Lassen Peak was once a volatile volcano 100 years ago. (glennwilliamspdx / flickr)
Obscured by the popularity of Yosemite and Death Valley, Lassen Volcanic quietly exists in the northeast corner of California. Once a fiery landscape of volcanic eruptions, it now exists as a lake-filled dream landscape for mountain lovers and a quiet alternative for those who want to see something between Mount St. Helens and the Sierra Nevada.
WHAT TO DO – For a kid-friendly hike, loop around Manzanita Lake. “Well shaded by looming Jeffrey pines and bordered by lush willows, this trail offers a welcomed respite from the heat of the day,” the National Park Service writes. It also has — in addition to hopefully spotting a beaver — camera-ready views of Lassen Peak.
For a more challenging Lassen Volcanic experience, take on the Brokeoff Mountain Trail in the park’s southern end. Walk 7 miles and up 2,600 feet of peaceful meadows and hard-scrambling above-treeline landscapes for panoramic views of five named peaks, including Mount Shasta.
Winter blankets Lassen Peak (exquisitur / flickr)
During winter, the park shuts down its 29-mile main road for vehicular travel, but skiers can slide away deep into the park’s peaceful backcountry, which can receive as much as 30 inches of snow each winter month. The park service recommends starting a cross-country skiing expedition at the Loomis Museum or the Southwest Parking Area, with trails breaking off to Lassen Peak, Ridge Lakes and Forest Lakes, as well as other routes. Choose a trip based on your experience level as there are dangers like avalanches to consider.
DID YOU KNOW? – Lassen Volcano erupted 150 times between 1914 and 1915. The last known rumble was in 1921.
FAUNA – Lassen Volcanic hosts that icon of the American wilderness – the black bear. Protect your food while exploring the backcountry. Birdwatchers should enjoy the 83 varieties of winged-creatures which dart through the park, including the mango-colored western tanager with its strawberry-tinted head.
GET THERE – Lassen Volcanic is about 250 miles from San Francisco. Hook up with Route 44 east to Route 89 south if you’re coming from Redding, Calif., to reach the Manzanita Lake Entrance.
CONNECT – Lassen Volcanic officials maintain a Twitter feed (LassenNPS). Their website can be found here.
