01
Best lakeside stroll
Lake Almanor Recreation Trail
West And South Shores Of Lake Almanor • Paved And Packed-Dirt Lakeside Path Through Mixed Conifer Forest • Best Family-Friendly Option
A gentle multi-mile path tracing Lake Almanor’s shoreline with easy access from the Canyondam side of the lake.
This is the go-to outing when you want big lake views without committing to a strenuous climb. Pick up the trail at one of several pullouts along the west shore and walk as far as you like under tall pines, with frequent glimpses of Mount Lassen across the water. It’s ideal for casual walkers, kids, and anyone easing into the local altitude.
02
Iconic volcanic hike
Bumpass Hell Trail
Lassen Volcanic National Park – Southwest Area • High-Elevation Boardwalk Hike To A Hydrothermal Basin • Classic Day-Hike Pick
A short but unforgettable hike across open ridges to steaming vents, bubbling mudpots, and a wide hydrothermal basin.
From the Bumpass Hell parking area, the trail rolls over open slopes with sweeping views before dropping to a boardwalk network above boiling pools and sulfur vents. It’s not long, but the elevation and exposure make it feel adventurous without being technical. Go early in the day for easier parking and cooler temperatures, and bring layers—weather changes quickly at this altitude.
03
Waterfall favorite
Kings Creek Falls Trail
Lassen Volcanic National Park – Central Plateau • Forest And Meadow Trail To A Cascading Waterfall • Best For Waterfall Seekers
A scenic half-day hike that weaves through meadows and forest to a powerful multi-tiered waterfall dropping into a rocky gorge.
The Kings Creek trail starts in open meadow and mixed forest, then narrows as it follows the creek downstream toward the falls overlook. Along the way you’ll pass smaller cascades and lush sections that stay green well into summer. Expect some rocky steps and modest elevation change, but the payoff at the overlook makes this one of the most rewarding moderate hikes near Canyondam.
04
Best forest escape
Pacific Crest Trail from Domingo Springs
Near Chester, West Of Lake Almanor • Forest Singletrack On A National Scenic Trail • For Thru-Hike Dreamers
A quiet segment of the Pacific Crest Trail that lets you sample classic high-forest walking without committing to a long backpacking trip.
From the Domingo Springs area, you can follow the PCT north or south on well-graded trail through tall pines and occasional lava outcrops. It’s a great place to log a few miles at your own pace, turning around whenever you’re ready while still feeling the rhythm of a long-distance route. Watch for thru-hikers in summer and fall, and pack good bug spray in peak mosquito season.
05
Best mellow mileage
Bizz Johnson National Recreation Trail
Along The Susan River Near Susanville • Graded Rail-Trail Through River Canyon And Tunnels • Scenic Long-Walk Choice
A converted rail corridor following the Susan River, perfect for long, mostly level walks with canyon views and historic tunnels.
You can start from several trailheads near Susanville and hike out-and-back for as many miles as you’d like on crushed gravel. The route follows the river through a broad canyon, passing old railroad trestles, rock walls, and short tunnels that keep the scenery changing. It’s an excellent option for shoulder seasons or breezy summer days when you want distance and scenery without steep climbs.