01
Best overall pick
Lake Almanor Recreation Trail
West Shore Of Lake Almanor • Lakeside Paved And Packed-Dirt Multi-Use Path • Best For Relaxed Mileage And Lake Views
A gently rolling shoreline trail with big Almanor views and easy access from Chester.
This 12-mile out-and-back skirts the west shore of Lake Almanor, giving you constant views of sparkling water and, on clear days, Lassen Peak on the horizon. It’s mostly gentle, with a mix of pavement and compacted dirt, so walkers, casual hikers, and cyclists all feel at home here. Pick a short segment for a sunset stroll or commit to a longer stretch for a quiet half-day along the lake.
02
Big-view summit
Brokeoff Mountain Trail
Lassen Volcanic Np – Southwest Entrance • Strenuous Alpine Summit Hike • Best For Strong Hikers Chasing Views
A demanding climb that rewards you with one of the best panoramic views in the Lassen region.
Starting near the park’s southwest entrance, the Brokeoff Mountain Trail climbs steadily through forest, meadows, and rocky slopes to a dramatic summit. The grade is persistent and the elevation gain significant, but you’re treated to wildflowers in early summer and sweeping views of Lassen Peak, Lake Almanor, and the distant ranges from the top. Go early for cooler temps, more solitude, and a better chance at afternoon storm-free skies.
03
Geothermal must-do
Bumpass Hell Trail
Lassen Volcanic Np – Bumpass Hell Area • Boardwalk Hike To Hydrothermal Basin • Best For First-Time Park Visitors
A short, scenic hike to bubbling mud pots, steaming vents, and sulfur pools on an elevated boardwalk.
Bumpass Hell is the classic Lassen hike if you want a taste of the park’s volcanic personality without committing to a huge day. The trail undulates along a ridge before dropping into a boardwalk network over boiling springs and hissing fumaroles, with interpretive signs explaining the geology. Expect cooler temperatures and lingering snow early in the season, and check access before you go, as this one typically opens later than lower-elevation routes.
04
Iconic volcano hike
Cinder Cone Trail at Butte Lake
Lassen Volcanic Np – Butte Lake • Steep Volcanic Cinder Climb • Best For Unique Terrain And Photography
A short but steep slog up loose cinders to a summit crater with sweeping views over the Painted Dunes and lava beds.
From the Butte Lake area, this trail starts innocently enough before turning into a calf-burning ascent on deep, shifting volcanic cinders. At the top, you can peer into the crater, walk the rim, and gaze out over the surreal Painted Dunes and black lava flows stretching toward the horizon. The open, treeless terrain means big views but also full sun, so an early start and plenty of water make the experience much more enjoyable.
05
Quiet geothermal loop
Boiling Springs Lake and Devils Kitchen Trails
Lassen Volcanic Np – Warner Valley • Forest And Meadow Hike With Hot-Springs Features • Best For A Mellow Half-Day Outing
A moderate forest-and-meadow hike linking steamy pools, a milky-hot lake, and active vents in a quieter corner of the park.
From Warner Valley, you can hike to Boiling Springs Lake, a pastel, steaming lake with bubbling edges, then continue on to the Devils Kitchen area with its gurgling mud pots and sulfur vents. The grades are generally moderate, and the route winds through shady forest and open meadows, making it a pleasant choice on warm days. It’s a great option when you want classic Lassen geothermal scenery with fewer crowds than the Bumpass Hell boardwalk typically draws.