Exploring Lassen Volcanic National Park – A 2024 Guide & Itinerary

In this blog post we will discuss everything that you will need to know to visit Lassen Volcanic National Park, California and the exact itinerary that we followed when we visited the National Park.

If you are new here, Hi! We are Katie and Joe and usually we are on the go. In 2023 we set-off on an epic road trip to see all 63 US National Parks in our self-converted Ford Transit van.

Lassen Volcanic was our 15th National Park on our road trip when we visited it in May of 2023. While there are many ways to access Lassen Volcanic National Park, California we were coming from Pinnacles National Park, California and left to head Redwood National and State Park in Northwest California.

Despite the calendar reading May, the park was blanketed in a pristine layer of snow, transforming it into a surreal and magical landscape.

Do you want to see more of Lassen Volcanic National Park? Check out our Lassen Volcanic National Park Vlog and additional blog posts below:

• INSERT LASSEN VOLCANIC VLOG

Lassen Volcanic National Park, a quick history:

Early History

The region that is now Lassen Volcanic National Park has been inhabited by Native American tribes, primarily the Atsugewi, Maidu, and Yana, for thousands of years. They used the land for hunting, gathering, and spiritual practices.

European Exploration and Settlement

European settlers began exploring the Lassen area in the early 1800s. Peter Lassen, a Danish blacksmith and rancher, played a significant role in the settlement of Northern California and the park is named after him. Lassen guided settlers through the region and opened the Lassen Trail in 1848.

Geological Activity and Formation

The park is renowned for its volcanic activity, which has shaped its landscape. Lassen Peak, the most prominent volcano in the park, last erupted between 1914 and 1921.

This series of eruptions was significant because it was one of the few eruptions in the continental United States in the 20th century. These eruptions helped raise awareness of the park’s unique geological features.

Established as a National Park

The volcanic activity and scenic beauty of the area attracted scientific interest and tourism. In 1907, Lassen Peak and Cinder Cone were designated as national monuments by President Theodore Roosevelt.

On August 9, 1916, Lassen Volcanic National Park was officially established by President Woodrow Wilson to preserve the area’s volcanic features and natural beauty. It was one of the earliest national parks in the United States.

Modern Era

Throughout the 20th century, the park continued to develop its infrastructure to accommodate increasing numbers of visitors. Roads, trails, and visitor facilities were constructed.

In recent decades, the National Park Service has focused on preserving the park’s unique ecosystems and geological features while providing educational opportunities for visitors.

The park is also known for its geothermal features, including boiling springs, fumaroles, and mud pots, which are remnants of its volcanic past.

Lassen Volcanic National Park offers a wide range of activities, including hiking, camping, and exploring its geothermal features. It remains an important site for geological research and education.

How popular is Lassen Volcanic National Park?

Lassen Volcanic National Park is less crowded compared to some of the more famous national parks like Yellowstone, Yosemite, or the Grand Canyon, but it still attracts a significant number of visitors each year.

Visitor Statistics

Lassen Volcanic National Park typically receives around 500,000 visitors annually. This number can vary year to year based on factors such as weather conditions, road accessibility, and overall travel trends.

Why does the National Park Get Less Visitors?

Remote Location: The park’s location in northeastern California is relatively remote, which can make it less accessible for casual visitors compared to parks closer to major cities. More on it’s location later in this blog.

Seasonal Access: The park experiences heavy snowfall in winter, which can limit access to many areas. The main park road, which connects the northern and southern entrances, is often closed from late fall to late spring.

When are popular times to Visit Lassen Volcanic National Park?

Summer: The peak season is during the summer months (June to September), when the weather is most favorable, and all park roads and facilities are open. This is when the park sees the highest number of visitors.

When we visited in the middle of May, almost the entire park was still closed. There was only a single parking lot and a visitor center were open. All trails required waterproof hiking boots or snowshoes.

Fall: Early fall is also a popular time to visit, as the weather remains mild and the fall foliage adds to the park’s beauty.

When did we visit Lassen Volcanic National Park?

Lassen Volcanic was our 15th National Park on our road trip when we visited it in May of 2023.

