01
Best close-to-town walk
Mountain Meadows Gateway Preserve
Westwood • Open Meadow And Wetlands Walk • Best For Quick Nature Breaks
A short, gentle wander just outside Westwood with big-sky views over Mountain Meadows Reservoir.
This small preserve sits at the edge of town, but once you pass the gate it feels surprisingly remote, with open fields, willows, and waterfowl cruising the reservoir below. It’s an easy, mostly level stroll on old roads and paths, good for stretching your legs at sunrise or after work. Bring binoculars if you like birding and expect minimal signage—this spot still feels delightfully low-key.
02
Biggest local loop
Mountain Meadow Reservoir Loop
Mountain Meadows Reservoir • Long Lakeside Loop On Dirt Roads And Trails • Best For All-Day Rambles
A full circumnavigation of Mountain Meadow Reservoir that strings together quiet dirt roads, levees, and shoreline paths.
Strong hikers can trace nearly the entire reservoir, getting a mix of open water views, marshy coves, and piney stretches above the shore. The route is more of a patchwork than a formal trail, so expect rough sections, occasional mud, and the need to pay attention at junctions. Go prepared with plenty of water and daylight and you’re rewarded with solitude and a real sense of the local landscape.
03
Most versatile lakeside path
Lake Almanor Recreation Trail
West Shore Of Lake Almanor • Forested Lakeside Path • Best For Relaxed Family Hikes
A mostly gentle trail weaving through shady forest with regular peeks at Lake Almanor and distant Lassen.
Running along the west shore, this wide, well-graded path is ideal if you want something scenic without big climbs. You can choose a short out-and-back from any trailhead or commit to a longer stretch, with picnic pullouts and lake access along the way. It’s a good pick for mixed groups, strollers with bigger wheels, and anyone easing into the local elevation.
04
Classic summit challenge
Lassen Peak Trail
Lassen Volcanic National Park – Lassen Peak Trailhead • High-Country Summit Hike • Iconic Peak-Bagging Option
A steep but straightforward climb to the summit of Lassen Peak with sweeping views over the park and the northern Sierra.
From the high trailhead on the park highway, switchbacks carry you quickly above treeline onto Lassen’s broad cinder and talus slopes. The air is thin and the grade steady, but the payoff is a true summit experience and a 360-degree vista that puts Mountain Meadows, Lake Almanor, and distant ranges in perspective. Start early for cooler temperatures, and be ready for lingering snow early in the season.
05
Best geothermal showcase
Bumpass Hell Trail
Lassen Volcanic National Park – Bumpass Hell Area • Geothermal Basin Hike • Best Intro To Lassen’S Volcanic Side
A moderate, family-friendly hike to boardwalks winding through boiling pools, steaming vents, and pastel mineral terraces.
The trail undulates across open slopes with big mountain views before dropping into the Bumpass Hell basin, where the sulfur smell and hissing steam feel otherworldly. Boardwalks keep you safely above the hot ground while you explore the heart of Lassen’s hydrothermal activity. It’s an easy add-on to a day trip from Mountain Meadows and pairs well with a lakeside stroll on your way back.