National Park · California

Trails in Lassen Volcanic National Park

67 named trails · 167 miles · 36 trailheads · 6 with the Park Service's own write-up. The lines, trailheads and points are the Park Service's; the write-ups are the Service's own words; the climbing is read from USGS elevation along each line.

Open on the parks mapEvery park with trailsPark on nps.gov

67 trails, A to Z.

Bathtub Lake Trail

1.4 mi one way · about 150 ft of climbing · 6,001 ft–6,167 ft · native surface · hiking, horse

6,070 ft 6,056 ft · 0.6 mi high 6,070 ft

Trailheads Bathtub Lake Trailhead 6,092 ft Drive there · Butte Lake East Trailhead 6,079 ft Drive there

On the parks map

Bumpass Hell Trail

3.2 mi one way · about 250 ft of climbing · 1,000 ft of descent · 7,424 ft–8,383 ft · native surface · hiking · seasonal: Closed seaonally due to snow

Views

8,177 ft 7,424 ft · 1.8 mi high 8,249 ft

Along the way Bumpass Hell Trail Viewpoint

Trailhead Bumpass Hell Trailhead 8,186 ft Drive there

Hike to Bumpass Hell the Park Service's write-up

90 Minutes · no dogs · Summer, Fall

Start Bumpass Hell Trail and Basin

Four young kids hiking on a trail backed by a large volcanic peak and rocky, tree-lined slopes.
Bumpass Hell Trail is popular with hikers of all ages.

Bumpass Hell Trail

Start : Bumpass Hell parking area, 7 miles from the Southwest Entrance

Round-trip Distance : 3 miles

Round-trip Time : 2 hours

Terrain : Gradual climb first mile then 200-foot descent into basin

Elevation : 8,200 - 8,400 feet

Trail Surface: Packed gravel

Width: 48" to basin overlook; trails into basin are narrow

Season: Approximately late July through October

360-degree photos of the basin

Bumpass Hell Trail provides access to the largest hydrothermal area in the park. The trail is open in the late summer and fall only. Learn more about the winter/spring closure . Parking for this popular trail is limited and is often full mid-morning to early afternoon, especially on weekends. The three-mile, round-trip hike is easy to moderate in difficulty and is popular with hikers of all ages. Vault toilets are available only at the trailhead, there are no restrooms on the trail or in the basin. Pets are not permitted on any park trails.

How to Hike This Trail Safely

Hiking the Bumpass Hell Trail involves risk. Learn more about general hiking safely in this high-elevation and remote park. Special considerations for this hydrothermal area include:

Shade is limited on this trail. Hikers are encouraged to wear or bring a hat and carry water.

Winter conditions can persist through the summer months, especially in the forested sections of the trail. Wear proper footwear (good tread, ankle support, closed toe) and consider using trekking poles to help maintain balance. Knee and ankle injuries are the most common visitor injury in the park.

Stay on established trails and boardwalks in/around the basin . Ground in hydrothermal areas can look solid but may actually be a thin crust hiding pools of acidic boiling water or mud. Visitors have been severely injured by traveling off-trail in these areas.

Water and mud in hydrothermal areas is acidic. Do not put water or mud from park hydrothermal areas on your skin. Even water that is cool to the touch is acidic and can irritate or burn your skin with prolonged exposure.

Hiking at high elevation can aggravate preexisting medical conditions. Know the effects of altitude. Carry plenty of water, take often, and do not exceed your abilities.

Pets Pets are not permitted on park trails, including in a carrier. This regulation does not apply to service animals assisting a person with a disability.

Accessibility The Bumpass Hell Trail is hardpacked dirt and rock. Most of the first mile is four feet wide, with minimal slope. The last half mile descends 300 feet into the basin and includes some rock steeps and steeper slopes. Service animals assisting a person with a disability are permitted on the trail.

