Lassen National Forest Overview
Covering 1.2 million acres, Lassen National Forest lies at the crossroads of the Modoc Plateau, the Great Basin, the Cascade Range, and the Sierra Nevada Mountains in northeast California. The Lassen National Forest is a tremendous public asset that provides a variety of outdoor recreation opportunities to forest visitors. Within the forest, you can also visit Lassen Volcanic National Park. Enjoy relaxing and camping at our many campgrounds, fishing at Lake Almanor, Eagle Lake, and Hat Creek, or hiking the Pacific Crest Trail. You are sure to find that perfect activity that will leave you wanting more. More of the best hikes in Lassen National Forest are described below.
| State | California |
| Nearest Metro Area | Redding, CA |
| Area | 1,070,344 acres |
| Established | June 2, 1905 |
| Hiking Trails | 99 miles |
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Trailhead Traveler’s Recommended Best Hikes in Lassen National Forest
(*** = best hikes in Lassen National Forest)
Bizz Johnson Trail – 26.3 miles point to point
This is the longest rail trail in California and very scenic. The trail winds through the Susan River Canyon and crosses the river 12 times and passes through 2 tunnels. Going west-to-east, the hike is mostly downhill and there is a shuttle service offered on Saturdays most of the year if you can’t do a roundtrip.
Deer Creek Trail – 2.8 miles out and back
Mainly flat trail along Deer Creek that leads to a campsite and large swimming hole on the southwest side of the forest.
Subway Cave Trail*** – 0.6 mile loop
This enjoyable hike descends into the Subway Cave lava tube on a short and dark trail. 20,000 years ago, the ground broke to give way to flowing lava that formed the tube. Remember to bring a flashlight!
Featured Image: Echo Lake, Photo by Marcia Wright
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Best Hikes in Modoc National Forest (CA) | Trailhead Traveler
[…] Forest is located in the northeast corner of California near Shasta-Trinity National Forest and Lassen National Forest. The forest derives its name from the Native American tribe, the Modocs, that used to inhabit the […]