In 2023, California had a very wet winter that caused a lot of road closures and necessary maintenance around the park.

When we go back, we would plan a trip for the middle of fall which should give the snow inside the National Park enough time to melt off. This would allow us more opportunity to hike the many fantastic trails in the park.

Plan Your Trip With Our Favorite Resources

How to get to Lassen Volcanic National Park?

What are the closest airports to Lassen Volcanic National Park?

Redding Municipal Airport (RDD): Located approximately 50 miles west of the park, Redding Municipal Airport is the nearest airport and offers convenient access to Lassen Volcanic National Park. It has limited commercial flights, mostly serviced by regional airlines.

 From the airport, you can rent a car and take the following route:

• Head southeast on CA-44 E:
• Exit the airport and take CA-44 E towards Shingletown.
• Continue on CA-44 E for approximately 48 miles until you reach the park’s northwest entrance near Manzanita Lake.

Sacramento International Airport (SMF): About 150 miles south of the park, Sacramento International Airport is a larger airport with more frequent and diverse flight options. It serves as a major hub for travelers heading to Lassen Volcanic National Park.

 From the airport, you can rent a car and take the following route:

• Exit the airport and merge onto I-5 N towards Redding.
• Continue on I-5 N for about 95 miles.
• Exit at CA-36 E/Antelope Blvd in Red Bluff and continue on CA-36 E for about 43 miles.
• Follow signs for Lassen Volcanic National Park on CA-89 N.
• Continue on CA-89 N for about 30 miles to reach the park.

Reno-Tahoe International Airport (RNO): Located around 160 miles southeast of the park, this airport is another viable option for reaching Lassen Volcanic National Park. It offers a range of domestic flights and is a good alternative for those traveling from different parts of the country.

 From the airport, you can rent a car and take the following route:

• Exit the airport and take I-80 W towards Sacramento.
• Continue on I-80 W for about 70 miles.
• Take the exit for CA-89 N towards Sierraville and follow it for approximately 80 miles.
• Continue on CA-44 W for about 45 miles to reach the park’s northwest entrance near Manzanita Lake.

Additional Travel Tips:

Check Road Conditions: Always check for road closures or construction updates on the Caltrans website or the park’s official site before starting your journey.

Fuel Up: Ensure your vehicle is fueled up, as gas stations can be sparse near the park.

Weather Considerations: Be aware of seasonal weather conditions, especially in winter, as snow can impact road accessibility.

Are there Public Transportation Options To Lassen Volcanic National Park?

Unfortunately, there are no direct public transportation options to Lassen Volcanic National Park. The best way to reach the park is by driving.

Car rentals are available at all major airports, and rideshare services like Uber and Lyft can be used for shorter distances. Here are the prices for a rideshare service through GetTransfer.com (which we’ve used in the past as is great)!

• Redding Municipal Airport (RDD) -> Lassen Volcanic: $90
• Sacramento International Airport -> Lassen Volcanic: $250
• Reno-Tahoe Airport -> Lassen Volcanic: $220

Lassen Volcanic National Park has two entrances

Before setting off on your trip to Lassen Volcanic National Park, it’s important that there are two distinct entrances in to the park, a Southwest and Northwest Entrance.

But, don’t worry the entire park is connected by a highway so you’ll be able to experience attractions on both sides.

The Southwest Entrance is located off Highway 36 near the Kohm Yah-mah-nee Visitor Center, address: 21820 Lassen National Park Hwy, Mineral, CA 96063

The Northwest Entrance is off Highway 44 near the Loomis Museum, address: 29489 Lassen National Park Hwy, Shingletown, CA 96088.

These entrances provide access to the park’s scenic highway and its numerous attractions, including geothermal features, hiking trails, and picturesque views.

Are there Entrance Fees For Lassen Volcanic National Park?

Yes, there are entrance fees for Lassen Volcanic National Park. The fees as of 2024 are as follows:

Lassen Annual Pass: $55, valid for one year from the month of purchase.

Vehicle Pass: $30 per vehicle, valid for 7 days.

Motorcycle Pass: $25 per motorcycle, valid for 7 days.

