How to Hike to Lassen Peak at Lassen Volcanic National Park, California
Located over 200 miles north of San Francisco and just east of Redding, California, is Lassen Volcanic National Park. One of the less visited National Parks in the state, Lassen is so named because it includes the foothills and land area around Lassen Peak, a now dormant volcano which was last awakened almost 100 years ago. The trail up to the peak is approximately two and a half miles in length and considered a very strenuous climb. Plan the hike early.
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Things You'll Need
- Map of California, map of Lassen Volcanic National Park, water, layered clothing, good hiking boots, first aid kit, insect repellent, sunscreen, camera
Instructions
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Plan the hike during mid-summer. The park road sometimes remains closed well into May. Check with park rangers about the conditions of the trail and any inclement weather.
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Plan an early morning hike. The peak is known for extreme wind conditions in the afternoons. In fact, there is a general window for climbing. Rangers will be at the trailhead to discourage hikers after a certain time.
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Use the map of California and locate the park in the northern part of the state. Access the park from the southwest entrance, the closest route to the trailhead. Exit off the I-5 at Red Bluff and follow directional signs.
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Drive to the Lassen Peak Trailhead. It is located past Lake Helen at the park road pass. There is a designated parking area just for the trailhead.
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Begin the hike. At almost a 2000 feet elevation gain, the hike is immediately strenuous. It begins on a ridge of small volcanic rock and powder, moonlike, sans any vegetation.
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Continue up to a series of switchbacks. Vegetation appears now in the form of blossoming wildflowers, struggling against the pervading wind. Animals are rare at this elevation as well. On both of the two climbs, only birds and picas can be seen.
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Beware of snow fields. Some snow has been known to stay on Lassen year round. Well trudged paths mark the trail through the field, but depending on the time of day, the cross can be challenging. An afternoon hike means the field is in its melting stage, slushy and unpredictable. A misstep and a slide can twist an ankle. A morning hike means any watery slush from the day before has been frozen again, sweeping the legs out from under the hiker.
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Approach the peak from the south. As the switchbacks reach the saddle, the trail continues up the ridge to the peak. There are several rock outcroppings up here to rest, relax and ponder the view.
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Take a directional inventory of the surroundings at the peak. To the west is the northern reaches of the Sacramento Valley, stopped abruptly by the majestic Mount Shasta. To the north is Mount Shasta, California's northern sentinel, constantly snowcapped and usually holding a small cloud bank captive. To the southeast are northern California mountain ranges and the Caribou Wilderness.
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Expect to see a weather station positioned just to the north of the peak. It has a high fence, high voltage, and considered off limits.
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Tips & Warnings
Make reservations early at any of the park’s campgrounds. The sites go fast during the short visitor season. Lodging accommodations can be made at anywhere along the I-5 corridor. Red Bluff and Redding are the closest towns. Prices will fit any budget.
Resources
- Photo Credit James Barnett
