Mount Lassen
The largest volcano dome in the world, reaching 10,457 feet at the end of a 5 mile hike.
Lassen Volcanic National Park has many amazing attractions from the vast forests, hydrothermal features and the mountainous landscapes. The park is a truly amazing place, worth a visit. While approaching and driving through the park, Mount Lassen will be towering in the distance. On the drive there you can enjoy the phenomenal views.
While there are many attractions at the park, the most prominent feature is Mount Lassen.
This mountain towers 10,457 feet into the air and is absolutely stunning. At the time that we visited it was the one of the only peaks with snow left on it, so it was glowing in comparison to the rest of the park. It is possibly one of Lassen’s best features, taking it’s name after the park. After hearing that it’s the most prominent feature in Lassen Volcanic National Park, you might be thinking: I want to hike to the top. This is something I would strongly recommend doing if you are up for the task. Although a relatively short hike at 5 miles round trip, it should not be underestimated. With the 2,000 feet of elevation gain over a short distance and altitude, this hike is difficult. It is one of the steepest hikes I’ve done and has some exposure to mountain edges towards the top. If there is snow on the mountain the climb becomes slightly more difficult, especially towards the top. The hike finishes with a bit of a scramble the the highest point. However, if you take your time, stop when needed and are careful, this hike can be done by almost anyone. When my friends and I summited we found a dad with his two kids, both under 12 years old and a man who’s 60th birthday was that day. So you shouldn’t let any arbitrary reason prevent you from making it to the top!
Although it might be difficult the hike is well worth the effort. Finishing at 10,457 feet, this is the highest mountain I’ve climbed and the view stacked up as one of the best. You can see all of Lassen Volcanic National Park and if you turn around can even see Mount Shasta 100 miles in the distance. This panoramic view makes the top a great place to stop for lunch or a snack.
It’s safe to say that this is one of my favorite hikes, the ascent is difficult but short, the views are amazing, you break 10,000 feet and can do it in 3–5 hours.
