Lassen Volcanic National Park Guide

Lassen Volcanic National Park is located in Northern California and is home to a variety of volcanic features, including lava beds, hot springs, geysers, and mud pots. The park was established in 1916, making it one of the oldest national parks in the United States. In this guide, we will explore the various activities and attractions available in the park.

Geothermal Features

One of the main attractions of Lassen Volcanic National Park is the geothermal features, including hot springs, geysers, and mud pots. The park is home to more than 10,000 hydrothermal features, making it one of the most active volcanic areas in the world. The most famous geothermal feature in the park is Bumpass Hell, a hydrothermal area named after a 19th-century trapper who discovered it. Bumpass Hell features boiling mud pots, steaming vents, and a sulfurous odor. The park also features several hot springs, including Boiling Springs Lake, Devil’s Kitchen, and Terminal Geyser.

Hiking

Lassen Volcanic National Park offers a variety of hiking trails, ranging from easy to strenuous. The park features more than 150 miles of trails, allowing visitors to explore the park’s diverse landscape. Some popular hiking trails include the Lassen Peak Trail, a strenuous 5-mile hike to the top of the park’s tallest volcano, and the Kings Creek Falls Trail, a 2.5-mile round-trip hike that leads to a picturesque waterfall.

Camping

The park features eight campgrounds that are open from May to October. The campgrounds offer a range of amenities, including fire rings, picnic tables, and restrooms. The campgrounds are popular and fill up quickly, so reservations are recommended.

Wildlife Viewing

Lassen Volcanic National Park is home to a variety of wildlife, including black bears, mountain lions, bobcats, coyotes, and mule deer. The park is also home to a number of bird species, including bald eagles, ospreys, and peregrine falcons. Visitors can view wildlife from the park’s hiking trails and scenic drives.

Winter Activities

Lassen Volcanic National Park is open year-round, and winter activities include cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and snowmobiling. The park’s Manzanita Lake area offers several miles of groomed cross-country ski trails, and the park’s snowshoe trails provide visitors with an opportunity to explore the park’s winter landscape. The park also offers snowmobile trails in the area surrounding Butte Lake.

Fishing

Lassen Volcanic National Park is home to several lakes and streams that offer fishing opportunities. The park’s lakes and streams are stocked with rainbow, brown, and brook trout. Fishing is permitted in the park with a valid California fishing license.

Scenic Drives

Lassen Volcanic National Park offers several scenic drives that provide visitors with stunning views of the park’s landscape. The park’s main scenic drive is the Lassen Volcanic National Park Highway, a 30-mile drive that takes visitors through the park’s most popular attractions, including Bumpass Hell, Kings Creek Falls, and the Sulphur Works.

Visitor Centers

Lassen Volcanic National Park features several visitor centers that provide information on the park’s history, geology, and wildlife. The Kohm Yah-mah-nee Visitor Center is the park’s main visitor center and features exhibits, a bookstore, and a theater. The visitor center also offers ranger-led programs and guided hikes.

Safety

Visitors to Lassen Volcanic National Park should be aware of the potential hazards associated with the park’s volcanic landscape. Visitors should stay on designated trails and obey all park regulations. Visitors should also be prepared for changing weather conditions and bring appropriate clothing and gear. It is important to always carry plenty of water and food, especially when hiking. Visitors should also be aware of the potential for encounters with wildlife, particularly black bears, and should take appropriate precautions, such as carrying bear spray and properly storing food.