Lassen Volcanic National Park Road Closed for Winter Season

Date: November 14, 2006
Contact: Karen Haner, 530-595-4444 x5101

Lassen Volcanic National Park Road Closed for Winter Season

Superintendent Mary G. Martin announced today that the main park road through Lassen Volcanic National Park is officially closed for the winter season.  “The recent storms have brought enough snow and icy conditions that it is no longer safe for the park’s road crew to keep the road clear,” said Martin.  The park road is closed at the Loomis Ranger Station on the north side and at the Southwest Campground/Parking Area on the south side.   Heated restrooms and water are available at the Loomis Ranger Station.  Water is not available at the Southwest Campground/Parking Area but vault toilets are accessible.

The park is open throughout the winter and is a wonderful time of year to experience a different, quieter side of the park.  There will soon be excellent opportunities to ski and snowshoe.  Ranger-led snowshoe walks will be offered to the public near the Southwest Entrance on Saturdays from January 6 through April 7.

Visitors need to prepare for winter conditions. Dress in layers to adjust for conditions.  Carry extra blankets, food, drinking water, a shovel, and tire chains in your vehicle.  Since weather can change quickly at these elevations, be prepared to spend the night in your vehicle, if necessary.  Day-use visitors need to self register at the Loomis Ranger Station or at the Southwest Information Station. Overnight visitors are required to obtain a wilderness permit before entering the backcountry.

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 [phone], 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-