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

Should you visit Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park or Denali 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 Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park and Denali 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.

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. Visitors also love the hiking. See Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park travel costs.

Denali National Park

Denali National Park is a vast, rugged, and spectacular park. You'll find world class beauty in Denali National Park as well. It's also known for hiking. See Denali National Park travel costs.

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

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
Pros
  • Nice resorts
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to Denali (Mount McKinley)
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights


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

Travelers will usually find more to do in Denali National Park. Although Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park and Denali National Park are popular destinations, Denali National Park has more sights and attractions for tourists. Denali National Park is very popular for its resorts and impressive beauty, while Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park attracts visitors for its hiking. Denali National Park is more touristy than Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park and is popular for its vast wilderness and iconic Alaskan wildlife. It is also well known for Denali (Mount McKinley). Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park is famous for its alpine lakes, hydrothermal activity, and unique volcanoes.

How is Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park different from Denali National Park?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Denali National Park and Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

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

Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park
Denali National Park

Both Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park and Denali National Park have reasonable landmarks and museums for visitors.

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.

While most people don't head to Denali National Park specifically for the museums and attractions, it does offer a few options. Denali's Museum Collection includes more than 25,000 different items that reflect the region's history, culture, and geology.


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

Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park
Denali National Park

Picking the best cuisine and restaurants between Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park and Denali National Park can be difficult as they are each reasonable in their own way.

Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park offers some easy restaurants to choose from. 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.

You'll find the standard options when it comes to food in Denali National Park. During the summer months there are restaurants open along Highway 3 as well as the Morino Grill near the Denali Visitor Center.

Is Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park or Denali National Park Better for Nightlife?

Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park
Denali National Park

Neither Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park or Denali National Park offer decent nightlife.

People don't go to Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park for the nightlife. Stargazing and campfire chats are the best ways to enjoy evening in the park.

Denali National Park doesn't offer many options. Visitors come to the park to see the nature, not for the nightlife.

Is Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park or Denali National Park Better for Resorts?

Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park
Denali National Park

Denali National Park is a park with good options for its resorts. However, Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park is not a resort destination.

Denali National Park has a handful of resorts to choose from. Most visitors stay nearby the Denali Park Entrance. It has the most affordable hotels and lodges, some of which have a lot of personality. Alternatively, you could stay in the more remote area of Kantishna. These lodges are more expensive and all-inclusive, but they are also far away from most conveniences.

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


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

Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park
Denali National Park

Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park is a great park for hiking. Also, Denali National Park is not as popular, but is still a nice park for the nearby hiking options.

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.

Denali National Park has hiking trails worth exploring. If you're looking for a marked trail, there are limited options within the park. Those that do exist are located near the park entrance and are usually just a couple of miles long. Off-trail hiking is what makes for the most memorable experience. Make sure you stop off at the visitor center for information and knowledge before you venture into the wilderness without a trail. For obvious reasons, you should fully understand what this entails before beginning your adventure.

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

Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park
Denali National Park

Both Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park and Denali National Park are reasonable shopping destinations.

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

If you're looking to go shopping, Denali National Park has some nice offerings. There are several park stores and shops in and near the park where you can pick up gifts, books, and souvenirs.

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

Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park
Denali National Park

Denali National Park is an amazing park to visit for its scenery and beauty. Also, Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park is not as famous, but is still a good park to visit for its scenery and beauty.

You'll find world class beauty in Denali National Park as well. Home to the highest peak in North America, the park is famous for its dramatic beauty and rugged landscapes.

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 Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park or Denali National Park Better for Families?

Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park
Denali National Park

Both Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park and Denali National Park are nice to visit with kids.

Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park is a family-friendly place to visit. 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.

Denali National Park is a family-friendly park. Most people visit the park as part of a tour, so it's important to book a tour that is designed with families in mind. This will help ensure the kids stay entertained even during long bus rides.

Is Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park or Denali National Park Better for Couples?

Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park
Denali National Park

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

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.

Denali National Park makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Couples who enjoy outdoor adventures and stunning scenery will find the ultimate romance in this impressive park.

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

Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park
Denali National Park

Denali National Park is an amazing 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.

Denali National Park is a mecca for backpackers and budget travelers. There are millions of acres in the park as well as campgrounds, hostels, and vast backcountry (which requires a permit).

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

Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park
Denali National Park

Denali National Park is a moderate park 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 Denali National Park. There are free shuttle buses that leave from the entrance area, but many visitors organize a tour to get around.

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

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

Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park
Denali National Park

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

Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park is not a walkable park. The park is large, so to efficiently access the different hiking trails you'll need to have a car.

Denali National Park is not a very walkable park. The park is vast and you need some form of transportation to get around, whether it's a private vehicle or a pre-arranged tour.

For even more information, also check out Is Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park Worth Visiting? and Is Denali National Park Worth Visiting?.

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

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

It's fun to spend time in either Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park or Denali National Park. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Denali National Park due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 2-3 days is a good amount of time for Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park, and 2-4 days is enough time in Denali National Park.

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

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

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


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

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

Many travelers enjoy the when visiting the beautiful destination of Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

In Denali National Park, many people enjoy the 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.


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

Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park is a fun place to experience. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. 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.

Denali National Park, a popular park, is full of activities for travelers. In Denali National Park, many people enjoy the that this spectacular destination offers. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

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

Many people visit Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park for five days. You'll find around the beautiful park of Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

Travelers enjoy the when visiting the beautiful park of Denali National Park. 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.

