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

Should you visit Columbia or Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

Should I visit Columbia or Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Columbia

Columbia is a suburban, friendly, and welcoming city. It's also known for nightlife, shopping, and museums. See Columbia travel costs.

Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park

Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park is a underrated, vast, and overlooked park. The beauty of Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. And you can't forget about the hiking. See Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park travel costs.

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

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for students
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with couples
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Good for hiking
  • Known for its beauty
  • 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 nightlife


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

Travelers will usually find more to do in Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park. Although Columbia and Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park are popular destinations, Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park has more sights and attractions for tourists. Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park is very popular for its hiking and impressive beauty, while Columbia attracts visitors for its museums and attractions, nightlife, and shopping. Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park is more touristy than Columbia and is known for its alpine lakes, hydrothermal activity, and unique volcanoes. It is also well known for Lassen Peak. Columbia is famous for its southern hospitality and friendly people.

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

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

Columbia
Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park

Columbia 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.

Columbia is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. As the state capital, there are some decent museums around town like the Columbia Museum of Art, the South Carolina Military Museum, the South Carolina State Museum, and the U.S. Army Basic Combat Training Museum.

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

Columbia
Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park

There are opportunities to sample the local cuisine at reasonable restaurants in both Columbia and Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park.

You'll find the standard options when it comes to food in Columbia. Barbecue and other southern favorites are among the more local dishes, but the city is also filled with fast food joints and other major chain restaurants.

Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park may not make the list for most foodies, but you'll find what you need while you're in town. 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 Columbia or Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park Better for Nightlife?

Columbia
Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park

Columbia is a city with good options for nightlife. However, Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park is not a good park for nightlife and partying.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Columbia. You'll find live music venues as well as low key bars and more trendy cocktail 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 Columbia or Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park Better for Hiking?

Columbia
Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park

Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park is a well-known place for the nearby hiking options. However, Columbia is not a hiking destination.

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.

Columbia is not a hiking destination.


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

Columbia
Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park

Columbia is a city with good options for shopping. However, Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park is not a good park for its shopping opportunities.

Columbia is a great destination for shopping. You'll find independent and locally owned shops along Devine Street and in the Five Points area. Also interesting are the Vista, which is a warehouse district, and Trenholm Plaza.

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 Columbia or Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park More Beautiful?

Columbia
Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park

Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park is a well-known place for its scenery and beauty. However, Columbia is not a destination known for its beauty.

The beauty of Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Beautiful lakes and mountains, without the large crowds of the more well-known parks, make this a great natural destination.

Columbia is not a destination known for its beauty.

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

Columbia
Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Columbia or Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park.

Columbia is a family-friendly place to visit. Around town you'll find parks, playgrounds, and kid-friendly restaurants. There's a zoo in the area as well as a nice state park - Sesquicentennial State Park. There's also EdVenture Children's Museum, which is filled with hands-on exhibits.

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 Columbia or Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park Better for Couples?

Columbia
Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park

Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park is a well-known place for its romantic activities. However, Columbia is not a good city for couples.

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.

Columbia is not always the best place to visit for a couple. You'll find parks to explore and some nice restaurants that make for a good date night.

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

Columbia
Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park

Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park is a well-known place for backpackers. However, Columbia is not a good city for backpackers and budget travelers.

Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park is a great park to visit for backpackers. There is a large backcountry area which offers a unique hiking and camping experience. You'll need to purchase permits before your trip.

Columbia is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. While it's not an expensive place to visit, there is little in the area to attract backpackers.

Is Columbia or Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park Better for Students?

Columbia
Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park

Columbia is a city with good options for students. However, Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park is not popular with students.

Columbia is a good city to visit for students. The University of South Carolina, and other nearby colleges all bring in a decent student population.

Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park is not popular with students.


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

Columbia
Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park

Columbia 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 Columbia. The COMET is the bus system through town, but you really must have your own car to enjoy the city.

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

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

Columbia
Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park

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

Columbia is not a walkable city. It's filled with suburban-style development and is generally very car dependent.

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 Columbia Worth Visiting? and Is Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park Worth Visiting?.

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

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

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

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

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


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

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

In Columbia, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this destination offers. One day should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

The beautiful park of Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park offers . Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.


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

Columbia, a popular city, is full of activities for travelers. In Columbia, many people enjoy the museums and nightlife that this suburban destination offers. 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 popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this park makes for a great vacation. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

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

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and shopping when visiting the city of Columbia. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. 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.

Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park is a popular choice for travelers. 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 entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

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

Columbia is a popular choice for travelers. 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. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This park offers something for everyone.


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, Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park or Columbia?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations. These travel costs come from the actual spending of real travelers.

