01
Best lakeside classic
Lake Almanor Recreation Trail
Lake Almanor West Shore • Lakeside Multi-Use Path • Best Lakefront Walk
A gently rolling paved and gravel path that traces the west shore of Lake Almanor with constant water views and easy access points.
If you want a low-key outing that still feels scenic, this is the go-to trail locals recommend first. Short spurs from the highway make it easy to hike just a segment, with picnic pullouts and swim spots scattered along the way. Early mornings and evenings are especially good for glassy water, birdlife, and alpenglow on the surrounding ridges.
02
Laid-back forest spin
Almanor Rail Trail
Hamilton Branch And East Shore • Forest Rail-Trail • Most Relaxed Outing
An easy grade former railroad corridor that threads through tall pines and meadows just inland from the east side of Lake Almanor.
Starting near Hamilton Branch, this trail lets you settle into a steady, gentle walk without much elevation change. The broad tread works well for mixed groups, from casual walkers to kids on bikes, and there are plenty of spots to pause in the shade. It is a good choice on warm summer days when you want forest cover and a quiet, car-free route.
03
Signature geothermal ramble
Bumpass Hell Trail
Lassen Volcanic Np – Southwest Entrance • Geothermal Boardwalk Hike • Signature Geothermal Hike
A moderate alpine walk to steaming vents, boiling pools, and boardwalks that showcase the geothermal heart of Lassen.
From the trailhead off the park highway, the path climbs gently over open ridges with wide views before dropping into the Bumpass Hell basin. The boardwalk loop winds safely through a landscape of bubbling mudpots and bright mineral pools that feels far wilder than the mileage suggests. Aim for a clear morning to catch both the geothermal show and long vistas back toward the Lake Almanor country.
04
Big-view summit day
Lassen Peak Trail
Lassen Volcanic Np – Main Peak Area • Strenuous Volcanic Summit Climb • Iconic Summit Challenge
A steep, switchbacking climb up cindery slopes to the 10,457-foot summit of Lassen Peak, with sweeping views over the Southern Cascades.
This is the trail to pick when you want a proper workout and a true summit experience within a short drive of Hamilton Branch. The route is well-graded but unrelenting, with loose rock underfoot and exposure to sun and wind, so it rewards an early start and steady pace. From the top, on a clear day you can trace the rim of Lake Almanor, spot other Cascade peaks, and get a bird's-eye look at the volcanic terrain that defines the region.
05
Waterfall crowd-pleaser
Kings Creek Falls Trail
Lassen Volcanic Np – Kings Creek Corridor • Creekside Waterfall Trail • Top Waterfall Trip
A moderate forest and meadow hike that follows Kings Creek to a dramatic multi-tiered waterfall tucked into a rocky gorge.
This trail balances effort and reward nicely, making it a favorite for visitors who want a classic Lassen hike without the demands of a summit. The route passes through open meadows and shaded forest before narrowing alongside the creek, where side views of cascades build anticipation for the main falls. Go early in the season for peak flow, and linger at the viewpoints to cool off in the mist before looping back to the trailhead.