High deserts, endless beaches, glaciers, and snowy mountains, is there anything missing in California?
When it comes to landscapes and outdoor escapes, the simple answer is no. The third-largest state in the country truly has it all, even craters and volcanoes waiting to be explored by those who dare.
A mini Yellowstone in the Golden State
Lassen Volcanic National Park sits at the southern end of the Cascade Range in Northern California, where it houses all four major types of volcanoes: shield, composite (also called stratovolcano), cinder cone, and plug dome.
Its iconic peak, the Lassen Peak, is one of the largest plug-dome volcanoes in the world, reaching 10,457 feet in elevation, as NPS explains.
Beyond the magma, hot springs, thick mud-pots and fumaroles (steam and volcanic-gas vents) bubble across the landscape, filled with wildflower meadows, glacial lakes, mountain air.
The world’s biggest plug dome volcano
A plug dome volcano, also called a lava dome, is a steep, rounded volcanic mound formed by the slow eruption of thick, sticky lava that can’t flow far from its vent, as Geography Realm explains. Because the lava is so viscous it resists movement, and it tends to pile up on itself and solidify near the opening of the volcano, gradually building a dome-shaped structure.
While these volcanoes don’t usually produce the massive explosions seen in stratovolcanoes, they can still be dangerous. As the dome grows, parts of it may collapse, unleashing deadly avalanches of fast-moving hot gas and volcanic rock. Lassen Peak, in fact, is the world’s largest volcano of this kind.
Exploring Lassen Volcanic National Park
This surreal spot in NorCal has a lot to offer. As the travel blog California Through My Lens states, one of the main attractions is the many hiking routes. The trails here lead you to shimmering alpine lakes, rumbling geothermal basins, and panoramic peaks.
The crown jewel is the Lassen Peak Trail, a steep but rewarding hike where, on clear days, you can see Mount Shasta looming on the horizon. Other scenic favorites include Kings Creek Falls, Cold Boiling Lake (where trapped gases make the water bubble), and the quieter Sifford Lakes and Devastated Area Trail.
Manzanita Lake and Lake Helen offer perfect picnic spots and reflections of Lassen Peak that look painted onto the water. These roadside stops are ideal for travelers short on time or those easing into the park’s higher altitudes.
What to know before visiting
According to the information provided by NPS, late June through October is prime season, when roads and trails are clear of snow and the geothermal areas are fully accessible. Still, it’s important to be aware that at over 8,000 feet, Lassen’s weather can change fast, with storms and snow flurries possible.
Always check current trail conditions and carry layers, sunscreen, and plenty of water. Geothermal zones are fragile and dangerous off the boardwalks; the ground can be thin with boiling water just below. If you’re inexperienced or are unsure about trails and conditions at the park, it’s always best to simply hire an expert guide or participate in a hiking group with seasoned explorers.