Lassen Volcanic National Park in Northern California is often called the Iceland of America because of its amazing geothermal features. Even with all its natural beauty very few people visit this national park every year. Here are ten reasons why this incredible destination remains one of the best kept secrets in the country.
It Is Hidden in Northern California
This park is tucked way up in the Cascade mountains so it is not a quick drive from hubs like Los Angeles. People usually stick to the famous spots down south and completely miss out on this massive volcanic playground right in their own state.
The Snow Keeps Things Closed a Lot
The weather here is pretty wild and snow can cover the main roads and hiking trails for a huge chunk of the year. You really only get a short window from late June to October to see the best spots before winter shuts everything down.
People Just Do Not Know About It
It is crazy how many folks have never even heard the name Lassen Volcanic National Park when planning their summer trips. Everyone rushes to book Yellowstone or Yosemite and they forget this place has bubbling mud pots that look like a different planet.
You Have to Plan Your Camping Early
Even with fewer crowds you still have to reserve camp spots way ahead of time because demand is actually pretty high. If you just show up hoping to pitch a tent by the lake you might be out of luck unless you grab a primitive spot.
The Hydrothermal Areas Smell Like Rotten Eggs
Places like Bumpass Hell are amazing to look at but the sulfur gas coming out of the ground smells exactly like old eggs. It is a really cool science lesson you can walk through but the funky smell might make you plug your nose.
Some Lakes Are Literally Boiling Hot
You might see a bright green lake and want to jump in but the water is actually bubbling at over a hundred degrees. You have to stick to marked safe lakes like Manzanita if you want to swim or kayak without getting a hot surprise.
The Hiking Trails Can Be Pretty Tough
There are over a hundred and fifty miles of trails here and some of those summit climbs will definitely make your legs burn. It is a total dream for serious hikers but casual walkers might find themselves out of breath trying to reach the top.
You Have to Stay on the Boardwalks
Walking through active volcano zones means you have to stay on the marked paths because the ground around it is super unstable. You cannot just run off into the wild to get a cool photo because stepping in the wrong spot is actually dangerous here.
It Has All Four Types of Volcanoes
This park is one of the only places outside of Iceland where you can see every single type of volcano in one spot. That sounds amazing for rock nerds but the word volcano might scare off families trying to plan a relaxing weekend vacation.
It Feels Like Walking on Mars
The bubbling mud and hissing steam vents create a landscape that looks completely alien and not like your typical green forest getaway. It is the closest thing to taking a spaceship to another planet without ever having to remember to bring your passport along.
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