Lassen Volcanic National Park Tours

Mill Creek which includes dangerous animals and forest scenes

Mill Creek which includes tranquil scenes and a lake or waterhole

Visit Lassen Volcanic National Park

Activities

Surrounded by lush conifer forest, this surreal, lunar terrain boils and bubbles with mud pots and steaming geysers.

Walk at the foot of towering volcanic peaks and peer into pools of geothermal water and mud at Lassen Volcanic National Park. Step from the rocky landscape into serene woodland to discover a variety of animals living in the challenging environment.

In the heart of the park, look up to see Lassen Peak climbing to a height of 10,457 feet (3,187 meters), making it the world’s largest plug-dome volcano. Although it is classified as active, the most recent eruption subsided in 1917. All visible volcanic movements now occur elsewhere within the park.

View thermal activity easily from the sidewalk at Sulphur Works. Stroll along the 3-mile (5-kilometer) Bumpass Hell Trail to get close to the Big Boiler steam vent. Watch thick mud rise and fall in brown bubbles and smell the sulfur that emanates from vents rising from deep within the earth’s crust.

Head to the southeastern side of the park, the Warner Valley Area, to reach Boiling Springs Lake with year-round temperature of 125˚F (52˚C). The shoreline is marked by several geysers that frequently blast steaming water into the sky. Stay on trails and boardwalks to avoid burns or falling through thin surface crusts.

Leave your strange surroundings and hike into the beautiful forest. Find boundless hiking opportunity in more than 150 miles (241 kilometers) of paths with splendid views of the main volcano and south to Brokeoff Mountain. Bring binoculars to spot the bald eagles and peregrine falcons that often hunt here. Look between the branches of fragrant conifer trees that may hide red foxes, coyotes and even black bears.

Lassen Volcanic National Park is located in northeastern California. Use the park’s entrances approximately 50 miles (80 kilometers) east of Redding or 160 miles (257 kilometers) west of Reno. The park is open year-round and has a small admission fee. Snow renders many of the trails unusable during the winter however, sledding and cross-country skiing are both popular at this time.

U.S. national parks offer affordable adventure for all types of travelers. Enjoy the sights and smells of your trip to Lassen Volcanic National Park.

Popular places to visit

Summit Lake

Hike along the trail and join the campers and picnickers in this gorgeous and tranquil spot beside the Volcanic Legacy Scenic Byway.

Mill Creek which includes tranquil scenes, snow and mountains

Devastated Area

Boulders and lava were strewn across this forested valley during a 1915 volcanic eruption. Today enjoy its leisurely trail with audio exhibits.

Kings Creek Meadow

In the shadow of Mount Lassen, this gorgeous meadow provides access to a waterfall and views of the Milky Way and even the aurora borealis.

Upper Meadow

Colorful wildflowers and grasses decorate this vast, open meadow, where you’ll see mule deer grazing along the meandering Kings Creek.

Lassen Peak Trail

Notice the rotten egg smell as you perch over the dome at the end of a trail that loops around the Cascade Range’s southernmost active volcano.

Lake Helen

Lassen Peak, Bumpass Mountain and Ski Heil Peak are among the rocky behemoths that frame the deep blue water of this scenic lake.

Best Lodging Options Near Lassen Volcanic National Park

Drakesbad Guest Ranch

14423 Chester Warner Valley Road, Chester, CA

The Village at Highlands Ranch

41500 Hwy 36E, Mill Creek, CA

Highlands Ranch Resort

41515 Hwy 36E, Mill Creek, CA

Best Western Rose Quartz Inn

306 Main Street, Chester, CA

The Black Forest Lodge

44675 Hwy 36 E, Mill Creek, CA

The Bidwell House

#1 Main Street, Chester, CA

Base Camp Lassen Home 13 Mi to Volcanic Nat'l Park

Shingletown

Paynes Creek Home w/ Hot Tub and Views!

