LASSEN VOLCANIC
NATIONAL PARK

AREA - 106,452 ACRES

EST. 08 09 1916

CALIFORNIA

Planning a Trip to
Lassen Volcanic National Park

Lassen Volcanic National Park is located in Northern California and is home to an active volcano, Lassen Peak. The park is filled with numerous hydrothermal features, including boiling mudpots, steaming fumaroles, and bubbling hot springs. Visitors can also explore a variety of landscapes ranging from meadows of wildflowers to ancient lava flows and dense forests. The park also has a rich history, with evidence of Native American inhabitants dating back thousands of years. Whether you're looking for adventure or just a chance to take in the beauty of nature, Lassen Volcanic National Park is the perfect destination.

"the grandest of all special temples of Nature" and "the only one of the world's great parks that could not be improved."
- John Muir

"In God's wildness lies the hope of the world - the great fresh unblighted, unredeemed wilderness. The galling harness of civilization drops off, and wounds heal ere we are aware.
-Theodore Roosevelt

BEST TIME TO GO

The best time to visit Lassen Volcanic National Park depends on what activities you’re looking to do. For camping, the summer months from June to August are the most popular times to visit. Winter months, from December to March, are the ideal months for skiing and snowshoeing. Spring (April-May) and Fall (September-November) are the best times for hiking and exploring the park's many trails. For wildlife viewing, the park is best visited in the early mornings or evenings during summer months. Finally, the best time to witness the park's hydrothermal features are during the colder months when the steam is more visible.

Spring is the best time to visit Lassen Volcanic National Park, as the winter snow melts and the wildflowers begin to bloom. Summer is a great time for camping and hiking in the park as the weather is generally warm and sunny. Fall is a great time to visit Lassen Volcanic National Park, as the leaves turn to beautiful shades of yellow, orange, and red. Winter is also a great time to visit, as the park is blanketed in snow, making it a great place to ski, snowshoe, and snowmobile. No matter what time of year you go, Lassen Volcanic National Park is sure to provide a unique and memorable experience.

OVERVIEW

Lassen Volcanic National Park is one of the most spectacular parks in the United States. It is home to four volcanic peaks, dozens of hot springs and boiling mud pots, and a wide variety of wildlife. The park provides visitors with a unique opportunity to explore and appreciate the wonders of nature. Here are the top five best things about Lassen Volcanic National Park:

1. The dramatic and varied terrain: From alpine meadows to cinder cones, the park has a wide array of landscapes to explore.

2. The volcanic activity: The park is home to four major volcanic peaks and numerous smaller features, including geothermal hot springs and mud pots.

3. The abundance of wildlife: Lassen Volcanic National Park is home to a variety of animals, including deer, mountain lions, and black bears.

4. The variety of recreational activities: From hiking and camping to fishing and boating, there is something for everyone in the park.

5. The stunning views: The park offers breathtaking views of the rugged volcanic landscape and the surrounding Cascade Range.

WEATHER

Lassen National Park offers a diverse range of weather conditions year round. During the summer months, temperatures can reach up to 90 degrees Fahrenheit during the day and can drop to 40 degrees Fahrenheit at night. Winters at the park are typically cold, with temperatures ranging from 30 to 40 degrees Fahrenheit during the day and sometimes dropping as low as 0 degrees Fahrenheit at night. Snowfall is common in the winter months and can make for a picturesque view at the park. No matter the season, visitors should be prepared for a variety of weather conditions at Lassen National Park.

Lassen Volcanic National Park is home to a wide variety of ecosystems, including subalpine forests, meadows, and alpine tundra. The park is located in the Cascade Mountains, a volcanic mountain range, and the mix of habitats makes it a great spot for wildlife watching. There are also a variety of aquatic habitats, including mountain streams and lakes, which provide habitat for fish, amphibians, and other aquatic species. The park is home to many species of mammals, birds, reptiles, and amphibians, including some rare and endangered species. Visitors can explore the park's diverse ecosystems and learn more about the park's unique natural environment.

GEAR

Hiking in Lassen Volcanic National Park is an exciting and rewarding experience, and it’s important to bring the right gear. Here are the top 10 pieces of gear to bring on your next hike in the park: 1) Hiking boots – sturdy, waterproof boots are essential for navigating the trails. 2) Backpack – to carry your supplies, including snacks, water, and rain gear. 3) Rain jacket – to keep you dry in the event of rain or snow. 4) Sunscreen – to protect your skin from the sun’s harsh UV rays. 5) Hat – to keep the sun out of your eyes. 6) Map – to help you navigate the trails. 7) Flashlight – for early morning or evening hikes. 8) Trekking poles – to help keep your balance on uneven terrain. 9) First aid kit – to be prepared for any minor injuries. 10) Camera – to capture the beauty of the park. With these essential pieces of gear, you’ll be ready for any adventure in Lassen Volcanic National Park.

Planning a camping trip to Lassen Volcanic National Park? Make sure you have all the essentials with these top 10 must-have camping gear!