Individual Pass: $15 per person, valid for 7 days. This applies to walk-ins, bicycles, and non-commercial groups.

Alternatively, for those looking for a more economical option, you can purchase the America The Beautiful Pass from REI, which provides access to all national parks for a full year.

For the most up-to-date information on entrance fees and passes, it’s best to check the official Lassen Volcanic National Park website.

Drive The Lassen Volcanic National Park Highway

The 30-mile Lassen Volcanic National Park Highway meanders around the eastern side of Lassen Peak, connecting the park’s northwest and southwest entrances.

Allocate about an hour for the drive, excluding any stops. You can travel the highway in either direction to take in the various roadside attractions and scenic views.

Roadside Audio Tour

Enhance your visit with an audio tour along the park highway. Before your trip, download the NPS App and select Lassen Volcanic NP Highway under Self-Guided Tours.

This will give you access to 16 audio files that align with numbered posts along the highway, providing interesting insights about the park.

Printed Road Guide

For a more comprehensive experience, consider purchasing a printed park road guide at the park stores located in the Kohm Yah-mah-nee Visitor Center and Loomis Museum, or you can buy it online.

Buy this Lassen Volcanic National Park Map by National Geographic before you visit.

Highway Highlights

The highlights below match numbered markers on the map below and posted along the highway. The highway markers also correspond to stops in the audio tour and road guide.

0. Southwest Entrance Sign
1. Kohm Yah-mah-nee Visitor Center 
2. Sulphur Works Hydrothermal Area 
3. Diamond Peak Scenic Vista
4. Little Hot Springs Creek Overlook
5. Emerald Lake
6. Brokeoff Volcano Scenic Vista (Bumpass Hell Trail parking area)
7. Lake Helen
8. Lassen Peak Scenic Vista
9. Kings Creek Meadow Viewpoint
10. Hat Creek Viewpoint
11. Devastated Area
12. Hot Rock
13. Sunflower Flat (Nobles Emigrant Trail)
14. Chaos Crags Viewpoint
15. Reflection Lake
16. Lassen Crossroad

Does Lassen Volcanic National Park have a visitors center?

Yes, Lassen Volcanic National Park has two visitor centers:

Kohm Yah-mah-nee Visitor Center: This is located at the Southwest Entrance of the park, address: 21820 Lassen Peak Hwy, Mineral, CA 96063.

It is open year-round and provides a variety of services including exhibits, a park film, a bookstore, and a café. It also offers information and orientation for visitors, and it’s a great starting point for exploring the park.

Loomis Museum: Located at the Northwest Entrance near Manzanita Lake, address: 29489 Lassen National Park Hwy, Shingletown, CA 96088.

This museum is open seasonally from late spring to early fall. It features exhibits on the park’s volcanic activity, a bookstore, and information services.

Both visitor centers offer valuable resources and information to help you make the most of your visit to Lassen Volcanic National Park​.

Before heading to a visitor center, make sure it’s open by visiting their website (here).

Map of Lassen Volcanic National Park

Where do you stay when visiting Lassen Volcanic National Park?

When visiting Lassen Volcanic National Park, you have several options for accommodation, ranging from campgrounds within the park to lodging options in nearby communities. Here are some choices:

Lodging Outside the Park:

• Lassen Cabin on the Creek (EV Charger, Pet Friendly, Sleeps 8)
• Rustic Mountain Cabin (EV Charger, Pet Friendly, Sleeps 8)
• Cabin on 20 Acres (Private Trout Stream, Pet Friendly, Sleeps 12)
• Cozy Cabin (Brand New, Pet Friendly, Sleeps 6)

If you’re willing to drive a bit farther, the city of Redding offers a wider variety of hotels, motels, and other accommodation options. It’s approximately 50 miles west of the park.

Shingletown or Chester: These nearby towns have additional lodging options, including hotels, motels, and vacation rentals. They offer a range of choices to suit different preferences and budgets.

