Cluster Lakes, Lassen National Park CA
• 4-star hike
• 10.5 mile loop
• Medium difficulty | Gain 1,100 feet (Peak 7,200 feet)
• Mineral, CA | Lassen National Park
• Driving Directions: Trailhead
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.
Cluster Lakes Loop Cluster Lakes Loop 4★10.5 mi, Loop, Medium, Gain 1,100ft (Peak 7,200 ft)
Trailspotting Map at AllTrails
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:
• Trail Links: Official, Public Map at AllTrails
• Facebook Group: Comment on this article
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