National Park & Nature

Lassen Peak

📍 Lassen Volcanic National Park, California, USA

1 photos

3.8/ 5.0

★★★★☆

Introduction

Lassen Peak is the centerpiece of Lassen Volcanic National Park and one of the southernmost large active volcanoes of the Cascade Range, rising about 3,187 m. Its notable 1914–1917 eruptions were the only volcanic eruptions in the contiguous U.S. in the 20th century; fumaroles, boiling springs and mud pots still show geothermal activity. The steep dacite cone offers a ~5 km round-trip summit trail with real elevation gain, overlooking the crater, lava fields and surrounding peaks. The park is famous for containing all four types of volcanoes (shield, cinder cone, lava dome and stratovolcano) in one place — a natural classroom of Earth's forces. At dawn the summit often reveals a sea of clouds and distant Mount Shasta.

✨ Highlights

Summit Trail

~5 km round trip over crater and lava fields.

Geothermal

Boiling springs, mud pots and fumaroles show live geology.

Four Volcano Types

Shield, cinder cone, dome and stratovolcano in one park.

Shasta View

Clear days reveal distant Mount Shasta.

Alpine Lakes

Blue lakes and meadows link nicely on hikes.

Snow & Stars

Winter snowshoe routes and clear night skies.

🛈 Practical Info

→Best season：Jul–Sep roads fully open

→Duration：4–6 hours

→Getting there：~1 hr from Redding

→Fee：National park entrance

→Gear：Hiking shoes, water, sunblock

→Note：Altitude and weather caution

💡 Tips

• Summer snow lingers; trails can be slippery early.

• No shade on summit; start early against UV.

• Stay on boardwalks in geothermal areas; burns risk.

• Bring cash/card; signal is weak.

• Add nearby blue lakes and hot-spring areas.

• Pack out trash to protect the wilderness.

FAQ

Any practical tips for visiting Lassen Peak?

Summer snow lingers; trails can be slippery early. No shade on summit; start early against UV.

Information on this page is compiled from public sources. Opening hours, ticket prices and other details may change — please verify with official sources before your visit.