Lassen Volcanic National Park offers a unique experience in the spring months, with varying snow conditions creating opportunities for diverse activities. While the timing of snow removal operations is subject to fluctuations based on snowpacks and weather conditions, here’s a guide to enjoying the park and nearby attractions in April and May.
Snow removal in Lassen is a variable timeline. Each season depending on Snow packs, on coming storm weather etc. As snow removal operations begin in Lassen yearly, visitors look forward to accessing their favorite national park highway, but still will deal with snow and limited access. Here is a list of activities to consider in early spring visit to the park.
Lassen Volcanic National Park always receives a good amount of snow each year. As of March 2024 there is approximately 94″ of snow in the park after large blizzard storm. This will cause many areas of the park to be under snow until Late spring. For this reason Lassen has published a great list of activities to consider if you are planning a trip in April or May.
What to do: April – May
Snow quickly melts in the Northwest Area of the park (Manzanita Lake) and some trails may become snow-free in the spring season. In the Southwest Area, the snowpack remains very deep (14′ on April 10) and is best for winter recreation. View current snow depths here.
- Walk/ride/bike the cleared highway. Visitors are encouraged to enjoy sections of the park highway that are plowed, but not yet open to vehicles. Leashed pets are welcome on pavement. Please clean-up after your pet. The park highway will likely be plowed to Devastated Area (10 miles) by early April and will open to vehicles once conditions allow. Plowing will begin in the Southwest Area in mid-April. View a map of road clearing progress/status.
- Hike lower elevation trails. The Manzanita Lake and Lily Pond Trails and Reflection Lake route are usually the first trails in the park to be snow-free.
- Snowshoe/Ski in the Northwest Area. Rent snowshoes in Mineral, Chester, Redding, or Chico before heading into the park. Explore the snow-covered Chaos Jumbles or Devastated Area. View a guide to Manzanita Lake winter routes.
- Enjoy a scenic drive around the park. There are two routes around the park that connect the Northwest and Southwest Entrances. The western route (Lanes Valley Road) passes through lower elevation meadows and rangelands, which are often bright green and filled with wildflowers in the spring. On clear days, the drive offers excellent views of Chaos Crags, Lassen Peak, and Brokeoff Mountain from afar. The eastern route (A21) has a similar feel to driving through the park as it passes through dense forest dotted with volcanoes, lakes, and meadows.
- Walk to Sulphur Works hydrothermal area. The highway will likely be plowed between the Kohm Yah-mah-nee Visitor Center and Sulphur Works (two miles round-trip) by late April. Sulphur Works is the only hydrothermal area that is accessible in the spring until the road to Warner Valley opens, usually in mid-June.
- Snowshoe/Ski in the Southwest Area. Rent snowshoes in Mineral, Chester, Redding, or Chico before heading into the park. The steep terrain in this area creates some phenomenal views. Ridge Lakes, Diamond Peak, and Forest Lake (off the Brokeoff Mountain Trail) are good options for skiing or snowshoeing. Visitors traveling off the highway in this area should be avalanche aware. Watch a video about winter/snowy spring in the Southwest Area or view a guide to Southwest Area winter routes.
- Explore the Kohm Yah-mah-nee Visitor Center. The visitor center at the Southwest Entrance is open Wednesday through Sunday, 9 am to 5 pm through April. The visitor center is open daily beginning May 1.
- Snow camp at the Southwest Campground. The only park campground open at this time is the Southwest Walk-in Campground, which is either camping on the snow or in a vehicle in the Kohm Yah-mah-nee Visitor Center parking area.
Spend A Weekend in the Lassen Region
- Subway Tunnel Exploration:
- Journey through a winding lava tube located north of the park.
- Bring your own flashlight for navigation and reading reflective interpretive signs.
- Sturdy shoes and a light jacket are recommended for this cool underground adventure.
- Fishing in Lake Almanor Basin:
- Enjoy excellent fishing in the Lake Almanor Basin, with guide services available.
- Fishing boat rentals are accessible at Lake Almanor marinas for various fishing excursions.
