01
Iconic summit climb
Lassen Peak Trail
Lassen Volcanic National Park – Summit Area • High-Elevation Volcanic Peak Trail • Classic Bucket-List Route
A stout but straightforward climb to the 10,457-foot summit of Lassen Peak with panoramic views in every direction.
From the trailhead off the main park road, the route switchbacks steadily up open slopes, gaining serious elevation over a relatively short distance. Expect thin air, big views of the surrounding volcanoes, and lingering snow early in the season, so sturdy footwear and layers matter. It’s a go-to choice when you want a true “top of the world” experience within easy reach of Manton.
02
Best short geothermal hike
Bumpass Hell Trail
Lassen Volcanic National Park – Southwest Area • Geothermal Boardwalk Hike • Best For First-Time Visitors
A moderate walk to steamy vents, boiling pools, and colorful mudpots, showcasing Lassen’s geothermal side without a huge effort.
Starting near Lake Helen, the trail rolls across subalpine terrain before dropping into a dramatic hydrothermal basin. Boardwalks wind through hissing fumaroles and hot springs, with plenty of signage to explain what you’re seeing. It’s an ideal introduction to the park’s geology and a great leg-stretcher on the way up from Manton.
03
Challenging peak with fewer crowds
Brokeoff Mountain Trail
Lassen Volcanic National Park – Southwest Boundary • Forest And Ridge Summit Hike • Scenic Workout Route
A demanding out-and-back that climbs through forest and meadows to a rocky summit with sweeping views back toward Lassen Peak.
This trail feels wilder than the main-park-road hikes, with long stretches of quiet forest and open meadows before you gain the final ridge. The climb is sustained but varied, making it a rewarding workout for experienced hikers who want big scenery without the summit crowds. On clear days you can see deep into the southern Cascades and across the Sacramento Valley toward Manton’s foothills.
04
Relaxed lakeside loop
Manzanita Lake Loop
Lassen Volcanic National Park – Northwest Entrance • Easy Shoreline Nature Trail • Best For Families And Beginners
A mostly flat loop circling Manzanita Lake with postcard views of Lassen Peak reflected in the water.
The path hugs the lakeshore, weaving through pines and meadows with frequent stopping points and benches along the way. It’s short, gentle, and packed with scenery, making it perfect for kids, multi-generational groups, or a low-key evening walk after driving up from Manton. Bring binoculars—this is one of the better spots in the area for birdwatching and spotting trout cruising the shallows.
05
Most otherworldly landscape
Cinder Cone and Painted Dunes
Lassen Volcanic National Park – Butte Lake Area • Remote Volcanic Cone And Lava Field Hike • Best For Adventurous Hikers
A sandy climb up a perfect cinder cone with sweeping views over the Painted Dunes and lava flows.
From the Butte Lake trailhead, the route follows soft volcanic sand before attacking the steep flanks of Cinder Cone itself. The payoff is a 360-degree panorama that feels more like another planet than Northern California, with rust-colored dunes and jagged black lava stretching to the horizon. It’s a bit farther from Manton than other options, but the unique terrain makes it a standout day trip for hikers who don’t mind a grind.