Lassen Volcanic National Park

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Lassen Volcanic National Park

Beneath Lassen Volcanic's peaceful forests and gem-like lakes lies evidence of a turbulent and fiery past. 600,000 years ago, the collision and warping of continental plates led to violent eruptions and the formation of lofty Mt. Tehama (also called Brokeoff Volcano.) After 200,000 years of volcanic activity, vents and smaller volcanoes on Tehama's flanks-including Lassen Peak-drew magma away from the main cone. Hydrothermal areas ate away at the great mountain's bulk. Beneath the onslaught of Ice Age glaciers, Mt. Tehama crumbled and finally ceased to exist. But the volcanic landscape lived on: in 1914, Lassen Peak awoke. The Peak had its most significant activity in 1915 and minor activity through 1921. Lassen Volcanic became a national park in 1916 because of its significance as an active volcanic landscape. All four types of volcanoes in the world are found in the park. Over 150 miles of trails and a culturally significant scenic highway provide access to volcanic wonders including steam vents, mudpots, boiling pools, volcanic peaks, and painted dunes.

IN DEPTH

Frequently Asked Questions Didn't the Lassen Chalet used to be part of a commercial ski area? The Chalet at Lassen Volcanic National Park was built in 1970. It was originally designed to support...read more

Natural World Nature & Science Although Lassen is primarily known for its volcanic geology, the park boasts a rich diversity of plant and animal life. Over 700 flowering plant species grace the...read more

Plants At elevations below 6,500 feet the dominant vegetation community is the mixed conifer forest. Ponderosa and Jeffrey pines, sugar pine, and white fir form the forest canopy for this...read more

Animals Lassen Volcanic National Park is home to approximately 300 species of vertebrates, which includes birds, mammals, reptiles, amphibians, and fish. The richness of species is contributed to the...read more

Who's Who at the Park Support Your Park Support Lassen Volcanic National Park by purchasing items in our bookstore run by the Lassen Loomis Museum Association or by volunteering at the park itself. The Lassen...read more

Camping Camping Throughout the summer, approximately half of the park's campsites in four campgrounds can be reserved in advance. An additional four campgrounds are first-come, first-served. All group sites and horse...read more

History Native Americans The Lassen area was a meeting point for at least four American Indian groups: Atsugewi, Yana, Yahi, and Maidu. Because of its weather and snow conditions, generally high...read more

Just For Kids Be A Junior Ranger Kids ages 7-12 can earn a patch while learning to protect resources. You can pick up a Junior Ranger booklet at the Loomis Museum, Southwest Information...read more

Activities & Programs Lassen Volcanic National Park's 106,372 acres provide a wealth of fun activities that are as varied as the seasons of the park. There are over 150...read more

Walking & Hiking Hiking South Park Road Region Mill Creek Falls (moderate, 4.6 miles round trip) (closed summer 2007 due to construction) Brokeoff...read more