Campgrounds in the Park:

• Manzanita Lake Campground: This campground is located near the park’s northwest entrance and offers a beautiful setting near Manzanita Lake. It provides both tent and RV camping.
• Summit Lake Campground: Situated near the southern entrance, this campground is close to Summit Lake and offers both tent and RV sites.
• Butte Lake Campground: Located in the park’s northeast, this campground is closer to Cinder Cone and Fantastic Lava Beds. It provides a more remote camping experience.

It’s advisable to check the park’s official website for the latest information on campgrounds, availability, and any seasonal closures.

Backcountry Camping:

• Lassen Volcanic National Park also allows backcountry camping for those seeking a more remote and immersive experience. Permits are required for backcountry camping, and it’s essential to follow Leave No Trace principles.

Lodging Outside the Park:

• Indian Peak Vineyards: Indian Peak Vineyards is a family owned and operated Boutique Winery in the mountain community of Manton. It can be booked through Harvest Host. Don’t have a Harvest Host Account? It’s 30% Off right now.

Camping in the Winter (Super Secret Tip):

In Lassen Volcanic National Park, self-contained vehicles are permitted to camp overnight in the visitor center parking area during the winter for a fee.

We spent the night in the parking lot with a total of 10 other vehicles, it was a very fun experiences as we felt like we had the entire National Park to ourselves.

Make Reservations:

Additionally, make reservations if possible, especially during peak visitation times, to ensure you have a place to stay that suits your preferences. You can book campsites on Recreation.Gov.

Does Lassen Volcanic National Park have a lodge?

Lassen Volcanic National Park does not have a traditional lodge within its boundaries. However, there are several accommodation options nearby:

Manzanita Lake Camping Cabins: Located near the northwest entrance of the park, these cabins offer a more comfortable camping experience with beds, a dining table, and a porch. They do not have plumbing, but restrooms and showers are available nearby.

Is there internet service at Lassen Volcanic National Park?

Free WiFi access is available inside the Kohm Yah-mah-nee Visitor Center at the Southwest Entrance of the park.

Cellular access is extremely limited in the park. AT&T and Verizon service are strongest at Bumpass Hell parking area, Lassen Peak parking area, and Chaos Jumbles pullout (near Manzanita Lake).

What is the best time to visit Lassen Volcanic NP?

Lassen Volcanic National Park experiences diverse seasons, each offering a unique charm. However, the best time to visit largely depends on your preferences:

• Summer (June to September): Ideal for hiking and exploring, with most trails accessible. The weather is generally mild, ranging from 40°F to 75°F.
• Fall (October to November): Vibrant fall foliage adds a stunning backdrop to the volcanic landscapes. Cooler temperatures, ranging from 25°F to 65°F, make for comfortable hiking.
• Winter (December to March): A magical winter wonderland with snow-covered landscapes. Winter sports enthusiasts can enjoy snowshoeing and cross-country skiing.
• Spring (April to May): As the snow begins to melt, waterfalls surge, and wildflowers bloom. Trails may be partially open due to lingering snow.

How much time is needed to visit Lassen Volcanic National Park?

The amount of time needed to visit Lassen Volcanic National Park depends on your interests and the activities you plan to do.

When we went in May of 2023, we were not expecting the snow pack to be as high as it was so we were unable to do much because we simply did not have the proper equipment (Snow Shoes, Back Country Skis, Snow Gaiters, Snow Sled, Etc.)

Here are some general guidelines:

Day Trip

• Highlights: If you have only one day, you can still see some of the park’s main attractions. Focus on the Lassen Volcanic National Park Highway, which provides access to major sites like the Sulphur Works, Bumpass Hell, and the Devastated Area.
• Activities: Short hikes, scenic drives, and roadside attractions.

Two Days

• Expanded Exploration: With two days, you can explore more of the park’s diverse landscapes and engage in longer hikes.
• Day 1: Drive the Lassen Volcanic National Park Highway, visit the main geothermal areas, and hike the Bumpass Hell trail.
• Day 2: Explore the northwest section, including Manzanita Lake, and consider hiking to Lassen Peak if you’re prepared for a strenuous hike.