34350 Canyon View Loop, Paynes Creek, CA

See all 322 properties in Lassen Volcanic National Park

Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Things to do near Lassen Volcanic National Park

Lassen Volcanic National Park offers a variety of activities such as hiking, fishing, and boating. Visitors can enjoy picnic supplies while spotting wildlife and accessing scenic trails. The park features several excellent campgrounds, making it an ideal destination for outdoor enthusiasts seeking adventure amidst stunning landscapes.

Shopping

For unique gifts and souvenirs, explore the Lassen Volcanic National Park Visitor Center gift shop, featuring local crafts and educational items. If you're up for a drive, check out the Redding Mall for a wider selection of shops, including national retailers and specialty stores.

Recreation

At Chester Park, located 25.7km from Lassen Volcanic National Park, you can immerse yourself in nature while enjoying wellness activities. The serene atmosphere is perfect for relaxation, offering opportunities for leisurely walks, meditation, and group yoga sessions amidst stunning landscapes.

Adventure

The Devastated Area offers a unique outdoor experience, showcasing the dramatic effects of volcanic activity just 4.8km from the park. For a scenic hike, explore the Warner Valley Trailhead, where adventure meets stunning landscapes, also located 4.8km away. Challenge yourself on the Lassen Peak Trail, 8.0km from the park, for breathtaking views.

Nightlife

While Lassen Volcanic National Park is renowned for its stunning natural beauty, nightlife is quite serene. Enjoy stargazing at the Manzanita Lake Campground or gather around a campfire with fellow visitors. For a unique experience, consider joining a ranger-led evening program that reveals the wonders of the night sky.

*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.

Find the best attractions near Lassen Volcanic National Park

Lassen Volcanic National Park in California offers an array of attractions, including stunning lakes and impressive volcanoes, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers. Visitors can enjoy scenic views, explore hiking trails, and relax at nearby beaches. During the summer, the park comes alive with activities, and nearby guest ranches provide additional experiences. Don't miss the chance to discover the unique beauty of Lassen Volcanic National Park and its surrounding attractions.

Summit Lake: Located a mere 644m from Lassen Volcanic National Park, Summit Lake offers a serene escape with its beautiful beach and stunning scenery. It's a perfect spot for a romantic picnic or a peaceful day of relaxation surrounded by nature.
Lassen Peak: A short 6.4km journey takes you to Lassen Peak, a majestic volcano that promises adventure and breathtaking views. Hike the trails to experience the thrill of reaching the summit, where you'll be rewarded with panoramic vistas of the surrounding landscapes.
Kings Creek Meadow: Just 6.4km from the park, Kings Creek Meadow is an eco-friendly haven ideal for families. Enjoy outdoor activities amidst lush scenery, perfect for a day of exploration and bonding with loved ones in nature.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Lassen Volcanic National Park

For an affordable trip to Lassen Volcanic National Park, consider visiting during the cheaper months of January to February or November, while staying midweek on Tuesdays for the best rates. Utilize Expedia's search tools to find budget-friendly accommodations and filter for eco-certified hotels. Combine your hotel, flights, and activities in an Expedia package for additional savings. Remember, Fridays are the priciest days to stay, so plan accordingly to maximize your savings while enjoying the park's natural beauty.

The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Lassen Volcanic National Park are January to February and November, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to June to August, where prices are slightly higher.
The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around Lassen Volcanic National Park is Tuesday. The most expensive day to stay around Lassen Volcanic National Park is Friday.
Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Expedia's search tool makes it easy to set your budget, choose your ideal location, and more. You can organize your results to display prices from lowest to highest, showcasing the most affordable hotels right at the top. Additionally, you can refine your search by hotel type—if you select the Eco-certified filter, you'll find a selection of sustainable and environmentally-friendly hotels ready for booking.
Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your hotel stay at Lassen Volcanic National Park with your flights and activities through an Expedia package deal.

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