  • Columbia Prices
    USA Prices
    Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Columbia $0.00
    Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park $148

The average daily cost (per person) in Columbia is $0.00, while the average daily cost in Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park is $148. 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 Columbia and Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Columbia -
    Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park $62
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Columbia $0.00
    Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park $124
Compare Hotels in Columbia and Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park

Looking for a hotel in Columbia 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 Columbia


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: Columbia Hotel Prices.

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

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

Prices for flights to both Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park and Columbia 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
    Columbia $8.70
    Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park $52

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Columbia -
    Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park $21

Tours and Activities in Columbia

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

  • Lanterns and Lunacy of the Lost: Cruel Columbia Ghost Tours: $24

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Columbia $88
    Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park $19


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Columbia and Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park, we can see that Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park is more expensive. And not only is Columbia much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Columbia would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Columbia 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 Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park than you might in Columbia.

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



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

Both Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park and Columbia are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Columbia in the summer for the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In July, Columbia is generally around the same temperature as Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park. Daily temperatures in Columbia average around 82°F (28°C), and Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park fluctuates around 83°F (29°C).

It's quite sunny in Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Columbia. Columbia usually receives less sunshine than Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park during summer. Columbia gets 293 hours of sunny skies, while Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park receives 436 hours of full sun in the summer.

It's quite rainy in Columbia. In July, Columbia usually receives more rain than Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park. Columbia gets 4.6 inches (116 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
    Columbia 82°F (28°C) 
    Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park 83°F (29°C)

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

Both Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park and Columbia during the autumn are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Columbia for the shopping scene during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park because of the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

Columbia is around the same temperature as Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park in the autumn. The daily temperature in Columbia averages around 64°F (18°C) in October, and Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park fluctuates around 66°F (19°C).

In Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Columbia. In the autumn, Columbia often gets less sunshine than Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park. Columbia gets 230 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park receives 284 hours of full sun.

Columbia usually gets more rain in October than Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park. Columbia gets 3 inches (75 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
    Columbia 64°F (18°C) 
    Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park 66°F (19°C)

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

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Columbia and Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park. The winter months attract visitors to Columbia because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park this time of year.

In the winter, Columbia is cooler than Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park. Typically, the winter temperatures in Columbia in January average around 45°F (7°C), and Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park averages at about 47°F (9°C).

Columbia usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park during winter. Columbia gets 171 hours of sunny skies, while Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park receives 162 hours of full sun in the winter.

Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park receives a lot of rain in the winter. In January, Columbia usually receives less rain than Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park. Columbia gets 3.7 inches (93 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
    Columbia 45°F (7°C) 
    Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park 47°F (9°C)

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

The spring brings many poeple to Columbia as well as Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park. Also, many travelers come to Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park for the natural beauty.

In April, Columbia is generally a little warmer than Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park. Daily temperatures in Columbia average around 64°F (18°C), and Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park fluctuates around 60°F (16°C).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Columbia this time of the year. In the spring, Columbia often gets less sunshine than Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park. Columbia gets 273 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park receives 329 hours of full sun.

Columbia usually gets more rain in April than Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park. Columbia gets 2.8 inches (72 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
    Columbia 64°F (18°C) 
    Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park 60°F (16°C)

Typical Weather for Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park and Columbia

Columbia Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 45°F (7°C) 3.7 inches (93 mm) 47°F (9°C) 4.1 inches (104 mm)
Feb 48°F (9°C) 3.5 inches (88 mm) 52°F (11°C) 3.4 inches (86 mm)
Mar 56°F (13°C) 3.7 inches (95 mm) 55°F (13°C) 3.1 inches (78 mm)
Apr 64°F (18°C) 2.8 inches (72 mm) 60°F (16°C) 1.4 inches (35 mm)
May 72°F (22°C) 3 inches (77 mm) 69°F (21°C) 0.8 inches (20 mm)
Jun 78°F (26°C) 3.5 inches (89 mm) 78°F (25°C) 0.4 inches (11 mm)
Jul 82°F (28°C) 4.6 inches (116 mm) 83°F (29°C) 0.1 inches (2 mm)
Aug 81°F (27°C) 5.8 inches (147 mm) 81°F (27°C) 0.2 inches (6 mm)
Sep 75°F (24°C) 3.3 inches (84 mm) 76°F (25°C) 0.6 inches (16 mm)
Oct 64°F (18°C) 3 inches (75 mm) 66°F (19°C) 1.5 inches (37 mm)
Nov 56°F (13°C) 2.1 inches (54 mm) 54°F (12°C) 3.6 inches (91 mm)
Dec 48°F (9°C) 2.6 inches (67 mm) 47°F (9°C) 3.4 inches (88 mm)


Related Articles for Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park