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

The overlooked destination of Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park offers . Hikers are also drawn to this area. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Denali National Park 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.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Walking Tours in United States of America, The Best Northern Lights Tours in Alaska, The Best Tours Under $1000 in United States of America, and The Best Luxury Tours to United States of America.


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

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

  • Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park Prices
    USA Prices
    Denali National Park Prices
    USA Prices
  • Average Daily Cost Per person, per day
    Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park $148
    Denali National Park $260

The average daily cost (per person) in Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park is $148, while the average daily cost in Denali National Park is $260. 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 Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park and Denali National Park in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park $62
    Denali National Park $116
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park $124
    Denali National Park $232
Compare Hotels in Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park and Denali National Park

Looking for a hotel in Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park or Denali 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 Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park


Hotels in Denali 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.
    Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park $56
    Denali National Park $76

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

Prices for flights to both Denali National Park and Mt. Lassen Volcanic 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
    Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park $52
    Denali National Park $98

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park $21
    Denali National Park $30

Tours and Activities in Denali National Park

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Denali National Park.

  • Denali Husky Kennel & Brewpub Visit – Half-Day Experience: $130
  • Denali Naturalist Walking Tour: $132
  • 2.5-Hour Denali Wilderness ATV Adventure Tour: $135
  • Midnight Sun ATV Adventure 2.5 Hour Tour: $135
  • 3 Hour Naturalist Walking Tour in Denali National Park: $139
  • Wilds of Alaska Classic ATV Adventure: $153
  • Winter Side by Side ATV Tour: $160
  • Denali 4 Hour Hiking Adventure with Naturalist Guide: $160
  • Classic ATV Adventure with Back Country Dining: $163
  • Alaskan Back Country Side by Side ATV Adventure with Meal: $163
  • Denali ATV Trailblazer 3.5 Hour Tour : $178
  • Denali 5 Hour Hiking Tour with Naturalist Guide: $182

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park $19
    Denali National Park $12


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



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

The summer brings many poeple to Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park as well as Denali National Park. Many visitors come to Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park in the summer for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences. Additionally, most visitors come to Denali National Park for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In the summer, Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park is much warmer than Denali National Park. Typically, the summer temperatures in Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park in July average around 83°F (29°C), and Denali National Park averages at about 60°F (15°C).

Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park usually gets less rain in July than Denali National Park. Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park gets 0.1 inches (2 mm) of rain, while Denali National Park receives 3.6 inches (92 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park 83°F (29°C) 
    Denali National Park 60°F (15°C)

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

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

The weather in Denali National Park can be very cold. In October, Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park is generally much warmer than Denali National Park. Daily temperatures in Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park average around 66°F (19°C), and Denali National Park fluctuates around 32°F (0°C).

In October, Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park usually receives less rain than Denali National Park. Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park gets 1.5 inches (37 mm) of rain, while Denali National Park receives 3.1 inches (79 mm) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park 66°F (19°C) 
    Denali National Park 32°F (0°C)

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

Both Denali National Park and Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park during the winter are popular places to visit. The winter months attract visitors to Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Denali National Park this time of year.

It's quite cold in Denali National Park in the winter. Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park is much warmer than Denali National Park in the winter. The daily temperature in Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park averages around 47°F (9°C) in January, and Denali National Park fluctuates around 11°F (-12°C).

It rains a lot this time of the year in Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park. Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park usually gets more rain in January than Denali National Park. Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park gets 4.1 inches (104 mm) of rain, while Denali National Park receives 1.3 inches (33 mm) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park 47°F (9°C) 
    Denali National Park 11°F (-12°C)

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

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park and Denali National Park. The natural beauty are the main draw to Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Denali National Park for the natural beauty.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Denali National Park. In the spring, Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park is much warmer than Denali National Park. Typically, the spring temperatures in Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park in April average around 60°F (16°C), and Denali National Park averages at about 34°F (1°C).

In April, Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park usually receives less rain than Denali National Park. Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park gets 1.4 inches (35 mm) of rain, while Denali National Park receives 1.6 inches (41 mm) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park 60°F (16°C) 
    Denali National Park 34°F (1°C)

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

Mt. Lassen Volcanic National Park Denali National Park
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 47°F (9°C) 4.1 inches (104 mm) 11°F (-12°C) 1.3 inches (33 mm)
Feb 52°F (11°C) 3.4 inches (86 mm) 16°F (-9°C) 1.4 inches (37 mm)
Mar 55°F (13°C) 3.1 inches (78 mm) 23°F (-5°C) 1.5 inches (37 mm)
Apr 60°F (16°C) 1.4 inches (35 mm) 34°F (1°C) 1.6 inches (41 mm)
May 69°F (21°C) 0.8 inches (20 mm) 46°F (8°C) 1.7 inches (42 mm)
Jun 78°F (25°C) 0.4 inches (11 mm) 56°F (13°C) 2.6 inches (67 mm)
Jul 83°F (29°C) 0.1 inches (2 mm) 60°F (15°C) 3.6 inches (92 mm)
Aug 81°F (27°C) 0.2 inches (6 mm) 56°F (14°C) 4.5 inches (115 mm)
Sep 76°F (25°C) 0.6 inches (16 mm) 47°F (9°C) 4.2 inches (108 mm)
Oct 66°F (19°C) 1.5 inches (37 mm) 32°F (0°C) 3.1 inches (79 mm)
Nov 54°F (12°C) 3.6 inches (91 mm) 18°F (-8°C) 1.8 inches (45 mm)
Dec 47°F (9°C) 3.4 inches (88 mm) 13°F (-11°C) 1.9 inches (49 mm)


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