Lassen Volcanic National Park
June 18, 2011 by: Sharon Roberts
Lassen Volcanic National Park Road is now open to Bumpass Hell parking area at the SW entrance, Devastated Area at the North entrance, Road to Butte Lake and Cinder Cone is open and Warner Valley road into Drakesbad is open. Road crews are working to have Hwy. 89 through the park open for fourth of July weekend. http://www.stbernardlodge.com/facebook or park website both have road updates.
Right now is a popular time for spring skiing or snowshoeing. Bodfish Quiet Mountain Sports in Chester rents cross country skis and snowshoes. Mill Creek Resort rents snowshoes. This is a great time to try cross country skiing or snowshoeing while the weather is warm and the park still has lots of snow.
Lassen peak is open to over-the-snow travel until trail crews are able to begin work for the season which will be the second year of Reach the Peak trail rehabilitation project. Access to the peak will be limited to the following dates this summer: July 1 to July 4; August 13 & 14, and September 2 to September 5. If you want to make it to Lassen Peak this is the time to do it with over-the-snow travel conditions.
Ranger-led programs are kicking off on Friday June 17th and will continue through Labor Day weekend. There are programs for visitors of all ages. For a program schedule check the park web site or the summer newspaper for the park.
Weather conditions can change quickly in the park be prepared for possible cold and snowy conditions. Dress in layers, bring blankets, food, water, sunscreen and sunglasses.