local Flavors in Napa Valley

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Napa Valley:

  • Private Self-Guided Wine Tasting Tour in Sonoma: $50
  • 6 Hour Wine Tour in Napa & Sonoma with Pick-Up from Napa: $109
  • Napa Cable Car Wine Tasting Tour: $129
  • Intro to Wine Tasting with Napa Sommelière : $195
  • Healdsburg Cycling Wine Tour : $199
  • Yountville Food and Wine Tour in Napa: $275
  • Napa's Downtown Food & Wine Tour : $275
  • Private, Customized Sonoma Valley Wine Tour: $300


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



When is the best time to visit Napa Valley or Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park?

Both places have a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. As both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Napa Valley or Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park in the Summer?

Both Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park and Napa Valley during the summer are popular places to visit. The summer months attract visitors to Napa Valley because of the hiking and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the hiking and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park this time of year.

In the summer, Napa Valley is cooler than Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park. Typically, the summer temperatures in Napa Valley in July average around 73°F (23°C), and Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park averages at about 83°F (29°C).

In Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Napa Valley. In the summer, Napa Valley often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park. Napa Valley gets 439 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park receives 436 hours of full sun.

Napa Valley usually gets less rain in July than Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park. Napa Valley gets 0.1 inches (2 mm) of rain, while Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park receives 0.1 inches (2 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Napa Valley 73°F (23°C) 
    Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park 83°F (29°C)

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

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Napa Valley and Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park. The hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Napa Valley this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Napa Valley is generally cooler than Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park. Daily temperatures in Napa Valley average around 62°F (17°C), and Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park fluctuates around 66°F (19°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park this time of the year. In Napa Valley, it's very sunny this time of the year. Napa Valley usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park during autumn. Napa Valley gets 300 hours of sunny skies, while Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park receives 284 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Napa Valley usually receives less rain than Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park. Napa Valley gets 1.3 inches (33 mm) of rain, while Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park receives 1.5 inches (37 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Napa Valley 62°F (17°C) 
    Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park 66°F (19°C)

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

The winter brings many poeple to Napa Valley as well as Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park. Many travelers come to Napa Valley for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Napa Valley is cooler than Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park in the winter. The daily temperature in Napa Valley averages around 46°F (8°C) in January, and Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park fluctuates around 47°F (9°C).

In the winter, Napa Valley often gets less sunshine than Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park. Napa Valley gets 149 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park receives 162 hours of full sun.

It's quite rainy in Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park. Napa Valley usually gets less rain in January than Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park. Napa Valley gets 3.8 inches (96 mm) of rain, while Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park receives 4.1 inches (104 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Napa Valley 46°F (8°C) 
    Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park 47°F (9°C)

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

Both Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park and Napa Valley are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Napa Valley in the spring for the natural beauty. Also, most visitors come to Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park for the natural beauty during these months.

In the spring, Napa Valley is cooler than Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park. Typically, the spring temperatures in Napa Valley in April average around 56°F (13°C), and Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park averages at about 60°F (16°C).

It's quite sunny in Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Napa Valley. Napa Valley usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park during spring. Napa Valley gets 328 hours of sunny skies, while Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park receives 329 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Napa Valley usually receives less rain than Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park. Napa Valley gets 1.2 inches (31 mm) of rain, while Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park receives 1.4 inches (35 mm) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Napa Valley 56°F (13°C) 
    Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park 60°F (16°C)

Typical Weather for Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park and Napa Valley

Napa Valley Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 46°F (8°C) 3.8 inches (96 mm) 47°F (9°C) 4.1 inches (104 mm)
Feb 51°F (11°C) 2.7 inches (69 mm) 52°F (11°C) 3.4 inches (86 mm)
Mar 54°F (12°C) 2.7 inches (69 mm) 55°F (13°C) 3.1 inches (78 mm)
Apr 56°F (13°C) 1.2 inches (31 mm) 60°F (16°C) 1.4 inches (35 mm)
May 64°F (18°C) 0.2 inches (5 mm) 69°F (21°C) 0.8 inches (20 mm)
Jun 69°F (21°C) 0.1 inches (3 mm) 78°F (25°C) 0.4 inches (11 mm)
Jul 73°F (23°C) 0.1 inches (2 mm) 83°F (29°C) 0.1 inches (2 mm)
Aug 72°F (22°C) 0.1 inches (1 mm) 81°F (27°C) 0.2 inches (6 mm)
Sep 70°F (21°C) 0.3 inches (7 mm) 76°F (25°C) 0.6 inches (16 mm)
Oct 62°F (17°C) 1.3 inches (33 mm) 66°F (19°C) 1.5 inches (37 mm)
Nov 54°F (12°C) 2.8 inches (71 mm) 54°F (12°C) 3.6 inches (91 mm)
Dec 46°F (8°C) 2.7 inches (68 mm) 47°F (9°C) 3.4 inches (88 mm)