Lassen Peak [Suggest Edits]

Description

The southernmost active volcano in the Cascade Range, Lassen Peak sits at 10,457 feet of elevation and offers sweeping views of the surrounding countryside. In 1915, Lassen Peak erupted sending ash into the sky and devastating some fo the surrounding areas. A national park was created shortly after to preserve the area, observe the regeneration of the area, and preventing people from settling too close to the volcano. Today, a 2.5 mile (5 mile round trip) hike scales the side of the mountain providing those willing to make the climb amazing views of the surrounding area. The trail up the mountain is only snow free for a short window of time (usually sometime in July -September depending on the amount of snow received over the winter). For experienced skiers, this means there are opportunities to climb the peak and ski down when the trail is not accessible to the majority of hikers. For hikers, this means adventures when the trail opens as pockets of snow persist at the higher elevations even in late summer. Kids love being able to play in the snow in the summer.

At the peak, there is a book that you can sign saying you made it to the top. However, the views are what make this area special. In the distance to the north, you can see Mount Shasta on a clear day. You can see Brokeoff Mountain to the west and below you, Lake Helen. All around the immediate area, you can see the devastation caused by the eruption and how mother nature is recovering to this day. There really is no bad view. There is a benchmark at the peak, so make sure you find that if you want a photograph of it.

It's a strenuous hike for sure, but definitely rewarding for you and the entire family.

Half-Day Hike: Lassen Peak is accessed by the 2.5 mile (one way) Lassen Peak Trail. The trail gains about 2000 feet of elevation over the course of that 2 miles, so be ready for a workout. Often covered in snow from October to June or July, there is a short window when the trail is clear of snow and ice that allows the average hiker to hike to the top of the volcano. If you have traction devices, ice axes and are comfortable hiking on snow, then you can hike to the peak once the National Park Service opens the road.

Gem Type: Viewpoint