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

Should you visit Marathon 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 Marathon 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.

Marathon

Marathon is a beautiful, relaxing, and quaint island. Marathon is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for nightlife, food, and scuba diving and snorkeling. See Marathon travel costs.

Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park

Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park is a overlooked, underrated, and vast park. Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. Other reasons to visit include hiking. See Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park travel costs.

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

Pros
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • Good scuba and snorkeling destination
  • Popular beach
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Impressive beauty
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Good for hiking
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife


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

Tourists will generally find more to do in Marathon. Although Marathon and Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park are both popular with visitors, Marathon has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Marathon is more popular for its food, nightlife, resorts, scuba diving & snorkeling, and beaches, while Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park is known for its museums and attractions, hiking, and shopping. Marathon is more touristy than Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park and is popular for its Loggerhead sea turtles, the Dolphin Research Center, Sombrero Beach, and its many places to scuba dive and snorkel. It is also home to The Dolphin Research Center. Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park is popular for its alpine lakes, hydrothermal activity, and unique volcanoes.

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

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

Marathon
Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park

Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park is adequate for its historical sights. However, Marathon does not have museums and landmarks.

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.

Marathon does not have museums and landmarks.


Is the Food Better in Marathon or Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Marathon
Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park

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

Marathon offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. There are restaurants with waterfront terraces, raw bars, and other seafood eateries where you can enjoy fresh caught fish for a reasonable price.

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

Marathon
Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park

Marathon is a island 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 Marathon. Popular nightlife venues include JJ’s Dog House & Sports Bar, Brass Monkey, and Cabana Club.

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 Marathon or Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park Better for Resorts?

Marathon
Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park

Marathon is a well-known place for its resorts. However, Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park is not a resort destination.

In Marathon, you'll find some of the region's top resorts. Popular resorts include Isla Bella Beach Resort and Tranquility Bay Resort.

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


Is Marathon or Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park Better for Scuba Diving and Snorkeling?

Marathon
Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park

Marathon is a island with good options for the nearby scuba diving and snorkeling. However, Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

It's fun to get in the water and check out the local marine life in Marathon. There are many dive shops around Marathon and the area has dive spots that are great for every level. Some of the best sites are Sombrero Reef, Coffins Patch, and Thunderbolt wreck. There are also many snorkeling trips that head out to Sombrero Reef.

Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park is not a scuba or snorkeling destination.

Is Marathon or Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park Better for Beaches?

Marathon
Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park

Marathon is a well-known place for its beaches. However, Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park is not a beach destination.

The beaches at Marathon attract visitors from all over. Sombrero Beach is a popular spot for picnics, swimming and seeing the Loggerhead Turtles from April through October.

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

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

Marathon
Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park

Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park is great for hiking. However, Marathon 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.

Marathon is not a hiking destination.


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

Marathon
Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park

Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park is adequate for shopping. However, Marathon is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

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

Marathon is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Marathon or Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park More Beautiful?

Marathon
Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park

Marathon and Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park both are comparable with their high quality scenery and beauty.

Marathon is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. The waters are blue and the setting is peaceful, making this area truly beautiful.

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.

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

Marathon
Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park

Marathon 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.

Marathon is a very family-friendly place to visit. Kids will enjoy getting face-to-face with dolphins at the Dolphin Research Center. Families can also explore Pigeon Key or play in the water at Sombrero Beach. Families will find no shortage of activities on the island.

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

Marathon
Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park

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

Marathon is a great island if you're traveling as a couple. With beautiful views, 7 Mile Bridge, and plenty of activities, this area makes a romantic destination for couples. There are beaches and waterfront spots that offer a romantic setting 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.

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

Marathon
Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park

Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park is great for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Marathon is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park is very popular with the backpacker crowd. There is a large backcountry area which offers a unique hiking and camping experience. You'll need to purchase permits before your trip.

Marathon is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

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

Marathon
Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park

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

Public transit is quite limited in Marathon. There's no real public transportation in town. A car is essential.

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


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

Marathon
Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park

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

Marathon is generally not very walkable. Shops and restaurants and spread out along a central road, making walking difficult to impossible.

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

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

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

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Marathon and Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Marathon than in Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Marathon, and 2-3 days is enough time in Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park than Marathon if your budget allows for it. With a larger number of budget-friendly sights, good nightlife, and active things to do, anyone traveling on a budget would have a good time in Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park.


  • How many days in Marathon or Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park? Ideal Length of Stay
    Marathon 3-7 
    Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park 2-3

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

In Marathon, many people enjoy the food and scuba diving and snorkeling that this beautiful 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.

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 Marathon or Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park?

Marathon, a popular island, is full of activities for travelers. In Marathon, many people enjoy the scuba diving and snorkeling and nightlife that this relaxing destination offers. People usually spend lots of time at the beach. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

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 Marathon or Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park?

