Nestled in Northern California, Lassen Volcanic National Park is one of the country’s most intriguing yet least visited parks. Renowned for featuring every type of volcano—Cinder Cone, Shield, Composite, and Plug Dome—this park is a geological wonderland.
Volcano Types in Lassen Volcanic National Park
Cinder Cone
Often the archetype of a volcano, Cinder Cones form when lava and ash spew from a vent, gradually building into a circular or oval cone. This park proudly hosts a stunning example of this type.
Shield Volcano
These colossal formations, primarily composed of basalt, are characterized by their broad, flat profiles, resulting from extremely fluid lava. Prospect Peak stands as a magnificent Shield Volcano in Lassen.
Composite Volcano
Also known as Stratovolcanoes, these structures boast steep sides built from alternating layers of lava, ash, cinder, and rock. Brokeoff Mountain is an exemplary Composite Volcano in the park.
Plug Dome
Otherwise known as Lava Domes, Plug Domes form when magma erupts and hardens, accumulating around the vent. Lassen Peak is a quintessential example, with its striking profile resembling a smaller volcano within its caldera.
Visitor Information
Entry Fees
– Winter Pass (Dec 1 – Apr 15): $10.00, valid 1-7 days
– Vehicle Pass (Apr 16 – Nov 30): $25.00, valid 1-7 days
– Motorcycle Pass: $20.00, valid 1-7 days
– Individual Entrance Pass: $12.00, valid 1-7 days
– Annual Lassen Pass: $50
Getting There
Address: 38050 Hwy 36 E, Mineral, CA 96063
Located near Redding, CA, Lassen Volcanic National Park is roughly three hours from Sacramento and four hours from San Francisco. Driving is the most practical way to reach the park.
Visitor centers:
– Kohm Yah-mah-nee Visitor Center: 21820 Lassen National Park Hwy, Mineral, CA 96063
– Loomis Museum (Summer Only): 29489 Lassen National Park Hwy, Shingletown, CA 96088
The park is open 24/7 year-round, though visitor centers have seasonal hours.
Winter Access
From November to May, access is limited to the Manzanita Lake area and the Kohm Yah-mah-nee Visitor Center due to snow.
Top Attractions
Brokeoff Mountain
An eroded stratovolcano, Brokeoff Mountain offers one of the park’s most scenic hikes. Recommended: sturdy hiking boots.
– Round Trip Distance: 7.4 miles
– Time: 6 hours
Bumpass Hell
Named as tantalizing as its scenery, Bumpass Hell features steam vents, boiling mud pots, and a wooden walkway. Exercise caution and stay on the path.
– Round Trip Distance: 3 miles
– Time: ~2 hours
Butte Lake
In the park’s northwest, Butte Lake is a popular spot and starting point for the Cinder Cone trail.
Cinder Cone
A striking and challenging hike through volcanic ash and steep climbs.
– Round Trip Distance: 4 miles
– Time: 3 hours
Cold Boiling Lake
Distinctive for its gas bubbles along the lake’s side, this site requires careful navigation.
Devil’s Kitchen
Located in Warner Valley, this hydrothermal area offers boiling mud pots and steam vents.
– Round Trip Distance: 4.2 miles
– Time: 2 hours
Lassen Peak
The park’s namesake and highest peak, offering a rewarding but challenging climb.
– Round Trip Distance: 5 miles
– Time: 3-5 hours
Manzanita Lake
A popular and scenic stop with year-round access, offering stunning views of Lassen Mountain.
Prospect Peak
The third highest peak, offering the experience of hiking a Shield Volcano. Note: This is a demanding hike.
– Round Trip Distance: ~7 miles
– Time: ~4 hours
Sulphur Works
Once a Yellow Ochre mine, now a geothermal hotspot accessible to visitors.
Accommodations
Camping
Various campsites are available; reservations are required.
Hotels Nearby
– Mill Creek: Basic accommodations close to the park.
– The Village at Child’s Meadow: Comfortable lodging just 10 miles from the park.
– Highlands Ranch Resort: The area’s most luxurious option.
– Lassen Mineral Lodge: Rustic yet clean, a few miles from the park.
Additional Tips
– Stick to marked trails, especially in active geothermic areas.
– Avoid swimming in unmarked lakes due to safety hazards.
– Driving is essential for reaching and navigating the park.
– Hikes may take more time than expected, particularly in volcanic ash.
– Wear durable clothing, as volcanic materials can be hard on attire.
