Cluster Lakes, Lassen National Park CA
• 4-star hike
• 11 mile loop
• Moderate | Gain 1,100 ft | Peak 7,200 ft
• Mineral, CA | Lassen Region
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Whether you measure by quality or quantity, this hike's a winner either way. Explore at least a dozen pristine lakes and pools on this loop trail in the heart of Lassen Volcanic National Park.
Begin the hike at the north side of Summit Lake where you'll find kids from the nearby campground frolicking in the cool waters. Head for more serene waters by following the trail up 400ft of elevation, revealing the eastern flanks of Lassen Peak behind you, before descending into a valley created by lava beds once spewed from the caldera of nearby Hat Mountain.
The pine-shaded route around the loop trail traces the flanks of the lakes. Both the Upper and Lower Twin Lakes and Silver Lake are particularly inviting and a great place to take a cooling dip before rejoining the trail, heading uphill and closing off the loop.
⬤ 4★ Cluster Lakes Loop
AllTrails · GPX File · Directions GPX? |
With so much water around these parts, you'll be thankful that you remembered the bug spray - without it you'll be mosquito bait, unless you don't stop moving. Also, if you prefer a shorter hike we recommend a 7-8 mile, 800ft gain out-and-back route to the twin Lakes.
Snow covers the Lassen landscape for much of the year and some roads and trails may not be open - even in summer. Check the links in the links below to find updated information on road closures, trail closures and campground status.
Tangents:
• Official: Lassen Volcanic NP
• AllTrails Public: Cluster Lakes
• Facebook Group: Comment, Follow Us
Trailspotting Nearby
5★ Lassen Peak (4 mi) ·
5★ Bumpass Hell (2 mi) ·
5★ Brokeoff Mountain (7 mi) ·
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Lassen Volcanic National Park
The park's Best Hikes include every type of volcano!
The park's Best Hikes include every type of volcano!
Best Trails of California
See our favorite hiking trails for each region of California.
See our favorite hiking trails for each region of California.