Credit: Priya Karkare via Unsplash
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High deserts, endless beaches, glaciers, and snowy mountains, is there anything missing in the state? When it comes to landscapes and outdoor escapes, the simple answer is no. The third-largest state in the country truly has it all, even craters and volcanoes waiting to be explored by those who dare.
A mini Yellowstone in the Golden State
Lassen Volcanic National Park sits at the southern end of the Cascade Range in Northern California, where it houses all four major types of volcanoes: shield, composite (also called stratovolcano), cinder cone and plug dome.
Its iconic peak, the Lassen Peak, is one of the largest plug-dome volcanoes in the world, reaching 10,457 feet in elevation, as NPS explains.
Credit: Adrián Valverde via Unsplash
Beyond the magma, hot springs, thick mud-pots and fumaroles (steam and volcanic-gas vents) bubble across the landscape, filled with wildflower meadows, glacial lakes, mountain air.
Exploring Lassen Volcanic National Park
This surreal spot in NorCal has a lot to offer, as the travel blog California Through My Lens estates, one of the main attractions is the many hiking routes. The trails here lead you to shimmering alpine lakes, rumbling geothermal basins, and panoramic peaks.
The crown jewel is the Lassen Peak Trail, a steep but rewarding hike where, on clear days, you can see Mount Shasta looming on the horizon. Other scenic favorites include Kings Creek Falls, Cold Boiling Lake (where trapped gases make the water bubble), and the quieter Sifford Lakes and Devastated Area Trail.
Lassen Peak as seen from Lake Helen. Credit: Anna French via Unsplash
Manzanita Lake and Lake Helen offer perfect picnic spots and reflections of Lassen Peak that look painted onto the water. These roadside stops are ideal for travelers short on time or those easing into the park’s higher altitudes.
What to know before visiting
According to the information provided by NPS, late June through October is prime season, when roads and trails are clear of snow and the geothermal areas are fully accessible. Still, it’s important to be aware that at over 8,000 feet, Lassen’s weather can change fast, with storms and snow flurries are possible.
Always check current trail conditions and carry layers, sunscreen, and plenty of water. Geothermal zones are fragile and dangerous off the boardwalks, the ground can be thin with boiling water just below. If you’re inexperienced or are unsure about trails and conditions at the park, it’s always best to simply hire an expert guide or participate in a hiking group with seasoned explorers.