This hike on nps.gov

On the parks map

Chaos Crags Trail

2.0 mi one way · about 850 ft of climbing · 5,921 ft–6,733 ft · native surface · hiking, horse

5,921 ft 6,650 ft · 1.9 mi high 6,728 ft

Trailhead Crags Lake Trailhead 5,920 ft Drive there

Hike Reflection Lake Loop the Park Service's write-up

15-30 Minutes · no dogs · Spring, Summer, Fall

Start Reflection Lake Trail

Lassen Peak and Reflection Lake as seen from the Reflection Lake Trail
Reflection Lake Trail Rewards with Views of Lassen Peak Photo: NPS Photo

Start : Lily Pond/Reflection Lake Trailhead, across highway from Loomis Museum

Round Trip Distance : 0.5 miles

Round Trip Time : half-hour

Elevation: 5,890 ft

Elevation Change : Negligible

Surface: Dirt with tree roots and exposed rock in places, may be soft/wet in spots.

Season: May through October (when snow-free)

This half-mile loop hike circles Reflection Lake leading to spectacular views of Lassen Peak and Chaos Crags on its northern shore often seen reflecting in the water. It is ideal for families with young children or anyone looking for a short and relatively flat walk with rewarding views. Water birds such as Canada geese, coot and mallard ducks are often on the water. A portion of the trail overlaps the Lily Pond Interpretive Trail, which offers an opportunity to learn about the rich diversity of plant and animal life along the loop.

Reflection Lake Recreation

Recreation on Reflection Lake is limited. Please note:

boats , rafts and other floatation devices are not permitted on Reflection Lake.

Swimming is not advised due to bacterial contaminates, algae, water plants and excessive fallen logs and other obstacles along the shoreline.

Fishing opportunities are limited on Reflection Lake. Excesive water plants and lakeshore debris are sure to snag line and hook. Only tiu chub fish live in Reflection Lake.

Parking is available across the highway at the Loomis Plaza, although the parking area is often full in the summer season. Additional parking is available at the Manzanita Lake Day Use Area , which connects to the Loomis Plaza via a short section of the Manzanita Lake Trail . Bikes and pets are not permitted on park trails. Strollers and wheelchairs are not recommended as the trail is rocky and narrow in some sections.

How to Hike This Trail Safely

Walking any park trail involves risk. This trail is appropriate for all ages, however all visitors should be familiar with general hiking safety in this high-elevation and remote park, including:

Wear proper footwear (good tread, ankle support, closed toe). Knee and ankle injuries are the most common visitor injury in the park.

Hiking at high elevation can aggravate preexisting medical conditions. Know the effects of altitude. Carry plenty of water, take breaks often, and do not exceed your abilities.

Pets Pets are not permitted on park trails, including in a carrier. Learn more about visiting with pets . This regulation does not apply to service animals assisting a person with a disability. A service animal, as described by the ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) performs a specific task for a disabled person.

Accessibility The composition of the trail is dirt and rock. Most of the trail is flat with the exception of some hilly areas and narrow sections. There is one short and shallow wet crossing during spring and early summer. Service animals assisting a person with a disability are permitted on park trails. A service animal, as described by the ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) performs a specific task for a disabled person.

This hike on nps.gov

On the parks map

Cinder Cone Trail

2.6 mi one way · about 650 ft of climbing · 1,100 ft of descent · 6,248 ft–6,886 ft · native surface · hiking

6,821 ft 6,272 ft · 0.6 mi high 6,821 ft

Trailhead Cinder Cone Trailhead 6,071 ft Drive there

On the parks map

Cluster Lakes Trail

2.6 mi one way · about 350 ft of climbing · 6,241 ft–6,558 ft · native surface · hiking, horse

6,241 ft 6,553 ft · 2.6 mi high 6,558 ft

Trailhead Cluster Lakes Trailhead 6,671 ft Drive there

On the parks map

Crystal Lake Trail

0.5 mi one way · about 400 ft of climbing · 6,835 ft–7,216 ft · native surface · hiking, horse

6,835 ft 7,216 ft · 0.4 mi high 7,216 ft

Trailhead Crystal Lake Trailhead 6,833 ft Drive there

On the parks map

Dream Lake Trail

0.2 mi one way · 30 ft of descent · 5,682 ft–5,726 ft · native surface · hiking, horse

5,726 ft 5,704 ft · 0.1 mi high 5,726 ft

Trailhead Drakesbad Trailhead 5,683 ft Drive there

On the parks map

Horseshoe Lake Trail

4.4 mi one way · about 500 ft of climbing · 6,539 ft–6,957 ft · native surface · hiking, horse

