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

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

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Lancaster or Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

Lancaster

Lancaster is a scenic, traditional, and picturesque town. Lancaster is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for food, shopping, and museums. See Lancaster travel costs.

Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park

Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park is a vast, overlooked, and underrated park. With stunning beauty, Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park attracts visitors from all around. It's also popular because of the hiking. See Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park travel costs.

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

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Impressive beauty
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 shopping


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

Visitors will usually find more to do in Lancaster than Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Lancaster is better known for its museums and attractions, food, nightlife, and shopping, while Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park is more popular for its hiking. Lancaster is more touristy than Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park and is popular for its history and long running Amish community. Also, Lancaster is famous for Bird-in-Hand Village. Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park is well known for its alpine lakes, hydrothermal activity, and unique volcanoes.

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

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

Lancaster
Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park

Lancaster is a well-known place for its sights and museums. However, Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park is not a good park for its museums and history.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Lancaster. Filled with history and local culture, there are many educational opportunities in the area where you can learn about Amish traditions. The Amish Village has tours and unique experiences. The town also has James Buchanan's Wheatland, the Railroad Museum of Pennsylvania, the National Toy Train Museum, the Ephrata Cloister, and the National Watch & Clock Museum, among many others.

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

Lancaster
Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park

Lancaster 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, Lancaster makes for a great culinary experience. You can sample authentic Pennsylvania Dutch dishes at one of the Amish restaurants in the area. Many places serve food family-style and dishes include chicken pot pie, ham balls, and pork and sauerkraut. Whoopie pies also originated in the area.

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

Lancaster
Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park

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

Most people don't head to Lancaster specifically for the nightlife scene, but you can find a few options. It's a small town, but you'll still find local pubs and cozy bars where you can enjoy a drink in a laid back atmosphere.

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

Lancaster
Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park

Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park is a great park for hiking. However, Lancaster is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors go to Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park for the hiking trails. 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.

Lancaster is not a hiking destination.


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

Lancaster
Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park

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

Lancaster is an extremely popular place for shoppers. Many visitors pick up hand-crafted Amish items while they're in town. Furniture and Amish quilts are particularly popular. Farmers markets and antique shopping are both unique in the area and there are also art galleries and several outlet stores that you can visit.

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 Lancaster or Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park More Beautiful?

Lancaster
Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park

You'll find a similar quality of high quality scenery and beauty in both Lancaster and Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park.

With stunning beauty, Lancaster attracts visitors from all around. The countryside is beautiful, with preserved farmland, covered bridges, and beautiful gardens.

Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Beautiful lakes and mountains, without the large crowds of the more well-known parks, make this a great natural destination.

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

Lancaster
Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park

Lancaster 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.

Lancaster is a very family-friendly place to visit. In you area you'll find farms and petting zoos, amusement parks, and train rides. They can learn about a unique lifestyle at the Amish Experience or soak up the local beauty and farmland in the surrounding countryside.

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

Lancaster
Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park

Lancaster and Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park are both high quality to visit as a couple.

Lancaster is a great town if you're traveling as a couple. This region is known for it's local beauty and serene farmland, making it a relaxing and peaceful destination for couples. There are walking trails, outdoor activities, buggy rides, and a variety of dining experiences. You can also stay at a bed and breakfast or local inn.

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

Lancaster
Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park

Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park is a great park for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Lancaster 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.

Lancaster is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. Although it's often overlooked by backpackers, the region offers a unique cultural experience.

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

Lancaster
Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park

Lancaster is a moderate town 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 Lancaster. The city has buses and several transportation options, but once you're outside of the urban core, your options are limited.

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


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

Lancaster
Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park

Lancaster is a moderate town for its walkability. However, Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park is not a good park for its high level of walkability.

Lancaster is generally not very walkable. While the city itself has walkable areas, most visitors want to get out and explore the countryside, which requires a car.

Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park is not a very walkable town. 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 Lancaster Worth Visiting? and Is Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park Worth Visiting?.

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

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

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Lancaster and Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park. In our opinion, Lancaster has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Lancaster than Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park. However, 2-3 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Lancaster 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 Lancaster.


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

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

In Lancaster, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this beautiful destination offers. 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.

You'll find around the park of Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

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

Lancaster, a popular town, is full of activities for travelers. In Lancaster, many people enjoy the museums and food that this scenic destination offers. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

You'll find around the overlooked destination of Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park. Hikers are also drawn to this area. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this park has to offer. This park offers a variety of activities to choose from.


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

Travelers enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the beautiful town of Lancaster. 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.

Travelers enjoy the when visiting the overlooked park of Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. 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 Lancaster or Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park?

Lancaster 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 popular choice for travelers. 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. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.