Three Days or More

• In-Depth Experience: With three days or more, you can thoroughly explore the park, including backcountry areas and less-visited spots.
• Day 1: Follow the itinerary for a two-day visit.
• Day 2: Hike the Cinder Cone, explore Butte Lake, and visit other remote areas.
• Day 3: Spend additional time at favorite spots, engage in ranger-led programs, or enjoy water activities at Manzanita Lake.

With the limited amount of tourist Lassen Volcanic National Park get you are really free to plan your trip without the worry of finding parking spaces or crowded trails.

When we went in May 2023 we saw in total 30 people. Once the snow melts in the season it definitely gets more crowded but in comparison to nearby Yosemite, it’s a ghost town of a National Park.

Can I bring my pet when visiting Lassen Volcanic NP?

Yes, you can bring pets to Lassen Volcanic National Park, but there are specific regulations to ensure the safety of the wildlife and the preservation of the natural environment. Here are the key points regarding pets in the park:

Leashes: Pets must be on a leash no longer than six feet at all times.

Restricted Areas: Pets are not allowed on trails, in the backcountry, or in park buildings. This includes all hiking trails and areas where sensitive wildlife and plants are present.

Allowed Areas: Pets are permitted in developed areas, including campgrounds, picnic areas, and along roads. They are also allowed in the parking areas and on paved paths.

Supervision: Pets must be attended at all times. Leaving pets unattended in vehicles or tied to objects is not allowed.

Waste Disposal: Owners must clean up after their pets and dispose of waste properly in designated trash receptacles.

For all infroamtion about bringing your pet to Lassen Volcanic National Park, check out their website here.

Visiting a National Park for the first time?

We put together a blog post that highlights everything that we do as we prepare to visit a new National Park. This guide gives you key tips, links, and. tools to help you successfully plan your first National Park. Click here to read more!

Should I bring a camera when visiting Lassen Volcanic National Park?

ABSOLUTELY! Lassen Volcanic National Park is very picturesque, you should definitely bring a camera to capture it all.

Don’t know which camera you’ll need? A wise person once said the best camera you have is the one that’s on you, however If you’ve got an iPhone (like this one) you’ll be set!

If you want something a bit more capable, that’s our specialty! We love camera gear, here’s our current camera gear set-up.

Have camera question, send us an email and we can help you build out the perfect camera kit for your National Park trip.

Are there guided hikes in Lassen Volcanic National Park?

Yes, Lassen Volcanic National Park offers guided hikes and ranger-led programs during the summer season.

These programs provide visitors with opportunities to learn more about the park’s unique geology, diverse ecosystems, and rich history from knowledgeable rangers.

Types of Guided Hikes and Programs:

Ranger-Led Hikes: These hikes are typically scheduled during the summer months and cover various trails and topics. They offer insights into the park’s volcanic activity, plant and animal life, and historical significance.

Evening Programs: Evening ranger programs are often held at the park’s campgrounds and amphitheaters. These programs can include talks, slideshows, and interactive activities focused on the park’s natural and cultural resources.

Junior Ranger Programs: Special programs designed for children to engage them in learning about the park and earn a Junior Ranger badge.

How to Participate:

Check the Park’s Calendar: The National Park Service website for Lassen Volcanic National Park provides a calendar of events and programs. This is the best way to find current schedules and details about ranger-led hikes and other programs.

Visitor Centers: Information about guided hikes and programs is also available at the Kohm Yah-mah-nee Visitor Center and Loomis Museum. Rangers and staff can provide the latest updates and help you plan your visit.

For the most accurate and up-to-date information on guided hikes and ranger programs, visit the official Lassen Volcanic National Park website.

In Conclusion, your guide to exploring Lassen Volcanic National Park:

This travel guide and itinerary to Lassen Volcanic National Park covers everything from the park’s unique volcanic features to essential hiking trails, camping tips, and must-see attractions like Bumpass Hell and Lassen Peak.

With detailed advice on planning your visit, including the best times to go, what to pack, and safety tips, this guide ensures you make the most of your adventure in one of California’s most fascinating natural landscapes.

We want to thank you for spending a few minutes with us and sharing in our passion for National Parks. Your support helps us continue to explore and bring you the best tips and guides for your adventures.

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