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

Should you visit Shenandoah National Park 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 Shenandoah National Park 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.

Shenandoah National Park

Shenandoah National Park is a breathtaking, serene, and beautiful national park. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for skiing, 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.

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

Pros
  • Popular for skiing
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to Skyline Drive
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
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


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

Visitors will usually find more to do in Shenandoah National Park than Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Shenandoah National Park is more touristy than Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park and is popular for its local wildlife, dramatic viewpoints, and world class hiking trails. Also, Shenandoah National Park is famous for Skyline Drive. Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park is well known for its alpine lakes, hydrothermal activity, and unique volcanoes.

How is Shenandoah National Park 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 Shenandoah National Park. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

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

Shenandoah National Park
Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park

Shenandoah National Park is a national park with good options for snow skiing. However, Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park is not a skiing destination.

Shenandoah National Park is a great destination for skiing with plenty areas to explore. You'll find skiing and snowboarding at nearby Massanutten Resort, which is near Harrisonburg, Virginia. It's a family-friendly setting with slopes that are classified as "easiest", "more difficult", and "most difficult".

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


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

Shenandoah National Park
Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park

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

While most people don't head to Shenandoah National Park specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. While most people spend their time outdoors enjoying the setting, there are museums in the area, as well as visitor centers that have exhibits and informative displays.

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

Shenandoah National Park
Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park

Shenandoah National Park is a national park with good options for its local cuisine and restaurants. However, Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park is not a good park for its restaurants.

Shenandoah National Park offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. There are several restaurants along skyline drive where you can pick up a casual meal like fried chicken, burgers, or pasta.

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 Shenandoah National Park or Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park Better for Nightlife?

Shenandoah National Park
Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park

Shenandoah National Park is a moderate national park for nightlife. However, Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park is not a good park for nightlife and partying.

Most people don't head to Shenandoah National Park specifically for the nightlife scene, but you can find a few options. There are a number of breweries in the area, but most people enjoy stargazing and sitting by the campfire at night.

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 Shenandoah National Park or Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park Better for Hiking?

Shenandoah National Park
Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park

Shenandoah 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 Shenandoah National Park visitors will find world-class hiking trails. There are more than 500 miles of trails in the park that pass through varied landscapes and take you to beautiful viewpoints. Visitors range from weekend visitors to long term hikers who come to experience the breathtaking beauty and serene setting.

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 Shenandoah National Park or Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park?

Shenandoah National Park
Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park

If you're looking to go shopping, Shenandoah National Park and Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park both offer plenty of respectable spots.

Shenandoah National Park has some good spots for those that want to go shopping. There are a handful of gift shops along Skyline Drive were you can pick up souvenirs or t-shirts.

Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park is a good destination for shopping. There are stores and gift shops near the visitor centers.

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

Shenandoah National Park
Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park

Shenandoah 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.

Shenandoah National Park is a very family-friendly place to visit. There are tons of kid-friendly hikes to overlooks or waterfalls. Kids will love scrambling over the rocks or running through the forest. There are also plenty of campgrounds where families can hang out, toast marshmallows and enjoy some quality time together.

Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park is a family-friendly national 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 Shenandoah National Park or Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park Better for Couples?

Shenandoah National Park
Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park

Both Shenandoah National Park and Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park are great destinations for a couple's getaway.

Shenandoah National Park is a great national park if you're traveling as a couple. Couples who enjoy nature will love a visit to the park. There are beautiful views and scenic spots that will make for a wonderful and romantic trip. Hiking, biking, and exploring will fill your time with adventure and fun.

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.

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

Shenandoah National Park
Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park

Shenandoah 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.

Shenandoah National Park is a mecca for backpackers and budget travelers. Backpackers love the hiking trails and backcountry camping. Many people head to the park to escape into nature and enjoy some low key time in a serene setting.

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

Shenandoah National Park
Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park

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

Public transit is quite limited in Shenandoah National Park. There's no real public transit in the park.

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


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

Shenandoah National Park
Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park

Neither Shenandoah National Park or Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park are walkable places.

Shenandoah National Park is not a very walkable national park. While there are plenty of hiking trails, a car is a must to reach most trailheads.

Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park is not a walkable national 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 Shenandoah National Park Worth Visiting? and Is Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park Worth Visiting?.

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

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

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Shenandoah National Park and Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Shenandoah National Park than in Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park. Usually, 3-5 days is a good amount of time for Shenandoah National Park, and 2-3 days is enough time in Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park.

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

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

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


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

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

In Shenandoah National Park, many people enjoy the skiing and food that this beautiful destination offers. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

With around the underrated park of Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park, there's plenty to do. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

A weekend in Shenandoah National Park or Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park?