1. Tent: Choose the right size tent depending on how many people you’re bringing.
2. Sleeping Bag: Choose a sleeping bag that is rated for the temperatures at Lassen Volcanic National Park.
3. Flashlight: Invest in a good quality flashlight - you don’t want to be left in the dark!
4. Camp Stove: Bring along a safe and reliable camp stove for cooking your meals.
5. Backpack: Pack your supplies in a sturdy backpack for easy transport.
6. Water Bottle: Stay hydrated with a good quality water bottle.
7. First Aid Kit: Don’t forget to pack a first aid kit in case of any accidents.
8. Firewood: Gather firewood on-site or purchase it from the park.
9. Maps: Make sure to bring maps to help you find your way.
10. Binoculars: A pair of binoculars will help you explore the park and its wildlife.

GEAR UP

HISTORY

Lassen Volcanic National Park has a long and fascinating history. Established in 1916, the park is home to the southern-most active volcano in the Cascade Range and is named after Peter Lassen, the famous trapper and explorer. The park’s volcanic activity began thousands of years ago, with the last major eruption taking place in 1915. Visitors can explore the park’s many hydrothermal features, such as the Bumpass Hell area, and learn about how the volcanic activity has shaped the landscape. One of the best stories about the park is that of Mount Lassen, which was the first volcano in the Cascade Range to erupt in over 200 years. The eruption occurred in 1914 and was seen from miles away. To this day, visitors can still experience the power of the volcano and the beauty of the surrounding landscape.

Lassen Volcanic National Park is home to a number of legendary stories. The most famous is the story of the Lassen Volcano eruption of 1915. According to the legend, the eruption was so powerful that it sent a cloud of volcanic ash into the sky, darkening the sky for days. Another popular legend is that of the Lost Cinder Cone, a small cone-shaped volcano that is believed to have been lost in the eruption. Local tribes have their own legends about the area, including stories of powerful spirits that live in the park and protect its inhabitants. For those interested in learning more about the history and legends of the park, guided tours are available to explore the stories that have been passed down through the generations.

RECOMMENDED

Lassen Volcanic National Park offers a variety of activities for visitors to explore. Here are our top recommendations for getting off the beaten path and having an unforgettable experience:

1. Take a hike on the many trails throughout the park and explore Lassen’s diverse geologic features.

2. Go on a ranger-led walk and learn about the park’s unique volcanic history and geology.

3. Check out the Bumpass Hell Trail and get an up-close look at the park’s hydrothermal features and boiling mud pots.

4. Take a drive along the park’s scenic roads and experience the beauty of the surrounding mountains and forests.

5. Visit the Loomis Museum and learn more about the park’s history and culture.

6. Go camping and explore the park’s backcountry and see some of the area’s most stunning vistas.

1. Water and snacks - Staying hydrated and energized is essential for any outdoor adventure, so make sure to bring plenty of water and snacks to Lassen Volcanic National Park.

2. Sunscreen and sunglasses - The sun can be very intense at high elevations, so pack sunscreen and sunglasses to protect yourself from the sun's harmful UV rays.

3. Hiking shoes - A good pair of hiking shoes is essential for exploring the various trails and terrain in the park, so make sure to bring your best pair.

4. Camera - Don't forget to bring a camera to capture all the beautiful sights and memories you make at Lassen Volcanic National Park.

5. Binoculars - Bring binoculars to get a closer look at the park's flora and fauna.

6. Flashlight - Having a flashlight on hand can be very useful when exploring the park after dark.

GET HERE

PLAN YOUR VISIT

Lassen Volcanic National Park is a great destination for hikers looking for a memorable adventure. Here are the top 10 best hikes at the park: 1) Bumpass Hell Trail, 2) Cinder Cone Trail, 3) Kings Creek Falls Trail, 4) Subway Cave Trail, 5) Summit Lake North Trail, 6) Park Butte Lookout Trail, 7) Lassen Peak Trail, 8) Brokeoff Mountain Trail, 9) Chaos Jumbles Trail, 10) Sifford Lakes Trail. Each of these hikes offers spectacular scenery, unique geologic features, and the chance to explore Lassen's incredible volcanic landscape. Whether you're a novice or an experienced hiker, these trails are sure to provide an unforgettable experience.

1. Hike the Lassen Peak Trail to the 10,457-foot summit of Lassen Peak, the largest plug dome volcano in the world.
2. Explore Bumpass Hell, one of the largest hydrothermal areas in the park.
3. Experience the dramatic landscape of the Lassen Volcanic National Park in the comfort of a horse-drawn wagon ride.
4. Go camping and enjoy the park's diverse scenery and wildlife.
5. Go fishing in the park's many lakes and streams for rainbow, brown, and brook trout.
6. Take a boat ride on Manzanita Lake and see the park from a different perspective.
7. Enjoy a scenic drive along the Lassen Scenic Byway and take in the park's stunning views.
8. Marvel at the views from the top of the Devastated Area, an area that was destroyed by a volcanic eruption.
9. Go snowshoeing or cross-country skiing in the winter months.
10. Take a guided tour of the park and learn more about its volcanic and geologic history.

FIND A CAMPSITE

# OF VISITORS/MONTH

Lassen Volcanic National Park is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts. The park averages around 447,000 visitors each year, with the busiest months being July and August. Visitors are able to explore the park’s volcanic landscape, as well as enjoy a variety of recreational activities such as hiking, camping, fishing, and snowshoeing. The park is also home to a variety of wildlife, including numerous species of birds, mammals, amphibians, and fish. With its spectacular views, abundant wildlife, and diverse recreational activities, it’s no wonder why so many people visit Lassen Volcanic National Park each year.