6,542 ft 6,559 ft · 2.1 mi high 6,653 ft

Trailhead Horseshoe Lake Trailhead 6,774 ft Drive there

On the parks map

Inspiration Point Trail

0.8 mi one way · about 400 ft of climbing · 6,779 ft–7,192 ft · native surface · hiking, horse

Boat launches

6,779 ft 7,136 ft · 0.8 mi high 7,192 ft

Along the way Juniper Lake Boat Launch

Trailhead Inspiration Point Trailhead 6,775 ft Drive there

On the parks map

Juniper Lake Loop

1.7 mi one way · about 100 ft of climbing · 6,762 ft–6,820 ft · native surface · hiking, horse

CampgroundsBoat launches

6,768 ft 6,814 ft · 1.3 mi high 6,820 ft

Along the way Juniper Lake Boat Launch Juniper Lake Campground

Trailheads Horseshoe Lake Trailhead 6,774 ft Drive there · Juniper Lake Loop-North Trailhead 6,804 ft Drive there · Juniper Lake Loop-South Trailhead 6,756 ft Drive there · Mount Harkness Trailhead 6,795 ft Drive there

On the parks map

Juniper Lake Loop Trail

4.3 mi one way · about 300 ft of climbing · 6,748 ft–6,880 ft · native surface · hiking, horse

6,767 ft 6,866 ft · 1.7 mi high 6,880 ft

Trailheads Juniper Lake Loop-North Trailhead 6,804 ft Drive there · Juniper Lake Loop-South Trailhead 6,756 ft Drive there

On the parks map

Juniper Lake to Butte Lake

3.3 mi one way · about 250 ft of climbing · 900 ft of descent · 6,086 ft–7,019 ft · native surface · hiking, horse

6,479 ft 6,140 ft · 1.3 mi high 6,479 ft

Trailhead Horseshoe Lake Trailhead 6,774 ft Drive there

On the parks map

Kelly Camp Trail

3.5 mi one way · about 750 ft of climbing · 5,320 ft–5,981 ft · native surface · hiking, horse

5,320 ft 5,981 ft · 3.4 mi high 5,981 ft

Trailhead Kelly Camp Trailhead 5,317 ft Drive there

On the parks map

Kings Creek Trail

3.7 mi one way · about 150 ft of climbing · 1,200 ft of descent · 6,001 ft–7,283 ft · native surface · hiking, horse

Waterfalls

6,820 ft 6,144 ft · 2.0 mi high 6,934 ft

Along the way Kings Creek Falls

Trailheads Kings Creek Falls Trailhead 7,287 ft Drive there · Kings Creek Trailhead 7,386 ft Drive there

Hike to Kings Creek Falls the Park Service's write-up

90 Minutes · no dogs · Summer, Fall

Start Kings Creek Falls Trailhead

A fenced overlook above a 30-foot-high waterfall.
Kings Creek Falls overlook provides a safe view of the 30-foot-high waterfall.

Start : Kings Creek Falls Trailhead

Round Trip Distance : 2.3 miles (3.7 km) loop

Round Trip Time : 2 hours

Terrain : Gradual 700 foot descent along Upper Cascades section; steep, narrow stone staircase for one-way, uphill return via Cascades Foot Trail.

Elevation Start / Loss : 7,286 feet (2220m) / 486 ft (148 m)

Season : Approximately June through October

Stock Use: Stock are not permitted on the Cascades Foot section

Kings Creek Falls is partily open - park staff will continue with repairs.

Kings Creek Falls can be accessed via a loop or an out-and-back hike. The first half mile passes along Lower Kings Creek Meadow. The loop then begins to the left (clockwise) along the Upper Cascades section, which offers expansive vistas as it steadily descends towards Kings Creek Falls. A fenced overlook provides a clear view of the 30-foot waterfall. Hikers can return to the trailhead on the same Upper Cascades section or loop back on the Cascades Foot section. Please travel uphill only on this narrow, steep section alongside the cascades to help improve your safety and the safety of others.

How to Hike This Trail Safely

Hiking the Kings Creek Fall Trail involves risk. Learn more about general hiking safely in this high elevation and remote park. Special considerations for this trail include:

Winter conditions can persist through the summer months, especially in the forested sections of the trail. Wear proper footwear and consider using trekking poles to help maintain balance.

Hiking at high elevation can aggravate preexisting medical conditions. Know the effects of altitude. Carry plenty of water, take breaks often, and do not exceed your abilities.

