Lassen Volcanic National Park Named ‘Yosemite Without the Crowds’ by Reader’s Digest
You don’t hear about Lassen Volcanic National Park when the top national parks in the United States are discussed, and maybe that’s a good thing.
Yosemite National Park is having issues with overcrowding, making a visit to the famous park different from decades past. But if you’re in for a remote experience, you can look to the north to find a landscape that rivals Yosemite without the incessant crowds.
Reader’s Digest recently released a list of 15 Less Crowded Alternatives to the Most Popular Tourist Attractions and of course, Lassen made the list. The popular publication recommends visitors avoid the Yosemite crowds and instead head to the geological marvel that is Lassen Volcanic National Park. Here’s what they said:
Yosemite without the crowds: Lassen Volcanic National Park
Near Redding, California (just over two hours north of Sacramento), Lassen Volcanic National Park bubbles and steams just like Yosemite National Park albeit without the crowds—it’s one of our favorite off-the-beaten-path national parks. The scenic drive from Redding boasts mountainous scenery, and once you arrive, you’ll discover this is the only spot in the world where all four different types of volcanos are found in one spot (shield, composite, cinder cone, and plug dome). Whether you’re into geology or just like to see something new, the hydrothermal activity provides plenty to explore. Don’t worry, picnicking is a favorite pastime, too, amid the wildflowers and crystalline lake backdrops. Make Redding’s Best Western Plus Hilltop your home base in the Shasta Cascade region because it is especially close to nearby restaurants and bars once you’re ready to settle in for the evening.
We couldn’t agree more! Although Yosemite is one of our favorite places on the planet, there’s no doubt that Lassen rivals its southern counterpart.
If you want to learn more about what to do in Lassen, check out our 8 Best Adventures in Lassen Volcanic National Park.
Also, Reader’s Digest urged its readers to check out Crater Lake instead of the Grand Canyon. Let’s see what they wrote about our northern friends in Souther Oregon:
Been to the Grand Canyon? Try Crater Lake National Park
Whether you’ve already seen it or just want to skip the crowds, the 1,943 feet deep Crater Lake National Park in Southern Oregon is the deepest and bluest lake in America. In fact, it is the ninth deepest lake in the nation. With cliffs almost 2,000 feet high, the views of this natural wonder are exceptionally glamorous. This is a great alternative for those looking to explore the great outdoors without the crowds. Activities include hiking, backpacking, picnicking, and boating; in the winter, both cross country skiing and snowshoeing are popular. The spring-to-fall Crater Lake Lodge is the only hotel within the national park and a favorite of repeat visitors.
