Discover Lassen Volcanic National Park: A Hidden Gem
Nestled away in northern California, Lassen Volcanic National Park is one of the least visited yet most fascinating parks in the U.S. Known for its diverse array of volcanoes, the park offers a unique blend of natural wonders, including Cinder Cone, Shield, Composite, and Plug Dome volcanoes.
Exploring Volcano Types:
– Cinder Cone: Often considered the ‘classic’ type of volcano, Cinder Cones form from lava and ash spewed from a central vent, creating a circular or oval shape. The park’s own Cinder Cone is one of these iconic formations.
– Shield Volcano: These are some of the largest volcanoes on Earth and are characterized by their broad, flattened shape due to the fluidity of basaltic lava. Prospect Peak in the park exemplifies this type.
– Composite Volcano: Also known as Stratovolcanoes, these have steep, layered sides made up of lava flows, ash, cinder, and rock. Brokeoff Mountain is a prime example within the park.
– Plug Dome: These volcanoes form when viscous magma hardens around the vent, resulting in steep, rounded domes. Lassen Peak is a renowned example of a Plug Dome.
Park Essentials:
– Entry Fees:
– Winter Pass (Dec 1 – Apr 15): $10 (valid for 1-7 days)
– Vehicle Pass (Apr 16 – Nov 30): $25 (valid for 1-7 days)
– Motorcycle Pass: $20 (valid for 1-7 days)
– Individual Pass: $12 (valid for 1-7 days)
– Annual Pass: $50
– Getting There:
Address: 38050 Hwy 36 E, Mineral, CA 96063
The park is near Redding, about a 3-hour drive from Sacramento and 4 hours from San Francisco. Due to its remote location, driving is the most practical option. Public transportation is not available.
– 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
– Hours of Operation:
The park is open 24/7. Visitor centers are open daily from 9 AM to 5 PM, except the Kohm Yah-mah-nee Visitor Center, which is closed on Mondays and Tuesdays during the winter. Loomis Museum operates seasonally and is closed from November to May, opening weekend-only starting May 27.
Winter Access:
From November to May, access is limited due to snow, with the Manzanita Lake area and the Kohm Yah-mah-nee Visitor Center being the primary accessible areas.
Top Attractions:
– Brokeoff Mountain: A scenic and popular hike through varied terrains.
– Round Trip Distance: 7.4 miles
– Time: 6 hours
– Difficulty: High; hiking boots recommended
– Bumpass Hell: Known for its geothermal activity, featuring steam vents, boiling mudpots, and wooden walkways.
– Round Trip Distance: 3 miles
– Time: 2 hours
– Butte Lake: A great spot for camping and starting point for the Cinder Cone trail.
– Cinder Cone: A challenging hike through volcanic ash offering stunning views.
– Round Trip Distance: 4 miles
– Time: 3 hours
– Cold Boiling Lake: Features unique gas bubbles near the lake surface.
– Devils Kitchen: The park’s second-largest hydrothermal area.
– Round Trip Distance: 4.2 miles
– Time: 2 hours
– Lassen Peak: The highest peak and namesake of the park.
– Round Trip Distance: 5 miles
– Time: 3-5 hours
– Manzanita Lake: Offers beautiful views and year-round accessibility.
– Prospect Peak: A challenging hike up a Shield Volcano.
– Round Trip Distance: 7 miles
– Time: 4 hours
– Sulphur Works: Once a yellow ochre mine, now a geothermal highlight.
Where to Stay:
– Camping: Available with reservations.
– Nearby Hotels:
– Mill Creek: Basic accommodations close to the park.
– The Village at Child’s Meadow: Clean and comfortable, 10 miles from the park.
– Highlands Ranch Resort: Offers top-notch comfort and amenities, including a bar and restaurant.
– Lassen Mineral Lodge: Rustic yet clean, located a few miles from the park.
Additional Tips:
– Always stay on marked trails for safety.
– Boiling mud and other geothermal areas are hazardous.
– Check for swimming restrictions to avoid dangerous spots.
– Driving is necessary to navigate the park.
– Hiking can take longer, particularly in volcanic ash areas.
– Wear durable clothing as volcanic materials can damage your gear.