Bears are occasionally sighted in this area. Learn more about how to be bear aware to protect yourself and wildlife.

Traveling off-trail around the waterfall is strongly discouraged. For your safety, please stay behind the overlook railings. Snow melt significantly increases water flow in the spring season and increases the danger of drowning or being swept over the falls.

Creek crossings can be hazardous during the spring snow melt season. Use caution when crossing, wear proper footwear and carry extra clothing.

Pets Pets are not permitted on park trails, including in a carrier. This regulation does not apply to service animals assisting a person with a disability.

Accessibility The Kings Creek Falls Trail is primarily comprised of hardpacked dirt. A staircase provides access to the trail from the parking area along the park highway. There are numerous slopes along the trail and some sections can be dusty and slippery, especially in the dry season. There is at least one seasonal marsh crossing that requires crossing a log bridge. The one-way cascades foot section includes steep, rock steps that climb parallel to the creek. This trail is not recommended for hikers with mobility impairments. Service animals assisting a person with a disability are permitted on park trails.

This hike on nps.gov

On the parks map

Lassen Peak Trail

2.5 mi one way · about 2,000 ft of climbing · 8,468 ft–10,449 ft · native surface · hiking

ViewsPeaks

8,468 ft 10,449 ft · 2.4 mi high 10,449 ft

Along the way Lassen Peak Grand View

Trailhead Lassen Peak Trailhead 8,457 ft Drive there

Hike Lassen Peak the Park Service's write-up

4-5 Hours · no dogs · Summer, Fall

Start Lassen Peak

A family hikes up a rocky a trail above a bright blue alpine lake and distance volcanic peaks.
Lassen Peak Trail features continuous, panoramic views.

Start: Lassen Peak Trailhead

Level of Difficulty: Strenuous

Round-Trip Distance: 5 miles (8 km)

Time: 4-5 hours

Elevation Start/Gain: 8,500 ft (2591 m) / 1,957 ft (596 m)

Surface: Packed dirt with some lose rock from erosion

Lassen Peak Trail climbs to the summit of one of the largest plug dome volcanoes in the world. Beginning at the Lassen Peak parking area, the trail climbs through twisted mountain hemlock and whitebark pine trees on sand-like cinders. As the trees begin to thin and vistas of the park come into view, the trail steepens into series of switchbacks along a rocky ridge to the summit. The maintained trail ends at the first summit where hikers can read interpretive signs, rest, and enjoy the panoramic view. From there, hikers may continue up the steep route to the true summit or descend into the interior of the crater to explore the remnants of the dramatic eruptions that have rocked this volcano.

How to Hike This Trail Safely

Hiking Lassen Peak Trail involves risk. Learn more about general hiking safety in this high-elevation and remote park. Special considerations for this trail include:

Snow Conditions can persist through the summer months. Wear proper footwear and consider using trekking poles to help maintain balance. Travel in the winter months requires winter backcountry travel knowledge and equipment.

Sun Exposure is considerable on Lassen Peak Trail. Tree shade may be found in the first mile after which limited shade is available.

Sudden Changes in weather occur frequently and snow is possible any month of the year. Get an early start to avoid afternoon storms and lightning. Carry extra layers for warmth.

Hiking at High Elevation can aggravate pre-existing medical conditions. Know the effects of altitude. Carry plenty of water, take breaks often, and do not exceed your abilities.

Yield to Uphill Hikers

Please carefully step off to the side of trail to allow uphill hikers to pass or to stop for a break.

Please Stay on the Trail Do Not Cut Switchbacks

You can enjoy and help preserve one of the park’s oldest and most popular trails by simply staying on it. Traveling off-trail causes damage. Your footsteps can push rocks onto the trail, create pathways for water erosion, and undermine the supporting slope. See hikers straying from the trail? Speak up! A courteous reminder about why it’s important to stay on the trail is usually enough. If not, please report destructive behavior to a park ranger.

Pets Service animal allowed. No pets.

Accessibility Not accessible to wheelchairs.

