Best trails in Lassen National Forest, California

Descend into the dark volcanic underworld of the Subway Cave lava tube for a short yet highly memorable hike. Twenty thousand years ago and just 15 miles north of Lassen Volcanic National Park, the ground broke apart and huge volumes of volcanic rock poured forth to create the enormous expanse that is the Hat Creek Lava Flow. Exposed to the air, the top of the lava flow began to cool and solidify, while molten rock below continued to flow - insulated by the now solid roof and creating lava tubes which carried the red-hot rock miles from its source. Subway Cave is a section of lava tube less than a third of a mile long, located between two areas of ceiling cave-ins. Substantial concrete steps have been constructed at both ends of the cave, providing easy access for all would-be spelunkers.Show more

The Bizz Johnson Rail Trail from Susanville is the longest rail trail in California. It is not that busy because it is fairly remote. The Lassen Land Trust and the BLM organize a shuttle service on Saturdays in June through October. It is a deal at only $3 per person with bike to get a ride to the high elevation end (almost the trail head as you must ride up a quiet country road, A-21, 3 miles to get to the trail head). See www.lassenlandandtrailstrust.or or www.blm.gov/ca/eaglelake for info. It may seem like a lot of miles, but it can go fast as most of it is downhill. There are two long tunnels, but you don't have to have a light as they put reflectors on the walls so you can see you are in the middle even though you can't see the ground. There are a number of bridges, including a long one just above highway 36. Show more

A hike along beautiful Deer Creek. This hike ends at a pool along the creek perfect for a leisurely lunch. In late spring this hike has many wildflowers, but is cool and green and shady.Show more

This is a broad paved path, great for kids learning to ride bikes, with lovely scenery along the water. Accessibility: In the large parking lot by the campground it is unclear if there are any designated handicapped-accessible parking spaces with striped access aisles. The trail surface is paved asphalt, smooth, and typically at least six feet wide. The estimated grade is mostly gentle (all 5% or less).Show more

Adventure through Carter Meadow, to Carter Saddle, then on to the iconic Pacific Crest Trail to Butt Mountain. 360 degree views from the top including Lake Almanor, Lassen Peak and Brokeoff Mountain.Show more

This is mainly an OHV trail that some use for hiking to the firetower.Show more