Hey national park lovers! Welcome to my blog on Lassen Volcanic National Park. My name is JuJuan and I’m the mother of a 23-year-old son. I was born and raised in California – growing up in the San Fernando Valley. I’m what they refer to as a “Valley Girl”! I work in Hollywood as a Stage Manager.
My job takes place at a motion picture studio where commercials, television and movies are filmed. My career has been an adventure in itself! Before changing jobs, my plan was actually to become a Pharmacist.
I have always had a passion for travel, adventure and the outdoors. I can’t say where it all started other than that I was born with an adventurous spirit. I’m an avid hiker and have recently started cycling as well. There is nothing like the beauty of mother nature to make one feel alive again!
Visiting Lassen Volcanic National Park in June
I was invited to Lassen Volcanic National Park by my friend Cynthia. She is a passionate traveler, fellow hiker and super planner! She puts together 99% of my trips and is an extraordinary human with endless amounts of energy. We bonded over our love of hiking and photography. Cynthia puts together several trips a year, most involve hiking and camping in national parks.
We visited Lassen Volcanic National Park in early June of this year. Initially we were worried that the main road through the national park would still be closed due to snow, but everything was okay. Always remember to visit the national parks website frequently during the planning phase of your trip. There you will find important info regarding road and trail closures.
Lassen is an underrated place in my opinion. The entire park and surrounding areas are stunning! My favorite hikes were the Subway Cave Trail and Cinder Cone Nature Trail with four miles added around Butte Lake. I also loved hiking to Terminal Geyser followed by Boiling Springs Lake and Devil’s Kitchen. All of these places were spectacular!
Not only was it serene and beautiful, but just the geological nature of it all took my breath away. I guess this is the nerd in me showing now! What really made these hikes stand out was when an incredible blonde-colored black bear sauntered across the trail right in front of me. I was speechless.
The bear paid no attention to me as he was en-route to a fawn (deer) den. Sadly, he grabbed one of the fawns right before our eyes. Chaos amongst the adult deers ensued, but it was the most extraordinary scene to witness.
Best Hikes of Lassen Volcanic National Park
Lassen is home to fumaroles, wildflowers blooming during certain times of the year, mountain lakes and many volcanoes. I highly recommend researching each hike at the park and then choosing what best fits your abilities and interests. Below you will find the best hikes at Lassen.
The Hikes I did at Lassen Volcanic National Park:
- Subway Cave Trail
- Cinder Cone Nature Trail and Four Miles added around Butte Lake
- Terminal Geyser & Boiling Springs Lake
- Devils’ Kitchen Trail
Depending on snow conditions and advice from Rangers you can also choose either Plan A (Northwest Park) or Plan B (Central Park):
Plan A (Northwest)
Plan B (Central Park)
Accommodation Near the Park
We had a site at Lost Creek Group Campground but I decided to stay at the Best Western right outside the park. There is also accommodation closer to the park such as The Village at Childs Meadow which has nice views.
If you want more upscale lodging then the Highlands Ranch Resort is a lovely spot to stay for a few nights. There is a fantastic restaurant on site with absolutely stunning views. We enjoyed dinner there three times!
Need to Know Before you Go
Hikers to Lassen Volcanic National Park should always practice Leave No Trace principles, just as they should at any other national park. If you pack it in, please pack it out! McArthur-Burney Falls Memorial State Park is only 45 minutes from Lassen. It’s a wonderful park that hosts a massive 129 foot cascading waterfall. I recommend visiting this park on your trip to Lassen.