This hike on nps.gov

Hike Reflection Lake Loop the Park Service's write-up

15-30 Minutes · no dogs · Spring, Summer, Fall

Start Reflection Lake Trail

Lassen Peak and Reflection Lake as seen from the Reflection Lake Trail
Reflection Lake Trail Rewards with Views of Lassen Peak Photo: NPS Photo

Start : Lily Pond/Reflection Lake Trailhead, across highway from Loomis Museum

Round Trip Distance : 0.5 miles

Round Trip Time : half-hour

Elevation: 5,890 ft

Elevation Change : Negligible

Surface: Dirt with tree roots and exposed rock in places, may be soft/wet in spots.

Season: May through October (when snow-free)

This half-mile loop hike circles Reflection Lake leading to spectacular views of Lassen Peak and Chaos Crags on its northern shore often seen reflecting in the water. It is ideal for families with young children or anyone looking for a short and relatively flat walk with rewarding views. Water birds such as Canada geese, coot and mallard ducks are often on the water. A portion of the trail overlaps the Lily Pond Interpretive Trail, which offers an opportunity to learn about the rich diversity of plant and animal life along the loop.

Reflection Lake Recreation

Recreation on Reflection Lake is limited. Please note:

boats , rafts and other floatation devices are not permitted on Reflection Lake.

Swimming is not advised due to bacterial contaminates, algae, water plants and excessive fallen logs and other obstacles along the shoreline.

Fishing opportunities are limited on Reflection Lake. Excesive water plants and lakeshore debris are sure to snag line and hook. Only tiu chub fish live in Reflection Lake.

Parking is available across the highway at the Loomis Plaza, although the parking area is often full in the summer season. Additional parking is available at the Manzanita Lake Day Use Area , which connects to the Loomis Plaza via a short section of the Manzanita Lake Trail . Bikes and pets are not permitted on park trails. Strollers and wheelchairs are not recommended as the trail is rocky and narrow in some sections.

How to Hike This Trail Safely

Walking any park trail involves risk. This trail is appropriate for all ages, however all visitors should be familiar with general hiking safety in this high-elevation and remote park, including:

Wear proper footwear (good tread, ankle support, closed toe). Knee and ankle injuries are the most common visitor injury in the park.

Hiking at high elevation can aggravate preexisting medical conditions. Know the effects of altitude. Carry plenty of water, take breaks often, and do not exceed your abilities.

Pets Pets are not permitted on park trails, including in a carrier. Learn more about visiting with pets . This regulation does not apply to service animals assisting a person with a disability. A service animal, as described by the ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) performs a specific task for a disabled person.

Accessibility The composition of the trail is dirt and rock. Most of the trail is flat with the exception of some hilly areas and narrow sections. There is one short and shallow wet crossing during spring and early summer. Service animals assisting a person with a disability are permitted on park trails. A service animal, as described by the ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) performs a specific task for a disabled person.

This hike on nps.gov

On the parks map

Lily Pond Trail

0.6 mi one way · about 30 ft of climbing · 5,904 ft–5,935 ft · native surface · hiking

Visitor centers

5,909 ft 5,904 ft · 0.6 mi high 5,935 ft

Along the way Loomis Museum

Trailhead Lily Pond Trailhead 5,905 ft Drive there

On the parks map

Manzanita Creek Trail

3.4 mi one way · about 1,200 ft of climbing · 5,933 ft–7,134 ft · native surface · hiking, horse

5,933 ft 7,134 ft · 3.3 mi high 7,134 ft

Trailhead Manzanita Creek Trailhead 5,931 ft Drive there

On the parks map

Manzanita Lake Trail

1.8 mi one way · about 30 ft of climbing · 5,863 ft–5,897 ft · native surface · hiking

Picnic areasVisitor centersRanger stationsBoat launches

5,883 ft 5,894 ft · 1.7 mi high 5,894 ft

Along the way Manzanita Lake Boat Launch Manzanita Lake Picnic Area Loomis Ranger Station Loomis Museum

Trailheads Manzanita Lake Trailhead 5,895 ft Drive there · Nobles Emigrant-Summertown Trailhead 5,871 ft Drive there

Walk Manzanita Lake Trail the Park Service's write-up

30-90 Minutes · no dogs

Start Manzanita Lake

A looks out on a brush-lined lake backed by volcanic peaks.
Manzanita Lake Loop affords spectacular views of Chaos Crags and Lassen Peak.

