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 |
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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

Best Hikes in Lassen National Forest (CA) | Trailhead Traveler
[…] 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 […]