01
Best close-to-town stroll
Eagle Lake Recreation Area Lakeshore Trails
Eagle Lake West Shore Near Stones Landing • Relaxed Lakeside Paths And Beach Walks • Closest Option To Stones Landing
Easy lakeside walking with big-sky views right outside Stones Landing.
If you want to stretch your legs without a long drive, the informal paths and shoreline roads along Eagle Lake are the go-to choice. You get long views across the water, scattered pines, and plenty of spots to duck down to the shore for birdwatching or a quick swim in warm weather. Go early or near sunset for calm winds and glassy reflections on the lake.
02
Best long, mellow day out
Bizz Johnson National Recreation Trail
Between Susanville And Westwood • River Canyon Rail-Trail • Best For Easy Mileage And Biking Options
A converted railroad grade following the Susan River, ideal for relaxed hiking, running, or bike days.
This gravel trail rolls gently through a forested canyon, crossing old trestle bridges and passing through tunnels carved into the rock. You can choose your own distance by starting from one of several access points near Susanville or Westwood, making it just as suitable for a casual hour-long stroll as a big out-and-back adventure. In fall, the cottonwoods along the river light up with color and the canyon feels especially scenic.
03
Best family-friendly hike
Manzanita Lake Loop
Lassen Volcanic Np Northwest Entrance • Gentle Lakeside Nature Loop • Best For Beginners And Casual Walkers
A flat loop around a clear mountain lake with postcard views of Lassen Peak.
At the northwest entrance of Lassen Volcanic National Park, this well-marked loop circles Manzanita Lake with almost no elevation gain. The trail weaves through pines and marshy inlets, with constant reflections of Lassen Peak and frequent chances to spot ducks, osprey, and the occasional deer. Pack a picnic and extra time—between the short drive from Stones Landing and the low effort, it’s an easy half-day outing for mixed-ability groups.
04
Best geothermal experience
Bumpass Hell Trail
Lassen Volcanic Np High Country • Geothermal Boardwalk And Ridge Hike • Best For Unique Volcanic Scenery
A classic Lassen hike leading to bubbling mud pots, fumaroles, and steaming pools on a sturdy boardwalk.
Starting from a high pass along the park highway, this trail follows a ridgeline with wide views before dropping into the Bumpass Hell basin. The boardwalk takes you safely through a landscape of hissing vents, sulfur-scented steam, and milky blue pools that feels more like Iceland than Northern California. The moderate climb on the way back makes it feel like a real hike without being overly demanding for reasonably fit walkers.
05
Best summit adventure
Cinder Cone and Fantastic Lava Beds
Lassen Volcanic Np Butte Lake Area • Steep Volcanic Cone And Lava-Field Hike • Best For Strong Hikers And Big Views
A leg-burning climb up a black cinder cone with sweeping views over lava fields and jewel-toned lakes.
From the quiet Butte Lake entrance, a sandy forest path leads to the base of a perfectly shaped volcanic cone, then turns straight up its loose, ashy slope. The climb is demanding but short, and the payoff is a 360-degree panorama over the Fantastic Lava Beds, the Painted Dunes, and the broader Lassen landscape. Walk the rim or drop carefully into the crater for an up-close look at the geology before retracing your steps to the lake.