A Travel Price Comparison for California Palm Springs vs. Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park for Food, Hiking, Families, and Couples

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

Palm Springs

Palm Springs is a outdoorsy, ritzy, and chic city. It's also known for nightlife, food, and hiking.

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.

Palm Springs and Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • Good for hiking
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Very walkable
Things to Consider
  • 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
  • Less walkable


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

Tourists will generally find more to do in Palm Springs. Although Palm Springs and Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park are both popular with visitors, Palm Springs has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Palm Springs is more popular for its museums, food, nightlife, resorts, and shopping, while Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park is known for its impressive beauty. Palm Springs is more touristy than Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park and is known for its golfing, shopping, and mid-century modern architecture. It is also home to the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway. Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park is popular for its alpine lakes, hydrothermal activity, and unique volcanoes.

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

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

Palm Springs
Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park

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

Palm Springs is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. The Palm Springs Air Museum has an impressive collection of military planes. It's also worth visiting the Palm Springs Art Museum, which has a mix of fine art, natural history, and performing arts. You'll also find botanical gardens and even a zoo around town.

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

Palm Springs
Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park

Palm Springs 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, Palm Springs makes for a great culinary experience. Fresh ingredients and typical California cuisine is common around town. Brunch is a popular option for visitors and you'll find countless brunch cafes in the area. You'll also find Mexican food, pizza, and plenty of vegan and vegetarian options.

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 Palm Springs or Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park Better for Nightlife?

Palm Springs
Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park

Palm Springs is an amazing city to visit for nightlife. However, Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park is not a good park for nightlife and partying.

Palm Springs has a colorful and one-of-a-kind nightlife scene. The area is filled with nightlife options that range from cocktail bars to nightclubs or breweries. You can party into the early morning at the dance clubs or enjoy a bottle of wine with friends at one of the lounges.

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 Palm Springs or Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park Better for Resorts?

Palm Springs
Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park

Palm Springs is an amazing city to visit for its resorts. However, Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park is not a resort destination.

Palm Springs is a world class resort vacation destination. Resorts range from luxurious to more laid back. Most have impressive pools and many have their own spas, restaurants, and entertainment options.

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


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

Palm Springs
Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park

You'll find superb hiking in both Palm Springs and Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park.

Palm Springs is a popular spot for hiking. There are more than 100 trails in the Greater Palm Springs area that take you through scenic desert landscapes and unique ecosystems. Some of the most popular trails include Andreas Canyon Trail and Araby 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 Palm Springs or Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park?

Palm Springs
Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park

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

Palm Springs is an extremely popular place for shoppers. Shopping ranges from outlets to boutique vendors. For the most local options head to Palm Canyon Drive and for an upscale shopping experience, visit the El Paseo shopping district.

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 Palm Springs or Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park Better for Families?

Palm Springs
Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park

Palm Springs 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.

Palm Springs is a very family-friendly place to visit. The year round sunny weather and diversity of outdoor activities make this a great family-friendly destination. There are desert hikes, zoos, and even a dinosaur museum. Kids can also pass their time playing at the pool or enjoying the waterslides.

Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park is a family-friendly city. 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 Palm Springs or Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park Better for Couples?

Palm Springs
Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park

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

Palm Springs is a very popular place to visit for couples. Whether you're on a honeymoon or simply looking to escape the city, there are many romantic options in the area. From cozy inns to resort spa hotels, there are a range of accommodation options. Outdoor dining, hiking, and shopping are also popular.

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

Palm Springs
Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park

Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park is notable for backpackers. However, Palm Springs is a mediocre city 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.

Palm Springs is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. While the city is more famous for its upscale clientele, there's actually a hostel in town for backpackers.

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

Palm Springs
Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park

Palm Springs is a moderate city 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 Palm Springs. There are nine bus routes operated by SunLine Transit Agency, but most visitors prefer to have a car to get around.

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


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

Palm Springs
Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park

Palm Springs is a city with good options for its walkability. However, Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park is not a good park for its high level of walkability.

Palm Springs is somewhat walkable. Parts of the city are very walkable, particularly the touristy areas along Palm Canyon Drive.

Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park is not a very walkable city. 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 Palm Springs Worth Visiting? and Is Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park Worth Visiting?.

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

How long in Palm Springs or Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park?

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

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Palm Springs 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 Palm Springs.


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

One day in Palm Springs or Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park?

In Palm Springs, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this 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.

In Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park, many people enjoy the that this vast park offers. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

A weekend in Palm Springs or Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park?

Palm Springs, a popular city, is full of activities for travelers. In Palm Springs, many people enjoy the museums and nightlife that this chic destination offers. Lots of people come for the nightlife. 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.

Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park is a fun place to experience. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. So, a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.


Five days in Palm Springs or Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the city of Palm Springs. 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 nightlife. 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.

You'll find around the overlooked destination of Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days.

A week in Palm Springs or Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park?

Palm Springs is a popular choice for travelers. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. 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 place to visit. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 2-Week Tours from San Francisco, The Best 2-Week Tours from Los Angeles, The Best Family-Friendly Tours to United States of America, and The Best Wildlife Tours to United States of America.


