• Lassen Peak from Hat Creek

    Lassen Volcanic

    National Park California

Stargazing & Astronomy

Visitors view a solar eclipse from the Devastated Area
Visitors observe a solar eclipse from the Devastated Area
Shanda Ochs, NPS Photo
 
Lassen Astronomy poster, "See the Milky Way"

Half the park is after dark! From animals to plants and water to volcanoes, Lassen Volcanic National Park protects many different natural phenomena. One of the most spectacular is frequently overlooked -- our incredible, dark, night sky. Lassen Volcanic is one of the best places to learn about and enjoy the splendor of the night sky. Far from the light pollution of civilization, Lassen is one of the last sanctuaries of natural darkness. Whether you have yet to experience the grandeur of the Milky Way, or you are a dedicated amateur astronomer, Lassen's dark skies offer unparalleled view of the celestial wonders. Experience Lassen after dark:

  • Attend a Starry Night ranger-led program at various locations throughout the park
  • Join us for Lassen's first Dark Sky Festival, August 9 through 11
  • Pick-up a night sky viewing book or sky chart from the Lassen Association bookstore, and explore the night skies on your own
 
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Lassen Dark Sky Festival
August 9 through 11
Join park rangers, astronomers, and planetary geologists in celebrating all that is out of this world during Lassen's Dark Sky Festival. Special programs, presentations, hikes, and Junior Ranger Night Explorer activities will be offered during the festival.

Highlights Include:

 

Starry Nights Ranger-led Program
June 28 through August 11
Join a park ranger for a program on stars, planets, and constellations. Hear stories and learn to locate objects in the sky. Dress warmly, night-time temperatures vary between 30 and 50 degrees F in the high elevations of the park.
Wednesdays - 9 p.m. Devastated Area

Did You Know?

View of devastated area from Main Park Road.

The 29 mile Main Park Road was constructed between 1925 and 1931, just 10 years after Lassen Peak erupted. Near Lassen Peak the road reaches 8512 feet, making it the highest road in the Cascade Mountains. It is not unusual for 40 feet of snow to accumulate on the road near Lake Helen.