10 Unforgettable Things to Do in Lassen Volcanic National Park, California

Lassen Volcanic National Park, California, is a hidden gem filled with geothermal wonders, stunning landscapes, and incredible outdoor adventures. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast, hiker, or photographer, this national park offers breathtaking experiences that rival those of Yellowstone. Here are ten unforgettable things to do when visiting Lassen Volcanic National Park.

1. Explore Bumpass Hell

Bumpass Hell is the largest hydrothermal area in Lassen Volcanic National Park, featuring boiling springs, steaming fumaroles, and bubbling mud pots. This three-mile round-trip hike takes you through an otherworldly landscape, showcasing the park’s volcanic activity up close.

Named after a 19th-century explorer who burned his leg in the scalding ground, Bumpass Hell provides visitors with a safe and scenic way to witness geothermal phenomena. The boardwalks allow for close views of these geothermal features while ensuring protection for both visitors and the delicate environment.

2. Hike to Lassen Peak

Lassen Peak, the most iconic landmark in the park, offers an exhilarating hike with panoramic views of Northern California. The 5-mile round-trip trail ascends 2,000 feet, taking you to the summit at 10,457 feet above sea level.

Hikers are rewarded with breathtaking vistas of the Cascade Range, the Sierra Nevada, and even Mount Shasta on clear days. The climb is challenging but manageable, making it a must-do for adventure seekers looking for one of the best viewpoints in Lassen Volcanic National Park.

3. Discover the Sulphur Works

Sulphur Works is one of the most accessible geothermal areas in the park, located right along the main park road. Here, you can see boiling mud pots and steam vents up close without a strenuous hike.

The strong sulfuric smell and the hissing steam vents give an eerie yet fascinating glimpse into the park’s volcanic activity. This stop is perfect for visitors who want to experience geothermal features without trekking deep into the wilderness.

4. Enjoy the Tranquility of Manzanita Lake

Manzanita Lake is a serene spot for kayaking, fishing, and photography, offering stunning reflections of Lassen Peak. It’s one of the best places in the park for a peaceful retreat into nature.

The easy 1.5-mile loop trail around the lake is perfect for families and casual hikers. The area is also an excellent place for wildlife spotting, with frequent sightings of deer, otters, and various bird species.

5. Walk the Devastated Area Interpretive Trail

This short and educational trail provides insights into the dramatic 1915 eruption of Lassen Peak. The Devastated Area Interpretive Trail is an easy half-mile loop featuring exhibits explaining the volcanic blast’s impact on the landscape.

Large boulders, lava flows, and charred trees remain as evidence of the eruption’s power. This trail is perfect for history buffs and families looking for an informative and easy walk.

6. Experience the Beauty of Kings Creek Falls

Kings Creek Falls is a spectacular waterfall cascading 30 feet down a rugged cliffside, offering one of the most picturesque views in Lassen Volcanic National Park.

The 2.3-mile round-trip hike takes you through lush meadows and dense forests before reaching the falls. The scenic beauty and moderate difficulty make this one of the most rewarding hikes in the park.

7. Camp Under the Stars

Lassen Volcanic National Park is designated as a Dark Sky Park, making it an excellent destination for stargazing. The lack of light pollution allows for breathtaking night skies filled with stars, planets, and the Milky Way.

Camping at Manzanita Lake or Summit Lake provides a true wilderness experience. Whether you’re in a tent or an RV, a night under Lassen’s sky is a magical experience.

8. Snowshoeing and Winter Adventures

Lassen Volcanic National Park is a year-round destination, offering incredible winter activities such as snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, and sledding.

The park’s volcanic landscape looks surreal when blanketed in snow, and ranger-led snowshoe walks provide an educational and fun way to explore Lassen’s winter wonderland.

9. Visit Subway Cave Lava Tube

Just outside the park, Subway Cave is an ancient lava tube that offers a fascinating underground adventure. A short walk leads visitors into the cave’s dark tunnels, formed by lava flows thousands of years ago.

A flashlight is necessary to explore this unique geological wonder. The constant cool temperature inside makes it a refreshing stop, especially on a hot summer day.

10. Take in the Views at Chaos Crags

Chaos Crags is one of the youngest volcanic features in the park, formed by a series of lava domes. The Chaos Crags Trail offers an adventurous hike to a viewpoint overlooking Chaos Jumbles, a massive rockslide that occurred over 300 years ago.

This less-traveled trail provides solitude and stunning scenery, making it a hidden gem for those looking to escape the crowds.

Final Thoughts

Lassen Volcanic National Park, California, is an extraordinary destination filled with natural beauty, geothermal wonders, and outdoor adventures. Whether you’re hiking to Lassen Peak, relaxing at Manzanita Lake, or exploring Bumpass Hell, this park offers something for everyone. Plan your visit to experience one of California’s most underrated national parks, and prepare for an unforgettable journey into the heart of a volcanic wonderland.