5 Incredible Hikes You Need to Take at Lassen Volcanic National Park

Lava, hot springs, and volcanoes galore! 

Lassen Volcanic National Park is one of the most underrated parks in California. Often overshadowed by its sister parks, Yosemite and Sequoia, it has gained a considerable attraction over recent years, almost doubling the number of visitors annually since 2007.

This rise in popularity is partly due to being one of the few places in the world where all four types of volcanoes can be found: a plug dome, shield, cinder cone, and stratovolcano. In fact, the world’s largest plug dome volcano is what the park is named after, Lassen Peak.

The park was established in 1916 and continues to be an excellent spot for people to escape city life’s hustle and bustle. If you’re looking for incredible hikes and stunning views, Lassen is the place for you!

Parks and Landmarks will discuss five of the best hikes at Lassen Volcanic National Park so you can get the most out of your next visit. Remember that the park charges a fee to enter and use these trails, so bring some cash with you.

If you are visiting the park during the winter months, while none of the trails are closed, the roads are. Making sure you have transportation by snowmobile or just snow shoeing is the perfect way to still visit these gorgeous trails during the cold. 

1. Manzanita Lake Loop

The perfect entry-level hike is not too long, not too difficult, and has a stunning payoff.

The Manzanita Lake Loop is ideal for first-time visitors or those short on time. The trail is under two miles long and takes you around the land with a spectacular view of Mt. Lassen, especially at sunset! The perfect hike to get the kids or grandparents out on the trail.

Total Distance: 1.92 miles

Elevation Gain: 52.4 feet

Difficulty: Easy — Walking, Hiking

Route Type: Loop

Other Info:

• Sections of this trail are both wheelchair and stroller accessible.
• Fishing and canoeing/kayaking are common along this trail.
• No dogs allowed on this trail.

2. Ridge Lakes Trail

Ready to give those legs a workout? The Ridge Lakes trail provides an epic hike with a lot of inclines.

The payoff is worth the effort on this trail with meadows and a beautiful lake view. While not as long as a few other trails on this list, the benefit of Ridge Lakes is you get a strenuous trail without the long distance, and to top it all off, there is plenty of shade on the way up to help keep you cool.

Total Distance: 1.98 miles

Elevation Gain: 987 feet

Difficulty: Moderate — Hiking

Route Type: Out & Back

Other Info:

• This trail gains a lot of altitude quickly, so be sure to have plenty of water with you.
• No dogs allowed on this trail.
• Good hiking footwear is recommended, as this trail is mostly a steady climb.

3. Cinder Cone Trail

Interested in seeing the remnants of the incredibly powerful eruptions that created this landscape? Then you need to hike the Cinder Cone Trail.

This is a strenuous trail with a lot of elevation gain, but the surreal views of the cinder cone volcano make it all worth it. Once you reach the top of the trail, you’ll be rewarded with a view of the volcanic landscape that is truly breathtaking.

Total Distance: 3.97 miles

Elevation Gain: 1,043 feet

Difficulty: Moderate — Hiking

Route Type: Loop

Other Info:

• A six- to seven-mile  drive on a gravel road is required to reach this trail.
• There is little to no shade on this trail, so ensure you bring sunscreen and water.
• No dogs allowed on this trail.
• Lava beds create uneven footing on this trail. Please watch your step.

4. Lassen Peak

The highest peak in the park is calling. Will you answer?

This trail isn’t for those who are just getting into hiking, as it is the most difficult on this list. The trail is very steep in sections, but if you can reach the top, you’ll be rewarded with an incredible 360-degree view of Lassen Volcanic National Park. You’ll also see lava beds, pumice fields, and other volcanic features along the way. 

How many people can say they have climbed an active volcano before? You can add your name to that list.

Total Distance: 5.09 miles

Elevation Gain: 1,968 feet

Difficulty: Hard — Hiking

Route Type: Out & Back

Other Info:

• Extreme winds can be present on this trail.
• There is little to no shade on this trail, so be sure to bring sunscreen and water.
• This trail should only be attempted by those with a high level of physical fitness or experience with hiking.
• No dogs allowed on this trail.
• This trail can be rocky at times, so bring proper hiking footwear.

5. Bumpass Hell

While the trail might be named after Hell, the adventure and beauty of this hike are definitely heavenly.

This is one of the most unique trails on this list, as it takes you through a geothermal area where you can see bubbling mud pots and steaming fumaroles. It’s an otherworldly experience that you won’t find anywhere else. Just be sure to stick to the trail, as the hot springs can be incredibly dangerous.

Total Distance: 2.67 miles

Elevation Gain: 426 feet

Difficulty: Moderate — Hiking

Route Type: Out & Back

Other Info:

• There is little to no shade on this trail, so be sure to bring sunscreen and water.
• Be prepared for a strong smell of sulfur on this trail.
• No dogs allowed on this trail.
• This trail can be rocky at times, so bring proper hiking footwear

No matter if you only can do one or all of these hikes, you’re going to have an incredible time at Lassen Volcanic National Park. With the volcanic theme mixed in with a few lush forest areas, you’ll have plenty to see. But just remember, safety always comes first, so be prepared. And have fun!

Happy hiking!