Lassen Volcanic National Park Highway Reopens for Summer Season
Lassen Volcanic National Park has officially opened its scenic highway for the summer season, inviting travelers to explore one of Northern California’s most underrated natural wonders. The 30-mile stretch of highway, which connects the park’s northwest entrance at Manzanita Lake to the southwest Kohm Yah-mah-nee Visitor Center, is now fully accessible with no vehicle restrictions.
Each spring, park crews take on the monumental task of clearing the highway of deep winter snow, often working through towering snowbanks and unpredictable weather. Using rotary snowplows and heavy equipment, they slowly carve a path through elevations that climb above 8,000 feet, making the route passable just in time for the summer rush.
With the road now open, visitors can enjoy access to some of the park’s most iconic destinations, including:
- Manzanita Lake – A serene spot for kayaking and mountain reflections.
- Bumpass Hell – A hydrothermal area filled with steaming vents and boiling mud pots.
- Emerald Lake and Lake Helen – Stunning alpine lakes ideal for photography or a peaceful stop.
- Lassen Peak Trailhead – A starting point for the challenging but rewarding hike to the summit.
Whether you’re chasing wildflower blooms, photographing volcanic landscapes, or just enjoying a scenic drive, now is the perfect time to experience the beauty of Lassen.
