Lassen Volcanic National Park, a wonderland of geothermal wonders and dramatic volcanic landscapes, beckons adventurers with its diverse offerings. During a recent four-day exploration of the Lake Almanor and Lassen Volcanic National Park region, we embarked on a captivating day hike to Widow Lake, a hidden gem located behind the stunning landscape of Butte Lake. Our Lassen adventure began with a stay at the centrally located St. Bernard’s Lodge, perfectly situated for a weekend of exploration. This adventure offered a unique perspective of the park’s untamed beauty, showcasing meadows bursting with wildflowers, serene lakes, and captivating geological formations.
What and Where to Explore when visiting Butte Lake?
Beyond the Usual Path
Having previously conquered the classic hike to Lassen’s Cinder Cone Peak and Painted Dunes for breathtaking panoramas, we sought a fresh perspective on this visit. Equipped with insights gleaned from resources like AllTrails, we charted a course towards the lesser-known Widow Lake, burrowed into the mountain slopes on the backside of Butte Lake. Driven by a desire for moderate exertion, scenic vistas, and a touch of solitude, this trail perfectly fit the bill, especially with limited time before our next commitment. The Widow Lake hike is approximately 8 mile round trip with nearly 1100 feet of elevations change.
Unveiling Butte Lake’s Secrets
Butte Lake itself is a longstanding favorite, renowned for its opportunities for paddleboarding, swimming, and fishing. Cradled against a vast lava flow, the lake gracefully curves southward, embraced by the flow on one side and the slopes of Sunrise peak on the other. A serene creek spills out to the north, while another smaller one feeds the lake from the south.
The designated parking area leads you on a short climb to a remarkable vista point. This is a must-do, even for those not planning an extensive hike. The panorama unfolds before you, a breathtaking view of Lassen’s of nature’s artistry.
A Journey Through Time
Descending from the vista point, the trail gently leads you down to Butte Creek. This tranquil spot, ideal for a picnic, offers a chance to reconnect with nature and witness the vibrant wildlife flitting about. Signs of a past fire are evident along this stretch of the shoreline, where nature is diligently reclaiming its domain. The abundant birdlife serenaded us throughout our hike, with geese gliding gracefully across the lake’s surface.
As you reach the far side of the lake, the trail takes a slightly steeper incline, traversing a burn scar and a vibrant meadow. Here, you’ll encounter a fork in the path. One route leads southwest to Snag Lake, ultimately reaching the backside of the cinder cone and the famed Painted Dunes. The other path, our chosen route, takes you southwest towards Widow Lake.
Delving into the Burn Scar
Opting for Widow Lake, we ventured deeper into the burn scar. However, the early season brought the delightful reward of a flowing stream and a wildflower-carpeted meadow leading to a captivating field of large boulders. This unique geological spectacle sparked our imaginations, hinting at the possibility of Widow Lake being an ancient river dammed by volcanic activity. The majestic peak of Mount Lassen served as a stunning backdrop, further enriching the experience.
A short, moderately steep climb led us to a flatter area where Widow Lake rests. While the Dixie Fire had undeniably left its mark on the shoreline, the lake itself remained calm and serene. A gaggle of geese honked cheerfully as we enjoyed a well-deserved rest, soaking in the tranquility of the surroundings.
The Return Journey
The descent back to Butte Lake was a breeze. Upon reaching the lake, we opted for a scenic detour, following the river downstream and taking a loop trail back to the parking area. This route led us past two charming little lakes, the Bathtub Lakes, located just north of Butte Lake.
Butte Lake and Widow Lake provided an unforgettable adventure, showcasing the captivating diversity of Lassen Volcanic National Park. From the heart-stopping vistas to the hidden gems like Widow Lake, this region offers something for every explorer. So, lace up your hiking boots, grab your camera, and embark on your own adventure to discover the magic that awaits in Lassen Volcanic National Park.
