01
Best lakefront classic
Lake Almanor Recreation Trail
West Shore Of Lake Almanor • Easy Lakeside Multi-Use Path • Best Family-Friendly Stroll
Gentle, mostly level trail tracing the west shore with wide lake views and cool, shady forest stretches.
If you only have time for one local walk, this paved and hard-packed path is the go-to way to stretch your legs along the water. Multiple access points near campgrounds and pullouts make it easy to do a short out-and-back or link up a longer ride or hike. Go early or near sunset for quieter miles, softer light on the lake, and a decent chance of spotting osprey or bald eagles working the shoreline.
02
Iconic summit hike
Lassen Peak Trail
Lassen Volcanic National Park – Summit Area • Rocky High-Alpine Climb • Iconic Summit Challenge
A steep but straightforward switchback climb to one of Northern California’s most panoramic, volcano-top viewpoints.
From the summit parking area, the trail wastes little time gaining elevation as it zigzags up the broad shoulder of Lassen Peak. Expect thin air, loose rock in spots, and sweeping views back toward Lake Almanor, the park’s crater lakes, and distant Sierra ridges. Start early on clear summer mornings to beat the afternoon thunderstorms and give yourself time to linger on top.
03
Best long half-day outing
Brokeoff Mountain Trail
Lassen Volcanic National Park – Southwest Entrance • Steep Forest And Ridge Hike • Big-View Workout
A longer, quieter climb that trades crowds for forests, wildflower meadows, and a knockout summit panorama.
Starting near the park’s southwest entrance, this trail eases through mixed forest before tilting upward in earnest toward open slopes and rocky ridges. The upper miles are a steady workout, but the reward is a broad summit with a dramatic angle on Lassen Peak and the surrounding volcanic landscape. It is a smart pick for strong hikers who want a big-feeling objective without the bustle of Lassen’s main summit trail.
04
Most dramatic short hike
Bumpass Hell Trail
Lassen Volcanic National Park – Main Park Road • Geothermal Boardwalk Hike • Best For Geology Lovers
A relatively short walk that delivers steaming vents, boiling pools, and sulfur-scented mud pots on a well-built boardwalk.
This popular trail undulates gently from a high roadside pullout to the edge of the park’s largest hydrothermal basin. From there, boardwalks thread safely between hissing fumaroles and churning pools, with plenty of interpretive signs to explain what you are seeing. Go on a cool day or earlier in the morning, as the exposed sections can feel hot and the sulfur smell is stronger when the air is still.
05
Most otherworldly hike
Cinder Cone Trail
Lassen Volcanic National Park – Butte Lake Area • Volcanic Cone And Lava Field Trek • Most Unique Landscape
A short, very steep grind up loose cinders that pays off with crater-top views over the Painted Dunes and lava beds.
From the Butte Lake area, the route starts quietly through open forest before confronting you with a straight-up climb on deep volcanic gravel. The footing is demanding, but each step gains big vertical, and the crest of the cone feels like stepping onto another planet. Walk the rim for shifting perspectives on the Painted Dunes, the Fantastic Lava Beds, and the broader Lassen high country before carefully descending the same loose slope.