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Visitor's Guide to Lassen Volcanic National Park

Prabhakar Pillai
The famous US national park is located in California. It is home to Lassen Peak - the world's biggest plug dome volcano. Did you know that It is among the few regions globally where all the 4 kinds of volcano exist -stratovolcano, plug dome, cinder cone and shield. The park boasts over 150 miles of hiking trails.

Manzanita Lake

Tourists can enjoy swimming and kayaking in this majestic lake. There is a 1.6 mile trail that goes around the lake where visitors can go hiking.

Dark Sky Festival

The festival takes place in July or August and lasts for 3 days. Activities include constellation tours, stargazing and demonstrations by NASA personnel.

Sulphur Works

Tourists can get close to the boiling mud pots and smell sulphur here. The trail is easy to walk on and is surrounded by beautiful forests.

Devil's Kitchen Trail

Here you get to experience firsthand the geothermal phenomena that the park is renowned for. Though challenging the trail offers the chance to see steam vents and geysers in their full glory.

Loomis Museum

A scientist named R.F. Loomis documented the park's volcanic eruptions and other aspects in the previous century. The quaint museum bears his name and displays his work.

Park Road

The main road stretches for around 30 miles giving visitors spectacular sights of the mountain ridge. The national park's 2 visitor centers are  located on the road.

The Devastated Area Trail

In 1915, major volcanic eruptions created this famed trail. It offers breathtaking views of the majestic Lassen Peak.

The Kings Creek Fall

The stunning waterfall is 30 feet tall where water plunges down dark volcanic stones. Unique and native wildlife such as deer and weasels are present in the meadows here. Watch out for rich flora such as the gorgeous California red firs.

The Kohm-Yah-Mah-Nee Visitor Center

The Visitor Center is located at the south-west entrance of the park. Visitors can learn a lot about the region via hands-on exhibits. The staff here are available for you to make the most of your visit.

Tips for Visitors

Late summer and early fall are the best times to visit the park. Visitors can reach the park by road from San Francisco, Concord, Sacramento or Nevada.