At the heart of the visiting area of the park is Manzanita Lake (Spanish for “little apple”). The lake is the most popular in the park and is great for swimming and kayaking. It can also be used for catch-and-release fishing in non-motorized boats. There are also campgrounds in the area and a camp store for essentials. Also, be sure to check out the easy Manzanita Lake Trail. It’s less than two miles long with very little elevation change. On the way, you can see different views of the lake and Lassen Peak. The area is a great jumping-off point for those who want some civilization and a fun place to camp before exploring the rest of the park.

Bumpass Hell is the largest geothermal area in the park. It’s 16 acres of boiling mud pots and steam vents. It’s a unique experience that’s a living monument to the park’s continuing volcanic activity. The trail around the area is about three miles long and will bring you as close as you want to get to the area. You’ll also notice the pervasive smell of sulfur, similar to rotten eggs. You’ll also notice the sounds of the geothermal activity happening in the area. The trail is only open in the summer and early fall. You’ll want to get there early as it can get busy later in the day. You should also check with the park about the availability, as it was recently closed due to the effects of a wildfire.

For those able, no trip to Lassen Volcanic National Park is complete without ascending the Lassen Peak Trail. The trail will take you to the top of Mount Lassen, located at 10,457 feet (3,187 meters). At about 5 miles long, the end of the trail is a steep climb that will finish off the total ascent of nearly 2,000 feet. It’s only for those who are prepared for the rigorous ending. At the top, you’ll be on an active volcano with unobstructed views of the park and surrounding mountains. You can continue to the summit or check out the interior of the crater. The trail is very popular, so you’ll want to plan accordingly. Also, the parking area is often closed in the winter, so you’ll need to add another six miles or so if you want to hike in the winter.