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Superintendent Darlene M. Koontz announced today that the main park road through Lassen Volcanic National Park is officially closed to vehicle traffic for the winter season. “Recent snow storms have created hazardous conditions where it is no longer safe for the park’s road crew to keep the road clear,” said Koontz. The park road is closed at the Manzanita Lake area on the north side and at the Southwest Parking Area on the south side. Heated restrooms and water are available near the Loomis Ranger Station. Porta-potties without water access are available at the Southwest area. The park is open throughout the winter and is a wonderful time of year to experience a different, quieter side of the park. This year, ranger-led snowshoe walks will be offered to the public in the Manzanita Lake area beginning December 22nd through March 16th at 10:30am or 1:30 pm, weather permitting. Visitors should meet the ranger outside the Loomis Ranger Station and come prepared for a range of winter conditions. Dress in layers, carry food and drinking water. Consider stowing a shovel, extra blankets and tire chains in your vehicle. Day use visitors need to sign in at the Loomis Ranger Station or at the Southwest Information board. Overnight visitors are required to obtain a wilderness permit before entering the backcountry. The Southwest Walk-In Campground will be closed this winter and access to the Southwest Area will be limited until October 2008, when construction of the new Visitor Center is completed. If you are planning on visiting the Southwest area this winter, please watch out for the reconfigured parking area and be prepared to walk a distance from your car to the snow-play hill. The year-round entrance fee at Lassen Volcanic National Park is $10 per vehicle and is valid for seven days. The Annual Park Pass is available for $25 and is valid for a year from the month of purchase. As part of the Federal Lands Recreation Enhancement Act program, the park retains 80% of the fees collected to pay for needed repairs and programs to improve visitor services and facilities. For more information regarding ranger-led programs, wilderness permits and weather and road conditions before your visit, please contact the park at (530) 595-4444, Monday through Friday, except holidays, from 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. or visit the park website at www.nps.gov/lavo. -NPS - |
Last updated: February 28, 2015