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

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Palm Springs is $206, 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 Palm Springs and Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Palm Springs $120
    Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park $62
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Palm Springs $240
    Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park $124
Compare Hotels in Palm Springs and Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park

Looking for a hotel in Palm Springs 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 Palm Springs


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: Palm Springs Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Palm Springs $52
    Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park $56

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Palm Springs

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Palm Springs:

  • Palm Springs Airport (PSP) to LA QUINTA/INDIO - Arrival Private Transfer: $64
  • Desert Hot Springs to Palm Springs Airport Departure Transfer: $87
  • Palm Springs Airport (PSP) to Desert Hot Springs Private Transfer: $87
  • Palm Springs Airport (PSP) to LA QUINTA/INDIO - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $129
  • Private Transfer from PSP to Vía La Quinta, Indio, CA : $158
  • Palm Springs Airport (PSP) to LOS ANGELES - Arrival Private Transfer: $171
  • Private Airport Transfer in Palm Springs: $195
  • Desert Hot Springs to Los Angeles Airport Departure Transfer: $251
  • Palm Springs Airport to Snow Summit - Round-Trip Private Transfer: $262

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

Prices for flights to both Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park and Palm Springs 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
    Palm Springs $53
    Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park $30

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Palm Springs $29
    Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park $21

Tours and Activities in Palm Springs

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

  • Journey into Joshua Tree: Audio Tour + Free Locals Guide!: $12
  • Joshua Tree National Park Self-Guided Driving Tour: $12
  • Self-Guided Audio Tour Joshua Tree: $13
  • City and Desert App-Guided Driving Tour: $17
  • Joshua Tree National Park Self-Driving Audio Tour: $17
  • Death Valley National Park Self-Guided Audio Driving Tour: $17
  • Palm Springs Self-Guided Driving Audio Tour: $17
  • Palm Springs and Joshua Tree Self-Guided Driving Tours Bundle: $25
  • Private 1-Hour Archery Experience around Joshua Tree National Park.: $28
  • Self-Driving Windmill Tour: $30
  • Palm Springs Aerial Tramway Admission Ticket: $30
  • Self-Guided Scavenger Hunt Walking Tour: $44

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Palm Springs $13
    Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park $19


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



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

Both Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park and Palm Springs are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Palm Springs for the hiking 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.

Palm Springs is cooler than Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park in the summer. The daily temperature in Palm Springs averages around 73°F (23°C) in July, and Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park fluctuates around 83°F (29°C).

In July, Palm Springs usually receives less rain than Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park. Palm Springs gets 0 inches (1 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
    Palm Springs 73°F (23°C) 
    Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park 83°F (29°C)

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

Both Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park and Palm Springs during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Palm Springs in the autumn for the hiking trails and the shopping scene. 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, Palm Springs is around the same temperature as Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Palm Springs in October average around 69°F (20°C), and Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park averages at about 66°F (19°C).

Palm Springs usually gets less rain in October than Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park. Palm Springs gets 0.3 inches (7 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
    Palm Springs 69°F (20°C) 
    Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park 66°F (19°C)

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

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Palm Springs and Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park. Most visitors come to Palm Springs 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.

In January, Palm Springs is generally much warmer than Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park. Daily temperatures in Palm Springs average around 57°F (14°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. In January, Palm Springs usually receives less rain than Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park. Palm Springs gets 2 inches (52 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
    Palm Springs 57°F (14°C) 
    Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park 47°F (9°C)

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

The spring brings many poeple to Palm Springs as well as Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park. Additionally, the natural beauty are the main draw to Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park this time of year.

Palm Springs is around the same temperature as Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park in the spring. The daily temperature in Palm Springs averages around 62°F (17°C) in April, and Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park fluctuates around 60°F (16°C).

Palm Springs usually gets less rain in April than Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park. Palm Springs gets 0.9 inches (24 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
    Palm Springs 62°F (17°C) 
    Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park 60°F (16°C)

Typical Weather for Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park and Palm Springs

Palm Springs Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 57°F (14°C) 2 inches (52 mm) 47°F (9°C) 4.1 inches (104 mm)
Feb 58°F (15°C) 2.3 inches (58 mm) 52°F (11°C) 3.4 inches (86 mm)
Mar 59°F (15°C) 2.2 inches (57 mm) 55°F (13°C) 3.1 inches (78 mm)
Apr 62°F (17°C) 0.9 inches (24 mm) 60°F (16°C) 1.4 inches (35 mm)
May 65°F (18°C) 0.2 inches (6 mm) 69°F (21°C) 0.8 inches (20 mm)
Jun 69°F (20°C) 0.1 inches (2 mm) 78°F (25°C) 0.4 inches (11 mm)
Jul 73°F (23°C) 0 inches (1 mm) 83°F (29°C) 0.1 inches (2 mm)
Aug 74°F (24°C) 0.2 inches (4 mm) 81°F (27°C) 0.2 inches (6 mm)
Sep 73°F (23°C) 0.4 inches (9 mm) 76°F (25°C) 0.6 inches (16 mm)
Oct 69°F (20°C) 0.3 inches (7 mm) 66°F (19°C) 1.5 inches (37 mm)
Nov 62°F (17°C) 1.5 inches (39 mm) 54°F (12°C) 3.6 inches (91 mm)
Dec 57°F (14°C) 1.7 inches (42 mm) 47°F (9°C) 3.4 inches (88 mm)