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


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

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

  • Lancaster Prices
    USA Prices
    Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Lancaster $221
    Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park $148

The average daily cost (per person) in Lancaster is $221, 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 Lancaster and Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Lancaster $91
    Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park $62
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Lancaster $182
    Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park $124
Compare Hotels in Lancaster and Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park

Looking for a hotel in Lancaster 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 Lancaster


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: Lancaster Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Lancaster $69
    Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park $56

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

Prices for flights to both Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park and Lancaster 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
    Lancaster $91
    Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park $52

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Lancaster

For Lancaster, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • International Food Tour Lancaster, PA: $62
  • Red Rose Walking Food Tour in Lancaster: $69
  • 3 Hour Retro Music Variety Show Dinner Theater: $75
  • Outdoor Cooking Class Activity with Customizable Recipes: $80

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Lancaster $19
    Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park $21

Tours and Activities in Lancaster

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

  • Guided Tour of the Lititz 1792 Johannes Mueller House: $10
  • 45-Minute Private Guided Historic Walking Tour in Lititz: $12
  • Guided Ghost Tour of Lititz: $12
  • Passport to Spain - Interactive Culinary Experience: $23
  • Ghost Tour of Lancaster: $25
  • Lititz Whiskey and History Tour : $25
  • Amish Farmlands Tour: $27
  • Amish Experience SuperSaver Package: $35
  • Lancaster Puzzling Adventure: $35
  • Premium Amish Country Tour including Amish Farm and House: $38
  • Amish Experience Visit-In-Person Tour: $56
  • Lancaster History and Breakfast Walking Tour: $60

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Lancaster $11
    Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park $19

Sample the Local Flavors in Lancaster

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

  • Guided Brewery Walking Tour in Lancaster City: $79


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



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

Both Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park and Lancaster during the summer are popular places to visit. The family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Lancaster this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Lancaster is cooler than Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park. Typically, the summer temperatures in Lancaster in July average around 77°F (25°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 Lancaster. In the summer, Lancaster often gets less sunshine than Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park. Lancaster gets 310 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park receives 436 hours of full sun.

Lancaster usually gets more rain in July than Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park. Lancaster gets 3.6 inches (91 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
    Lancaster 77°F (25°C) 
    Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park 83°F (29°C)

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

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Lancaster and Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park. Many travelers come to Lancaster for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area. Also, many visitors come to Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park in the autumn for the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Lancaster is generally cooler than Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park. Daily temperatures in Lancaster average around 56°F (13°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. Lancaster usually receives less sunshine than Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park during autumn. Lancaster gets 194 hours of sunny skies, while Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park receives 284 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Lancaster usually receives more rain than Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park. Lancaster gets 2.9 inches (75 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
    Lancaster 56°F (13°C) 
    Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park 66°F (19°C)

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

The winter brings many poeple to Lancaster as well as Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park. Many visitors come to Lancaster in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months.

Lancaster can get quite cold in the winter. Lancaster is much colder than Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park in the winter. The daily temperature in Lancaster averages around 30°F (-1°C) in January, and Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park fluctuates around 47°F (9°C).

In the winter, Lancaster often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park. Lancaster gets 153 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. Lancaster usually gets less rain in January than Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park. Lancaster gets 2.8 inches (72 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
    Lancaster 30°F (-1°C) 
    Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park 47°F (9°C)

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

Both Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park and Lancaster are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Lancaster for the natural beauty during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park because of the natural beauty.

In the spring, Lancaster is cooler than Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park. Typically, the spring temperatures in Lancaster in April average around 53°F (12°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 Lancaster. Lancaster usually receives less sunshine than Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park during spring. Lancaster gets 237 hours of sunny skies, while Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park receives 329 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Lancaster usually receives more rain than Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park. Lancaster gets 3.2 inches (82 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
    Lancaster 53°F (12°C) 
    Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park 60°F (16°C)

Typical Weather for Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park and Lancaster

Lancaster Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 30°F (-1°C) 2.8 inches (72 mm) 47°F (9°C) 4.1 inches (104 mm)
Feb 33°F (0°C) 2.9 inches (75 mm) 52°F (11°C) 3.4 inches (86 mm)
Mar 42°F (6°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm) 55°F (13°C) 3.1 inches (78 mm)
Apr 53°F (12°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm) 60°F (16°C) 1.4 inches (35 mm)
May 63°F (17°C) 4.3 inches (108 mm) 69°F (21°C) 0.8 inches (20 mm)
Jun 72°F (22°C) 3.9 inches (98 mm) 78°F (25°C) 0.4 inches (11 mm)
Jul 77°F (25°C) 3.6 inches (91 mm) 83°F (29°C) 0.1 inches (2 mm)
Aug 75°F (24°C) 3.3 inches (84 mm) 81°F (27°C) 0.2 inches (6 mm)
Sep 68°F (20°C) 3.5 inches (89 mm) 76°F (25°C) 0.6 inches (16 mm)
Oct 56°F (13°C) 2.9 inches (75 mm) 66°F (19°C) 1.5 inches (37 mm)
Nov 46°F (8°C) 3.5 inches (90 mm) 54°F (12°C) 3.6 inches (91 mm)
Dec 35°F (2°C) 3.2 inches (82 mm) 47°F (9°C) 3.4 inches (88 mm)


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