The Best Lassen Volcanic National Park Trails for Hiking

Lassen’s trail system highlights the park’s unique mix of volcanic terrain, meadows, alpine lakes, waterfalls, and geothermal activity. One highlight of Lassen Volcanic National Park is Paradise Meadows. The lush meadows, wildflowers, and crystal-clear creek make this area a peaceful gem between Lassen and Reading Peaks.

Beginning at Hat Lake, Paradise Meadows Trail is a moderate hike, just under three miles, winding up to a lush subalpine meadow. In the early fall, you might spot some lingering wildflowers, while cottonwoods and aspens in the area provide some of the best changes for fall colors in Lassen Volcanic National Park. 

The trail offers a mix of forested paths and open stretches with views of Lassen Peak. It’s not as heavily trafficked as Bumpass Hell or Lassen Peak; hikers find it quieter, making it a perfect place to photograph Northern California fall foliage or picnic in the Paradise Meadows. The trail follows Hat Creek, expect a steady climb through a ravine with small waterfalls.

When planning your hikes in Lassen Volcanic National Park during the fall, it’s important to be prepared for changing conditions. Bring layers, sun protection, and a waterproof jacket since the weather can shift quickly. Some days may have the warmth of late summer, while others can bring early snow and a sudden chill. Being ready for both keeps your adventure safe and enjoyable. Check trail conditions before you head out. 

More Lassen Volcanic National Park Trails to Discover this Fall:

1. The Bumpass Hell Trail is the most popular in Lassen Volcanic National Park. The trailhead is just seven miles from the southwest entrance of the park, and it is a three-mile round-trip hike that’s accessible for most ages and abilities. Along the way, you’ll pass bubbling mud pots, steaming turquoise pools, and Big Boiler, one of the hottest fumaroles in the world. 
2. The Manzanita Lake Trail is mostly flat and easy, perfect for spotting waterfowl, raptors, and songbirds. It also offers a glimpse of Lassen Peak and the Chaos Crags. The calm waters around the shoreline also reflect fall colors. 
3. The Lassen Peak Trail is a challenging five-mile round-trip climb, but in the fall, it rewards hikers with crisp air, fewer crowds, and panoramic views of the park’s volcanic landscape. If Lassen Peak is covered in snow, you’ll likely also find snow on the trail. You can hike into the heart of the crater to see the striking evidence of past eruptions, a reminder of Lassen’s powerful volcanic history. Lassen Peak itself is one of the largest plug dome volcanoes in the world.
4. Take the moderate three-mile round-trip hike on the Kings Creek Falls Trail leading up to the upper cascades. In the fall, the combination of rushing water, crisp air, and light filtering through the trees makes this trail one of the most rewarding experiences in the park. It’s also one of the best trails for spotting fall colors in Lassen before winter.

Beyond hiking, visitors can enjoy the scenic 30-mile Lassen Volcanic National Park Highway, which connects the northwest and southwest entrances in about one hour. Along the way, you’ll pass highlights with convenient pull-offs and parking.

Early fall also offers boating on lakes like Manzanita, Butte, and Juniper, though rentals usually wind down in late September. Keep in mind the Loomis Visitor Center at the northwest entrance closes in mid-October, while the Kohm Yah-mah-nee Visitor Center near the southwest entrance remains open year-round but may adjust hours.