Discover Lassen Volcanic National Park: A Hidden Gem of Wonders
Lassen Volcanic National Park may not be the most visited, but it’s certainly one of the most fascinating parks in the country. It’s renowned for showcasing all four types of volcanoes: Cinder Cone, Shield, Composite, and Plug Dome.
Exploring Lassen’s Volcanoes
Cinder Cone Volcanoes
These classic volcanoes form from lava and ash spewed from a vent, creating circular or oval-shaped mounds over time. The park’s own Cinder Cone is a perfect example of this type.
Shield Volcanoes
Characterized by their immense size and gentle slopes, shield volcanoes are built almost exclusively of basalt. Their fluid lava spreads out in a wide, flat shape, giving them their broad tops. Prospect Peak in the park is a fine example of a shield volcano.
Composite Volcanoes
Also known as stratovolcanoes, these have steep sides made from alternating layers of lava, ash, cinder, and rock. This diverse layering gives them their name. Brokeoff Mountain is a striking example of a composite volcano.
Plug Dome Volcanoes
Sometimes called lava domes or volcanic domes, these form when magma erupts and hardens near the vent, creating a mound inside the caldera. Lassen Peak is the park’s iconic plug dome volcano.
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 Entrance Pass: $12 (valid for 1-7 days)
– Annual Lassen Pass: $50
Getting There
Address:
38050 Hwy 36 E, Mineral, CA 96063
Located in Northern California near Redding, Lassen Volcanic National Park is about three hours from Sacramento and four hours from San Francisco. Driving is the most practical way to get there, as 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, though the visitor centers have specific hours:
– Daily: 9 am – 5 pm
– Kohm Yah-mah-nee Visitor Center closes on Mondays and Tuesdays during winter.
– Loomis Museum is closed from November through May and operates from Friday to Sunday during the early summer period (May 27 – June 12).
Winter Access:
From November to May, access is limited to the Manzanita Lake area and the Kohm Yah-mah-nee Visitor Center due to snowy conditions.
Must-See Spots
Brokeoff Mountain
A popular and scenic hike that takes you through meadows and diverse terrains. This trail is rugged, so hiking boots are recommended.
– Round Trip Distance: 7.4 miles
– Round Trip Time: 6 hours
Bumpass Hell
The park’s largest geothermal area, featuring steam vents, boiling mudpots, and steaming grounds. Stick to the wooden walkways for safety.
– Round Trip Distance: 3 miles
– Round Trip Time: ~2 hours
Butte Lake
This beautiful lake in the park’s northwest is a great spot for camping and is the starting point for the Cinder Cone trail.
Cold Boiling Lake
Known for its gas bubbles, this lake has an area that bubbles near the surface. Exercise caution here.
Devil’s Kitchen
This hydrothermal area in Warner Valley, offers sights similar to Bumpass Hell, with boiling mudpots and steam vents.
– Round Trip Distance: 4.2 miles
– Round Trip Time: 2 hours
Lassen Peak
The park’s namesake and most recent erupting volcano, Lassen Peak is also the highest point. Trails close in winter due to snow.
– Round Trip Distance: 5 miles
– Round Trip Time: 3-5 hours
Manzanita Lake
A popular spot with picturesque views of Lassen Peak, it’s also accessible during the winter.
Prospect Peak
The third highest peak, offering a challenging hike.
– Round Trip Distance: ~7 miles
– Round Trip Time: ~4 hours
Sulphur Works
Once a yellow ochre mine, this area is now one of the park’s most accessible geothermal sites.
Where to Stay
Camping:
Reservations are required for camping. Check the park’s website for options and bookings.
Hotels:
– Mill Creek: Basic accommodations close to the park.
– The Village at Child’s Meadow: Clean and comfortable, associated with neighboring Highlands Ranch.
– Highlands Ranch Resort: The most luxurious nearby option, featuring a bar and restaurant.
– Lassen Mineral Lodge: Rustic but clean, just a few miles from the park.
Important Tips
– Always stay on designated trails, especially in active geothermal areas.
– Avoid swimming in undesignated lakes, as temperatures can be dangerously high.
– Driving is essential to access and navigate the park.
– Wear durable clothing suitable for rugged terrains and potentially corrosive volcanic ash.
