Top 10 Things to Know About Visiting LassenThe 30-mile park highway contains many of the most popular viewpoints and destinations in the park. Looking for something off the beaten path? There are no guardrails on the historic highway. Observe posted speed limits and use pullouts to watch wildlife, take pictures, and let other cars pass. Be prepared to share the road with bicyclists. Don't be surprised if you can't receive calls or texts in the park and the surrounding area. WiFi is available only at the Kohm Yah-mah-nee Visitor Center. The NPS app allows users to download park-specific information for offline use, including maps, things to do, and accessibility information. Make sure you download the app and save Lassen Volcanic National Park for offline use before arriving at the park. Loomis Plaza, Bumpass Hell, and Kings Creek Fall parking areas tend to fill between 9am – 3pm. Plan to visit these areas earlier or later in the day to snag a spot. Did you know Lassen has over 150 miles of hiking trail? Consider alternate trails during the park’s busy season. Learn more about day hiking at Lassen. The park's elevation ranges from 5,650 to 10,457 feet above sea level. While visitors with pre-existing medical conditions are at higher risk of altitude sickness, anyone can feel symptoms. All visitors should be prepared to descend immediately if experiencing symptoms like headache, dizziness, shortness of breath, confusion, pain behind the eyes, and/or nausea. Besides general park safety concerns, visitors have also been severely injured by hiking off trail in hydrothermal areas. Learn more about hydrothermal area safety. Do your part to help protect the park by following Leave No Trace principles during your visit. Camping in developed campgrounds requires reservations through recreation.gov. Backpacking requires a permit, also through recreation.gov. Black bears and mountain lions live here, even if they aren’t always seen here. Bears tend to interact with visitors the most, so protect yourself and the park’s bears by learning about black bear safety. Don’t approach or feed any wildlife at Lassen, including chipmunks and birds! Fill your gas tank in Red Bluff, Redding, Shingletown, or Susanville before traveling to the park. There may be gas available during the summer at the Manzanita Lake Camper store near the park’s northwest entrance. Learn more about goods and services in and near the park. Pets are welcome in developed areas in the park including parking areas, roads, campgrounds, and picnic areas. Pets are prohibited in all other areas to protect the park including the rare Sierra Nevada red fox, one of which was killed by a dog in the park. Learn more about visiting Lassen Volcanic with your pet. No, seriously, the park gets 30+ feet of snow every year. Roads, trails, and many other features are buried a good chunk of the year. Learn more about visiting in winter. |
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Plan By Season
What's available in each season?
Operating Hours & SeasonsAvailable services and hours vary by season. See typical operating dates for park facilities and explore park offerings by season. 
Visiting in WinterWinter is a season of snow and solitude. Vehicle access is limited, but over-the-snow adventure is seemingly endless. 
Visiting in SpringWhile flowers are blooming at lower elevations, there is still a lot of snow in the park. Planning ahead can ensure an enjoyable visit. 
We See Planning in the Forecast
WeatherFind specific forecast information for different parts of the park and related links. Plan by Topic
Get Oriented!
Inclusive & Welcoming
Accessibility InformationInformation about accessible park facilities, programs, and activities. 
calling all bark rangers
Visiting with PetsVisiting the park with your pet(s)? Learn where pets are permitted and why some areas are restricted to take pets. 
Know Before You Go!
Park Alerts & ConditionsView current park conditions, including closures, alerts, and hazards. |
Last updated: October 6, 2024