Lassen Peak
Shasta County, California
Details
Distance
4.66 miles
Elevation Gain
1936 ft
Route Type
Out-and-Back
Description
Added by John Smith
Lassen Peak sits at 10,462ft. in Lassen Volcanic National Park, California. The out-and-back trail to the peak gains almost 2,000 feet, leading to breathtaking vistas.
One of my personal favorites and a hidden gem of California that keeps circling my mind is the Lassen Peak Trail. Don't let the trail map (2.5 miles one way) deceive you and make you think this is a short trail. The elevation gain is is 2000 feet from the parking lot to the end of the peak. The air is very thin so, it's best to take your time. The trail hike and switch backs are made worth it by the views and on a clear day, you can see Mt. Shasta on the north side of the peak. I've learned that hiking in the heat of the day was not the best idea since shade-cover is very limited, but definitely worth brining a hat and sunglasses. You'll also be greeted by the smell of rotten eggs since Lassen Peak is an active volcano, but remains dormant.
Fun history, it erupted between 1914 and 1917. So if you want to feel the adrenaline rush of hiking on an active volcano, this trail is the place to go. Also highly recommend going there at night to catch the stars. Lassen Peak is surrounded by campgrounds nearby so it's best to check with the rangers at the gate to see which campgrounds have availability.
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Lassen Peak Reviews
This was a fun trail, it’s a pretty good incline the whole way but the switchbacks make it feel more manageable. Lots of good signage about Lassen Peak and the area, some even list the distance-to-summit which is helpful. Aside from the occasional scree/gravel, the trail was in great shape and accommodating young and old alike. Easier than Brokeoff Mtn but also significantly more traveled.
4.0
The Lassen Peak Summit Trail is a popular destination year-round for all ages and abilities. The wide, smooth path makes it ideal for large groups or runners, and no matter the season, weather, or wildfire conditions, you're sure to enjoy spectacular views from the top. As others have commented, arrive early to avoid crowds!
5.0
Caught the sunrise at the top. Absolutely beautiful. One of my favorite parks with great reflective water. Snow on top year round. Get there early as the trail gets crowded even by 8:40am.
5.0
On a recent drive back from California I decided to hit up Lassen Volcanic since I had never been there before. Short on time and craving some cardio I settled on hiking to the summit of the peak. The trail is well-graded and easy with sweeping views of Mt. Shasta and Northern California. I expect on a clear day you could see well into Nevada and Oregon as well. It took my party about 2:15 round-trip with a 40 minute lunch on the summit. As of July 26th, 2016 a scenic swarm of California Tortoiseshell Butterflies can be found on the summit and the flanks of the peak. Get after it!
4.0
Easy hike with great views. Takes about an hour and half-2 if you don't stop. Bring skies. You can still ski down in summer.
4.0
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