Start : Loomis Plaza / Manzanita Lake Day Use Area

Round Trip Distance : 1.7 miles

Round Trip Time : 1 hour

Elevation: 5,890 ft

Elevation Change : Negligible

Surface: Firm dirt with tree roots and exposed rock in places

360-degree photos from the trail

Manzanita Lake Trail is one of a handful of walks in the park with scenic views of the iconic Lassen Peak. Begin the dirt trail around the lake from the Manzanita Lake Day Use Area or Loomis Plaza (between the restrooms and museum). Parking is easiest at the boat launch; Loomis Plaza parking is often full in the summer season. Restrooms are available at the boat launch and the Loomis Plaza. Lassen Peak and Chaos Crags are visible from a large section of the western shore, which is most easily accessed from the boat launch trailhead. Please note that bikes and pets are not permitted on park trails. Strollers and wheelchairs are not recommended as the trail is rocky and narrow in some sections.

Manzanita Lake is a popular habitat for songbirds, raptors, and waterbirds. Black-tailed deer, Douglas squirrels, and golden-mantled ground squirrels are also frequently spotted on the trail. Help keep wild animals wild by never feeding wildlife. The trail offers excellent sunset views. The picnic area provides a clear view across the lake to the west. From the western shore, hikers can enjoy alpenglow cast by the setting sun on Lassen Peak and Chaos Crags.

How to Hike This Trail Safely

Walking the Manzanita Lake Trail involves risk. Learn more about general hiking safety in this high-elevation and remote park. Special considerations for this trail include:

Shade can be limited. We recommend all hikers wear or bring a hat and carry water.

Wear proper footwear (good tread, ankle support, closed toe). Knee and ankle injuries are the most common visitor injury in the park.

Hiking at high elevation can aggravate preexisting medical conditions. Know the effects of altitude. Carry plenty of water, take breaks often, and do not exceed your abilities.

Pets Pets are not permitted on park trails, including in a carrier. This regulation does not apply to service animals assisting a person with a disability. A service animal, as described by the ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) performs a specific task for a disabled person.

Accessibility The trail is not recommended for wheelchair use. The trail is narrow in places with numerous obstacles including tree roots and exposed rocks. Individuals in wheelchairs can access the Manzanita Lake Picnic Area/Boat Launch to enjoy lake access, bird watching, wildlife viewing, and sunset watching. Service animals assisting a person with a disability are permitted on park trails. A service animal, as described by the ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) performs a specific task for a disabled person.

This hike on nps.gov

On the parks map

Mill Creek Falls Trail

1.7 mi one way · about 300 ft of climbing · 450 ft of descent · 6,408 ft–6,706 ft · native surface · hiking, horse

Waterfalls

6,706 ft 6,520 ft · 1.6 mi high 6,706 ft

Along the way Mill Creek Falls

Trailhead Mill Creek Falls Trailhead 6,713 ft Drive there

On the parks map

Mount Harkness Trail

7.2 mi one way · about 2,800 ft of climbing · 5,266 ft–8,045 ft · native surface · hiking, horse

5,266 ft 6,865 ft · 2.2 mi high 6,865 ft

Trailheads Mount Harkness Trailhead 6,795 ft Drive there · Mt Harkness-Warner Valley Trailhead 5,262 ft Drive there

On the parks map

Nobles Emigrant Trail

13 mi one way · about 1,700 ft of climbing · 5,634 ft–6,475 ft · asphalt, native surface · hiking, horse

Boat launches

5,955 ft 5,822 ft · 2.8 mi high 6,273 ft

Along the way Butte Lake Boat Launch

Trailheads Cinder Cone Trailhead 6,071 ft Drive there · Nobles Emigrant Trail Trailhead 5,638 ft Drive there · Nobles Emigrant-Hat Creek Trailhead 6,472 ft Drive there · Nobles Emigrant-Summertown Trailhead 5,871 ft Drive there

On the parks map

Pacific Crest Trail

8.0 mi one way · about 900 ft of climbing · 5,640 ft–6,416 ft · native surface · hiking, horse

CampgroundsPicnic areas

6,262 ft 6,239 ft · 1.8 mi high 6,348 ft

Along the way Warner Valley Campground Warner Valley Picnic Area

Trailheads PCT-Warner Valley Campground Trailhead 5,688 ft Drive there · Warner Valley Trailhead 5,646 ft Drive there

