Are you thinking about Northern California road trip? If so I would love to share with you best things to do in Lassen Volcanic National Park with kids – the true hidden gem of the Golden State. For starters, check out the stats below. If you like scenic natural beauty with no crowds, Lassen Volcanic National Park is the perfect choice:
Lassen Volcanic National Park is a great park to visit with kids because here you can see and learn lots of interesting things related to volcanic activity that you don’t see in most of U.S. national parks. Mt. Lassen is an active volcano, the last time it erupted was not so long ago (1914-1917) and it will erupt again.
Lassen Volcanic National Park offers a variety of trails suitable for kids and one scenic drive that covers the entire park. Below is the list of best things to do in Lassen Volcanic National Park with kids as they appear in order if you start your drive from Manzanita Lake entrance.
#1 Manzanita Lake
There are several reasons why I consider Manzanita Lake trail hike one of the best things to do in Lassen Volcanic National Park with kids. First of all, it is an easy hike, just under 2 miles loop with no elevation gain. Second of all, it goes around the beautiful Manzanita Lake with gorgeous views of Mt. Lassen and also crosses Manzanita Creek, a prime playground for kids who love splashing in water.
Manzanita Lake is also a great for trout fishing and kayaking.
#2 Reflection lake
Reflection Lake is located on the other side of the main park road from Manzanita Lake. The loop hike around this lake is less than 1 mile and perfect for small kids. Reflection Lake is smaller than Manzanita lake but no less beautiful, it also offers the views of Mt. Lassen reflected in its still blue waters.
#3 Hot Rock
Hot Rock is a huge rock that is sitting right next to the road. It was expelled from the volcano 30,000 or so years ago during an eruption. It is a fun rock that kids love to climb on.
#4 Devastated Area
This is the stop that many people miss because it does not look like much from the road. But I consider walking around this area one the best educational things to do in Lassen Volcanic National Park with kids. It has several interpretive exhibits that talk about previous eruptions of Mt. Lassen and point out notable rocks and other evidence of volcanic activity.
#5 Summit Lake
We did not hike from Summit Lake area though it has a couple of trails. We liked the picnic area right next to the lake and a gazillion of dragonflies in July. If you like to watch these interesting insects than this is a must stop for you.
#6 Kings Creek Falls
Kings Creek Falls train is probably the most popular hiking trail in Lassen Volcanic National Park. Kings Creek Falls is the only major waterfall in the Park so it is not surprising that it attracts Park visitors. The most part of the trail is easy but the last portion of it descending to the waterfall is a little tricky and even more difficult is the ascending part which is 0.2 miles of steps going up at a considerable angle.
Nevertheless, I would still say that hiking to Kings Creek Falls is one of the best things to do in Lassen Volcanic National Park with kids because my kids (12 and 7 years of age) survived the roughly 3 miles to and back trail pretty well, it was me who was actually out of breath.
I love this trail because it goes along the beautiful Kings Creek, it has plenty of shade and it has some fantastic scenic views.
#7 Upper Meadow
Right next to the Kings Creek trailhead is Upper Meadow. Many people once the hikes the Kings Creek Falls trail just drive off, which is a pity. The meadow is really beautiful and the same Kings Creek runs through it. You cannot hike on the meadow but, please, stop by for some scenic views. This is the place where we like to grab some water from crystal clear Kings Creek to take home with us. To be on the safe side, filter water before drinking. The taste is amazing!
#8 Lake Helen and Emerald Lake
These two lakes are located at the highest point in the Park (roughly 8000 ft) so you will see snow here most of the time. The lakes are located less than half a mile from each other and both are simply gorgeous. There is no hiking trails here, just enjoy the splendid views.
#9 Bumpass Hell
Bumpass Hell trailhead is located between Lake Helen and Emerlad Lake. It is my dream to hike this trail but it is always closed when we visit due to snow so my suggestion to you is: visit late in summer. Experiencing Bumpass Hell area is one of the best things to do in Lassen Volcanic National Park with kids because it is very unique. It shows real time volcanic activity with steaming vents and bubbling mud pools.
The hike to the main hydrothermal area is 1.3 mile one way and there is some elevation gain so I would probably call this a moderate hike but I cannot give you more details until we explore it ourselves.
#10 Sulphur Works
If Bumpass Hell trail is closed, Sulphur Works is the next best thing. It is a small area of hydrothermal activity right next to the main Park drive. You can see steaming vents and a couple of mud pools here too and you can definitely smell sulfur. There is a 1.1 miles hiking trail from the parking lot to Ridges Lakes where you will be able to see some more hydrothermal activity.
TIPS FOR VISITING LASSEN VOLCANIC NATIONAL PARK
- To make sure all major trails are open I suggest visiting in the second half of July and August
- Note elevation gain. The highest point along the main drive sits at 8500 ft so the temperature difference between where you will start at Manzanita Lake and the top can be very drastic. Have a sweater with you. And be prepared for some snow on the higher elevation trails, even in July.
- Bring water and food with you. There are no concession stands within the park.
- Where to stay when visiting Lassen Volcanic National Park: there are a couple of campgrounds in the Park but we prefer renting cabins in nearby small towns such as Old Station or Burney.
For a complete video review of Lassen Volcanic National Park check out my video:
If you want detailed information about other cool attractions near Lassen Volcanic National Park to visit with kids check out my articles:
Explore Lava Beds National Monument Caves With Kids
Volcanic Wonders – Best Northern California Road Trip
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