Lassen Volcanic National Park 🌋
Lesson from this trip: Stay open to experiences even if you didn't plan on it.
Honestly, Lassen was a national park that was never on my list. I didn't even know about it until I was in Redding, CA for a bit and it was right next door!
I thought, "Why not? It'll be an experience." AND IT WAS!
Where'd I go?
📍Manzanita Lake
📍Sulphur Works (Hydrothermal Area)
📍Lassen Peak
I spent peaceful time around Manzanita lake, taking in the view of Lassen peak from ground level only to hike to the top of the peak 6 days later!
The hike lands a spot in one of my top most challenging hikes! But the views from the top were stunning! I could see the whole valley AND Mt. Shasta!
Trail info:
Lassen Peak Trailhead
Difficulty: Strenuous
Round-Trip Distance: 5 miles
Elevation Start/Gain: 8,500 ft / 1,957 ft
Environment: Packed dirt with some lose rock from erosion, rock scramble at the peak, icy at the top depending on time of year, little-to-no tree cover
I spent some time driving a bit around the park and there's sooo much to see! I stopped by Sulphur Works which is one of the many hydrothermal areas. It was a good reminder that it's still an active volcano!
If I would've just dismissed going because I had never heard of it, I would've missed out on a beautiful place AND an experience that made me believe in myself even more (that hike was so challenging for me 😅)
I spy a deer in the 4th photo. Can you find it?? 🦌
#nationalparks #granolagirl #outdoors #nature #californiatravel
Lassen Volcanic National Park, located in Northern California, is one of the less crowded yet incredibly diverse national parks in the United States. Beyond the popular Yellowstone and Yosemite, Lassen offers a unique blend of volcanic landscapes, pristine lakes, and vibrant ecosystems that's perfect for adventurers and nature enthusiasts alike. One of the park’s highlights is the hydrothermal area at Sulphur Works. This geothermal zone features steamy fumaroles, boiling mud pots, and vibrant mineral deposits, providing a vivid reminder that Lassen is an active volcano. Visitors are encouraged to explore designated trails here to observe these fascinating natural phenomena safely. Manzanita Lake serves as a peaceful retreat within the park, offering breathtaking reflections of Lassen Peak on calm waters. It's an ideal spot for kayaking, fishing, or simply relaxing surrounded by wildflowers and native wildlife. Many visitors also enjoy spotting deer and birds in the quieter areas near the lake. For those seeking a physical challenge, climbing Lassen Peak is a rewarding experience. The trail, approximately 5 miles round-trip, is strenuous due to significant elevation gain and varied terrain including rocky scrambles near the summit. The panoramic views from the top feature the vast valley below and even distant Mount Shasta on clear days. Preparation and proper gear are essential, as weather and trail conditions can change rapidly throughout the year. Visitors should stay open to spontaneous experiences, much like the original author who hadn’t planned to visit Lassen but found it memorable and inspiring. Planning a trip to Lassen Volcanic can include a mix of easy lakeside strolls, educational stops at hydrothermal sites, and challenging hikes that boost confidence and exhilaration. Overall, Lassen Volcanic National Park offers an authentic, less-traveled national park encounter: a chance to connect deeply with nature, witness powerful volcanic activity, and enjoy the serenity of Northern California’s wilderness. It’s a perfect destination for those wanting to explore beyond the beaten path while immersing in scenic beauty and outdoor adventure.