On the parks map

Reflection Lake Trail

0.6 mi one way · 10 ft of descent · 5,890 ft–5,909 ft · native surface · hiking

Visitor centers

5,904 ft 5,899 ft · 0.5 mi high 5,904 ft

Along the way Loomis Museum

Trailhead Lily Pond Trailhead 5,905 ft Drive there

Hike Reflection Lake Loop the Park Service's write-up

15-30 Minutes · no dogs · Spring, Summer, Fall

Start Reflection Lake Trail

Lassen Peak and Reflection Lake as seen from the Reflection Lake Trail
Reflection Lake Trail Rewards with Views of Lassen Peak Photo: NPS Photo

Start : Lily Pond/Reflection Lake Trailhead, across highway from Loomis Museum

Round Trip Distance : 0.5 miles

Round Trip Time : half-hour

Elevation: 5,890 ft

Elevation Change : Negligible

Surface: Dirt with tree roots and exposed rock in places, may be soft/wet in spots.

Season: May through October (when snow-free)

This half-mile loop hike circles Reflection Lake leading to spectacular views of Lassen Peak and Chaos Crags on its northern shore often seen reflecting in the water. It is ideal for families with young children or anyone looking for a short and relatively flat walk with rewarding views. Water birds such as Canada geese, coot and mallard ducks are often on the water. A portion of the trail overlaps the Lily Pond Interpretive Trail, which offers an opportunity to learn about the rich diversity of plant and animal life along the loop.

Reflection Lake Recreation

Recreation on Reflection Lake is limited. Please note:

boats , rafts and other floatation devices are not permitted on Reflection Lake.

Swimming is not advised due to bacterial contaminates, algae, water plants and excessive fallen logs and other obstacles along the shoreline.

Fishing opportunities are limited on Reflection Lake. Excesive water plants and lakeshore debris are sure to snag line and hook. Only tiu chub fish live in Reflection Lake.

Parking is available across the highway at the Loomis Plaza, although the parking area is often full in the summer season. Additional parking is available at the Manzanita Lake Day Use Area , which connects to the Loomis Plaza via a short section of the Manzanita Lake Trail . Bikes and pets are not permitted on park trails. Strollers and wheelchairs are not recommended as the trail is rocky and narrow in some sections.

How to Hike This Trail Safely

Walking any park trail involves risk. This trail is appropriate for all ages, however all visitors should be familiar with general hiking safety in this high-elevation and remote park, including:

Wear proper footwear (good tread, ankle support, closed toe). Knee and ankle injuries are the most common visitor injury in the park.

Hiking at high elevation can aggravate preexisting medical conditions. Know the effects of altitude. Carry plenty of water, take breaks often, and do not exceed your abilities.

Pets Pets are not permitted on park trails, including in a carrier. Learn more about visiting with pets . This regulation does not apply to service animals assisting a person with a disability. A service animal, as described by the ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) performs a specific task for a disabled person.

Accessibility The composition of the trail is dirt and rock. Most of the trail is flat with the exception of some hilly areas and narrow sections. There is one short and shallow wet crossing during spring and early summer. Service animals assisting a person with a disability are permitted on park trails. A service animal, as described by the ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) performs a specific task for a disabled person.

This hike on nps.gov

On the parks map

Ridge Lakes Trail

1.1 mi one way · about 1,000 ft of climbing · 6,998 ft–7,987 ft · native surface · hiking, horse

6,998 ft 7,987 ft · 1.1 mi high 7,987 ft

Trailhead Ridge Lakes Trailhead 7,000 ft Drive there

On the parks map

Summit Lake Trail

0.7 mi one way · about 30 ft of climbing · 6,671 ft–6,702 ft · native surface · hiking, horse

Picnic areas

6,671 ft 6,697 ft · 0.2 mi high 6,697 ft

Along the way Summit Lake Picnic Area

Trailhead Cluster Lakes Trailhead 6,671 ft Drive there

On the parks map

About these trails

The lines are the National Park Service's public trails layer, the trailheads and the waterfalls, views, peaks and historic places along them the Service's public points of interest, read 2026-10-14 and simplified for the map. The write-ups are the Service's own "things to do", unedited. Heights come from USGS 3DEP through Terrain Tiles on AWS (Mapzen/Tilezen), read along each line and rounded; a short trail on steep ground can be off by a few tens of feet. Closures change: check the park's own site before you go.