Lassen Peak is a 4.6 mile moderately trafficked out and back trail located near Old Station, California that features a lake and is rated as moderate. The trail offers a number of activity options and is best used from June until September.
backpacking
camping
hiking
nature trips
rock climbing
trail running
walking
cross country skiing
forest
lake
hot springs
river
views
wildlife
rocky
snow
no dogs
Tackle the highest peak in Lassen Volcanic National Park and stand atop an active volcano. Located four hours north east of San Francisco this Northern California park might be a little out of the way, but it's a prime destination for seekers of tranquility and those with even just a passing interest in geology. 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. Starting at the parking lot in Lassen National Park, this popular trail makes a steep climb to the summit of Lassen Peak. The hike can be difficult, but the views are well worth the effort. It is truly a worth-while adventure to the top of an active volcano. On the main road through Lassen National Park, a parking lot at the trailhead marks the beginning of the journey. The trail starts at 8500 feet in elevation, and ascend quickly. The high altitude in combination with the steep ascent can make this hike difficult, but the trail is relatively short, a mere 2.5 miles in each direction. There no trees to shade the hike, so be prepared for direct sunlight the entire trip. The trail remains a popular destination, because of its spectacular views, and the bragging rights of climbing this active volcano.
The best hike I’ve ever done
My friends and I loved this hike! We are all in relatively good shape and although it was only a 5 mile hike, it was still pretty challenging. Definitely well worth all the views though! There was still snow on lots of the peaks and great views of many lakes and peaks in the distance. Make sure to bring a jacket! We started the hike with clear blue skies and rain on the way down the peak.
The last half a mile was strenuous. Take a lot of water.
Hard finding the trail on the last couple hundred feet to the top. Looks like people have made there own trail which made it confusing.
Hike to the peak today. Smoky going up. Fairly easy hike !
i suppose this could be considered a moderate hike, because you die so bad on the way up that the way down feels like a dream. Loved every second can't wait to go again
>8000 feet elevation and elevation gain on this trail make the hike strenuous. There is a bit of a steep, rocky climb at the end to reach the peak. The views are spectacular on the entire trail. The trail goes above the tree line so there is little to no shade for a significant portion of the trail. The trail is very well maintained, but I would recommend hiking poles for the steep, rocky areas and for the snowy areas. There was snow at the top of the climb in late August.
definitely worth doing once. already planning on doing it again.