Lassen Peak, Lassen National Park CA
• 4-star hike
• 4.0 mile out-and-back
• Medium difficulty | Gain 1,990 feet (Peak 10,462 feet)
• Mineral, CA | Lassen National Park
• Driving Directions: Trailhead
Mount Lassen is a towering testament to the volcanic origins of this region, and an imposing sight from the trailhead on the shores of Lake Helen. In truth however, hiking the Lassen Peak trail which switchbacks its way gradually up the mountain is only a moderate workout.
Bagging this peak is best done on a clear day to appreciate the views below and out toward the horizon, as wildlife on the trail is sparse once you've hiked above the last of the treetops. The route continues and the only remaining wildlife you'll see from here to the summit will be the occasional chipmunk scurrying across your path. Views from the peak are nothing short of spectacular on a clear day, stretching as far as the massive snowcapped Mount Shasta over seventy miles away.
Lassen Peak Trail
Lassen Peak Trail 4★
4.0 mi, Out & Back, Medium, Gain 1,990 ft (Peak 10,462 ft)
Trailspotting Map at AllTrails
Being one of the busiest hikes in the park it's worth tackling Lassen Peak early in the day, avoiding any crowds and also avoiding climbing during the warmest part of the day.
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 below to find updated information on road closures, trail closures and campground status.
California Conservation Corps trail crew on the mountain.
Tangents:
• Trail Links: Official, Public Map at AllTrails
• Facebook Group: Comment on this article
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