When we think of volcanoes, visions of these spectacular forces of nature often come to mind in places like Kīlauea in Hawaii, Cotopaxi in Ecuador, and Mount Fuji in Japan, among others. But guess what? California also has one in one of the state’s best-kept secrets: Lassen Volcanic National Park.
In these uncertain times, please keep safety in mind and consider adding destinations to your bucket list at a later date.
Located about three hours northeast of Sacramento in the Shasta Cascade area, Lassen Volcanic National Park has a long and storied history. Around 100 years ago, a series of volcanic eruptions took place, during which an incredible mudslide cut a 12-mile strip through the rugged terrain. In its wake, numerous hydrothermal features appeared, including pools of boiling water, steaming ground vents called fumaroles, pulsating mud pots, and a 1/3 mile long lava tube.
The Loomis Museum features an incredible display of photographs of the park taken by the Loomis family who built this unique architectural structure in the early 1900s, later donating its entire 40-acre lot for the enjoyment of generations to come. The Warner Valley Trail, dotted with spacious meadows, tranquil forests, charming walkways and inviting hot springs, rises from 5,640 feet.
Volcanic features are dotted along the park’s 30-mile long highway that stretches between the northwest and southwest entry points.
The Warner Valley Trail, dotted with spacious meadows, tranquil forests, charming walkways and inviting hot springs, rises from 5,640 feet. Nestled at 8,046 feet is Mount Harkness Fire Lookout, offering awe-inspiring scenic views and beautiful hiking trails. At the Nobles Emigrant Trail, take time to imagine where approximately 250,000 emigrants walked west in search of gold in the 1840s and 1850s.
That’s just the tip of… well… the volcano, of everything you’ll find at Lassen Volcanic National Park. Visit the Lassen Volcanic National Park website for more information about the visit! Have you ever visited Lassen Volcanic National Park? If so, what did you like the most? We would love to hear about your experience there.
If you love national parks, check out this list of 19 Northern California state parks that will blow your mind!
Address: Lassen Volcanic National Park, California, USA
