7 Best Day Hikes in Lassen Volcanic National Park

Last updated on July 31st, 2022

Overview

Located a few hours north of Sacramento sits Lassen Volcanic National Park. Not nearly as crowded as Yosemite, this is a great national park for outdoor lovers and hikers to visit without getting bombarded on the trails. There are numerous volcanoes (including Lassen Peak), meadows, lakes, and plenty of wildlife to view and explore. The 7 trails listed below are the best hikes in Lassen Volcanic National Park that you will want to check out. Official Website.

State	California
Nearest Metro Area	Redding, CA
Area Size	106,452 acres
Established	August 9, 1916
Hiking Trails	150 miles

HEY YOU, reading this page! Help me, help you – we make a small commission every time an item or piece of gear is purchased after clicking on the links on our GEAR RECOMMENDATIONS pages. If you are in need of some new BOOTS, a new TENT or SLEEPING BAG, TREK POLES, etc. please consider buying after clicking on one of the links on our site! At no additional cost to you, it helps us keep posting more great hiking recommendations for our readers! Happy Hiking!

Click here for more National Park hikes!
You can also view some of our most popular Gear Recommendations here!

Trailhead Traveler’s Recommended Hikes in Lassen Volcanic National Park

1. Lassen Peak Trail

Popular trail that travels steeply up to the summit of Lassen Peak, an active volcano. The summit is the highest peak in the park and the surrounding views are incredible. The trail is steep and rocky but still easily one of the best hikes in Lassen Volcanic National Park. The trailhead is located in a parking area off of Highway 89.

• 5.0 miles – Out and back
• 2000′ gain
• Strenuous

2. Brokeoff Mountain Trail

Another one of the best hikes in Lassen Volcanic National Park is another steep trip up a mountain. The trail climbs through open meadows then forest before you get above the treeline up to the summit. This is probably the toughest trail in the park but definitely one you cannot miss. The trailhead begins off of Highway 89 near the southwest entrance of the park.

• 7.4 miles – Out and back
• 2600′ gain
• Strenuous

3. Cinder Cone Trail

Beautiful hike that is isolated by Butte Lake away from the rest of the national park. The trail circles the steep cinder cone and hikers can actually go inside the crater for a really neat experience. The trail head is at the Butte Lake parking area in the northeast corner of the park.

• 4.0 miles – Out and back
• 900′ gain
• Strenuous

4. Bumpass Hell Trail

Boardwalk trail going through the largest hydrothermal area in the park, reminiscent of a trip to Yellowstone. The walk is an easy one making it a favorite among families if you can keep your little ones under control! The trailhead is next to a parking area on Highway 89.

• 3.0 miles – Out and back
• No elevation gain
• Easy

5. Mill Creek Falls Trail

Mill Creek Falls is the highest waterfall (75′) in the park and can be seen after hiking ascending and descending hills. There are several overlooks of the falls with good photo opportunities. The trailhead is next to the Kohm Yah-mah-nee Visitor Center.

• 3.8 miles – Out and back
• 200′ gain
• Moderate

6. Kings Creek Falls Trail

Hike to an overlook of the 30′ falls before climbing up a steep, narrow stone staircase. The trailhead is located in the middle of the park off of Highway 89.

• 3.0 miles – Loop
• 200′ gain
• Moderate

7. Manzanita Lake Loop 

Simple trail surrounding the tranquil Manzanita Lake that gives visitors picturesque views of the surrounding peaks. This is a great trail for the family or for those wishing to take a stroll in some shade. The trailhead is off Highway 89 next to the Entrance Station.

• 1.9 miles – Loop
• No elevation gain
• Easy

Don’t forget to stock up on the essentials before you plan your next hiking or camping trip! We have recommendations on:

Hiking Shoes
Tents
Backpacks
And more! Just click HERE