- Indian Valley Exploration:
- Travel south on HWY 89 to Indian Valley for the Quilt Barn Tour, exploring old train tracks along the Feather River Area.
- Visit Indian Falls for a scenic stop, and continue your journey to Quincy.
- Quincy Delights:
- Explore Quincy, with a must-stop at Carey Candy Store in downtown for freshly made pastries, great coffee, and homemade chocolates.
Places to Stay Near Lassen Volcanic National Park
St Bernard Lodge
The historic St. Bernard Lodge, the perfect place to relax, unplug, and reconnect to the natural world that surrounds you. St. Bernard Lodge is located on ten gorgeous acres just outside the small town of Chester. The lodge is near Lassen Volcanic National Park, Lassen National Forest, Lake Almanor, the Pacific Crest Trail, and countless other outdoor treasures.
Mill Creek Resort
Mill Creek Resort is the off-the-beaten-path mountain resort that you’ve been looking for.
Located in the historic 1930’s Mill Creek Lodge just 20 minutes from the southwest entrance of Lassen Volcanic National Park.
Hat Creek Resort
Intermountain camping and fishing resort is a terrific family or group vacation destination. Whether you’re an RVer, enjoy tent camping, or prefer the comfort of our luxurious cottages, yurts or motel rooms, we offer a great family campground experience.
Spring Fishing
Casting Dreams: Fishing Adventures in Lake Almanor and the Feather River Basin
The Feather River Canyon, along Highway 70, is a hidden gem for avid anglers seeking unparalleled fishing experiences. Nestled within this picturesque canyon, Lake Almanor and the Feather River Basin offer a haven for those in pursuit of trophy catches and the tranquility of nature’s embrace.
Lake Almanor: A Jewel of Fishing Opportunities
Sparkling Waters and Diverse Species: Lake Almanor, with its crystal-clear waters, stands as a shimmering jewel in the heart of the Feather River Canyon. A haven for diverse fish species, anglers can test their skills against rainbow trout, brown trout, king salmon, and the elusive Eagle Lake Trout. The lake’s thriving ecosystem provides the perfect backdrop for an immersive fishing adventure.
Professional Guidance and Rentals: For those seeking expert guidance, professional guide services dot the shores of Lake Almanor. Experienced guides not only know the lake’s secret hotspots but also share invaluable tips to make your fishing expedition a triumph. Alternatively, seize the opportunity for independent exploration with fishing boat rentals available at marinas along the lake’s edge.
Memorable Trophy Catches: Lake Almanor has earned its reputation for producing trophy-sized fish, making every cast an anticipation-filled moment. The unique Eagle Lake Trout, with its distinctive characteristics, adds a touch of excitement to your angling pursuits. Capture the thrill of landing these impressive trophies against the stunning backdrop of the surrounding mountains.
Feather River Basin: Exploring Nature’s Fishing Playground
Highway 70’s Scenic Beauty: As you journey along Highway 70 through the Feather River Canyon, the scenic beauty captivates your senses. The Feather River Basin, with its winding waterways and lush landscapes, sets the stage for an immersive fishing experience. The journey itself becomes an integral part of the adventure, with each twist and turn revealing new vistas.
Diverse Fishing Environments: Explore the Feather River Basin for a variety of fishing environments. From serene riverbanks to hidden mountain lakes, the basin offers diverse settings for anglers of all preferences. Cast your line into the gently flowing river or seek out secluded spots where the Feather River’s tributaries offer a more secluded angling experience.
Conservation and Responsible Fishing: Amidst the excitement, prioritize responsible fishing practices. Respect local regulations, adhere to catch limits, and release undersized fish. Contributing to the conservation of the Feather River Basin ensures the sustainability of this natural fishing paradise for generations to come.
Embark on a fishing odyssey through Lake Almanor and the Feather River Basin, where each cast is a step closer to nature’s wonders. The Feather River Canyon invites you to cast your dreams into its waters, creating memories that ripple through time and leave an indelible mark on your angling heart.