Shenandoah National Park, a popular national park, is full of activities for travelers. In Shenandoah National Park, many people enjoy the food and skiing that this serene 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.

With around the underrated destination of Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park, there's plenty to do. Hikers are also drawn to this area. If you have a weekend, this park makes for a great vacation.A weekend is usually enough time to experience most activities. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.


Five days in Shenandoah National Park or Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park?

In Shenandoah National Park, many people enjoy the skiing and food that this beautiful national park offers. If you have five days, this national park makes for a great vacation. 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 hiking. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then five days is just the right amount of time to spend here.

You'll find around the underrated park of Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park. This park offers a variety of activities to choose from. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Shenandoah National Park or Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park?

Shenandoah National Park 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.

Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park is a great place to explore. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. One week 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 length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.


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


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

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Shenandoah National Park is $125, 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 Shenandoah National Park and Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Shenandoah National Park $53
    Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park $62
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Shenandoah National Park $106
    Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park $124
Compare Hotels in Shenandoah National Park and Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park

Looking for a hotel in Shenandoah National Park 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 Shenandoah National Park


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.


Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Shenandoah National Park $70
    Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park $56

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

Prices for flights to both Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park and Shenandoah 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
    Shenandoah National Park $28
    Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park $30

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

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Shenandoah National Park $7.14
    Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park $19


When comparing the travel costs between Shenandoah National Park and Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park, we can see that Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in North America, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Shenandoah National Park Expensive? and Is Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park Expensive?.



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

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

In the summer, Shenandoah National Park is cooler than Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park. Typically, the summer temperatures in Shenandoah National Park in July average around 77°F (25°C), and Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park averages at about 83°F (29°C).

Shenandoah National Park usually gets more rain in July than Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park. Shenandoah National Park gets 3.4 inches (87 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
    Shenandoah National Park 77°F (25°C) 
    Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park 83°F (29°C)

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

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Shenandoah National Park and Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park. The hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Shenandoah National Park this time of year. Furthermore, 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, Shenandoah National Park is generally cooler than Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park. Daily temperatures in Shenandoah National Park average around 56°F (13°C), and Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park fluctuates around 66°F (19°C).

In October, Shenandoah National Park usually receives more rain than Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park. Shenandoah National Park gets 3.3 inches (84 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
    Shenandoah National Park 56°F (13°C) 
    Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park 66°F (19°C)

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

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

Be prepared for some very cold days in Shenandoah National Park. Shenandoah National Park is much colder than Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park in the winter. The daily temperature in Shenandoah National Park averages around 32°F (-0°C) in January, and Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park fluctuates around 47°F (9°C).

It's quite rainy in Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park. Shenandoah National Park usually gets less rain in January than Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park. Shenandoah National Park gets 2.8 inches (70 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
    Shenandoah National Park 32°F (-0°C) 
    Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park 47°F (9°C)

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

Both Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park and Shenandoah National Park are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Shenandoah National Park 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, Shenandoah National Park is cooler than Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park. Typically, the spring temperatures in Shenandoah National Park in April average around 54°F (12°C), and Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park averages at about 60°F (16°C).

In April, Shenandoah National Park usually receives more rain than Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park. Shenandoah National Park gets 3.1 inches (78 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
    Shenandoah National Park 54°F (12°C) 
    Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park 60°F (16°C)

Typical Weather for Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park and Shenandoah National Park

Shenandoah National Park Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 32°F (-0°C) 2.8 inches (70 mm) 47°F (9°C) 4.1 inches (104 mm)
Feb 35°F (1°C) 2.8 inches (71 mm) 52°F (11°C) 3.4 inches (86 mm)
Mar 44°F (7°C) 3.1 inches (79 mm) 55°F (13°C) 3.1 inches (78 mm)
Apr 54°F (12°C) 3.1 inches (78 mm) 60°F (16°C) 1.4 inches (35 mm)
May 63°F (17°C) 4 inches (102 mm) 69°F (21°C) 0.8 inches (20 mm)
Jun 72°F (22°C) 3.9 inches (100 mm) 78°F (25°C) 0.4 inches (11 mm)
Jul 77°F (25°C) 3.4 inches (87 mm) 83°F (29°C) 0.1 inches (2 mm)
Aug 75°F (24°C) 3.9 inches (99 mm) 81°F (27°C) 0.2 inches (6 mm)
Sep 68°F (20°C) 3.4 inches (87 mm) 76°F (25°C) 0.6 inches (16 mm)
Oct 56°F (13°C) 3.3 inches (84 mm) 66°F (19°C) 1.5 inches (37 mm)
Nov 47°F (8°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm) 54°F (12°C) 3.6 inches (91 mm)
Dec 36°F (2°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm) 47°F (9°C) 3.4 inches (88 mm)