In Marathon, many people enjoy the nightlife and food that this beautiful island offers. If you have five days, this island makes for a great vacation. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then five days is just the right amount of time to spend here.

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 Marathon or Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park?

Marathon is a popular choice for travelers. One week here is typical. People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. Anyone can find something fun to do here. In one week, you should have a good grasp of this island.

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 Tours for Seniors to United States of America, The Best Contiki Tours to United States of America, The Best G Adventures Tours to United States of America, and The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Las Vegas.


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

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

  • Marathon Prices
    USA Prices
    Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Marathon $195
    Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park $148

The average daily cost (per person) in Marathon is $195, 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 Marathon and Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Marathon $76
    Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park $62
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Marathon $152
    Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park $124
Compare Hotels in Marathon and Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park

Looking for a hotel in Marathon 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 Marathon


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: Marathon Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Marathon $47
    Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park $56

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

Prices for flights to both Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park and Marathon 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
    Marathon $89
    Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park $52

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Marathon $27
    Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park $21

Tours and Activities in Marathon

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

  • Rhum Runner Aqua Park Adventure: $38
  • Florida: Sunset Champagne Cruise on the Marathon Mermaid: $82
  • Snorkeling Adventure by Boat at Sombrero Reef: $89
  • Intro to Foilboarding Experience: $214

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Marathon $24
    Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park $19


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



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

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

Marathon is around the same temperature as Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park in the summer. The daily temperature in Marathon averages around 84°F (29°C) in July, and Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park fluctuates around 83°F (29°C).

In Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Marathon. In the summer, Marathon often gets less sunshine than Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park. Marathon gets 328 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park receives 436 hours of full sun.

Marathon usually gets more rain in July than Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park. Marathon gets 3.3 inches (83 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
    Marathon 84°F (29°C) 
    Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park 83°F (29°C)

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

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Marathon and Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park. Many travelers come to Marathon for the natural beauty of the area. Furthermore, 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 the autumn, Marathon is a little warmer than Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Marathon in October average around 80°F (27°C), and Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park averages at about 66°F (19°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park this time of the year. In Marathon, it's very sunny this time of the year. Marathon usually receives less sunshine than Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park during autumn. Marathon gets 258 hours of sunny skies, while Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park receives 284 hours of full sun in the autumn.

Marathon gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In October, Marathon usually receives more rain than Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park. Marathon gets 5.1 inches (129 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
    Marathon 80°F (27°C) 
    Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park 66°F (19°C)

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

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

In January, Marathon is generally much warmer than Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park. Daily temperatures in Marathon average around 70°F (21°C), and Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park fluctuates around 47°F (9°C).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Marathon this time of the year. In the winter, Marathon often gets more sunshine than Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park. Marathon gets 252 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. Marathon usually gets less rain in January than Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park. Marathon gets 1.7 inches (43 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
    Marathon 70°F (21°C) 
    Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park 47°F (9°C)

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

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

Marathon is much warmer than Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park in the spring. The daily temperature in Marathon averages around 77°F (25°C) in April, and Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park fluctuates around 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 Marathon. Marathon usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park during spring. Marathon gets 326 hours of sunny skies, while Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park receives 329 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Marathon usually receives less rain than Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park. Marathon gets 0.8 inches (21 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
    Marathon 77°F (25°C) 
    Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park 60°F (16°C)

Typical Weather for Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park and Marathon

Marathon Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 70°F (21°C) 1.7 inches (43 mm) 47°F (9°C) 4.1 inches (104 mm)
Feb 71°F (21°C) 1.4 inches (36 mm) 52°F (11°C) 3.4 inches (86 mm)
Mar 74°F (23°C) 1.7 inches (42 mm) 55°F (13°C) 3.1 inches (78 mm)
Apr 77°F (25°C) 0.8 inches (21 mm) 60°F (16°C) 1.4 inches (35 mm)
May 81°F (27°C) 2.7 inches (68 mm) 69°F (21°C) 0.8 inches (20 mm)
Jun 83°F (28°C) 4.5 inches (114 mm) 78°F (25°C) 0.4 inches (11 mm)
Jul 84°F (29°C) 3.3 inches (83 mm) 83°F (29°C) 0.1 inches (2 mm)
Aug 84°F (29°C) 3.9 inches (98 mm) 81°F (27°C) 0.2 inches (6 mm)
Sep 83°F (29°C) 5.7 inches (144 mm) 76°F (25°C) 0.6 inches (16 mm)
Oct 80°F (27°C) 5.1 inches (129 mm) 66°F (19°C) 1.5 inches (37 mm)
Nov 76°F (24°C) 2 inches (50 mm) 54°F (12°C) 3.6 inches (91 mm)
Dec 72°F (22°C) 1.4 inches (35 mm) 47°F (9°C) 3.4 inches (88 mm)