7 Best Hikes in Lassen Volcanic National Park

Last updated on July 4th, 2023

Lassen Volcanic National Park 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.

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

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Trailhead Traveler’s Recommended Best Hikes in Lassen Volcanic National Park

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′ elevation gain
• Strenuous

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′ elevation gain
• Strenuous

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′ elevation gain
• Strenuous

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

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′ elevation gain
• Moderate

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 mile loop
• 200′ elevation gain
• Moderate

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 mile loop
• No elevation gain
• Easy

Featured Image: Morning at Reflection Lake, Photo by Seth Tisue