Lassen Volcanic National Park

After (sadly) leaving the beauty of Yosemite, it was time to head northward again to the final few parks, the first of which is Lassen Volcanic National Park. As we approached this park we noticed something VERY exciting...

 This park focuses around the volcanic activity found in this location. Mt. Lassen is one of only 2 mountains in the United States to erupt in the 20th century (Mt. St. Helens being the other), and is still surrounded by smoldering steam vents and mud pots. During the summer you can drive through the park and see all of the geologic features and scenic beauty this park has to offer. In the winter... it is covered in SNOW!!! Yes. There was snow everywhere! (Well, everywhere in the park...) In fact, the only road that was open was the road that leads just inside to the visitor's center. From there you can venture on using skis, snowshoes, or other means of snow transportation. We did not have any of these things. And the snow was deep enough that just slogging through was definitely not an option. So we did some exploring, took some pictures, enjoyed the crisp freshness of winter, then sadly left the snow behind and continued on our journey.

Personnel:

There were no personnel available for us to interview for our blog at this park... they were probably inside drinking warm beverages in front of a fire... which we do not begrudge them. Or they were out playing in the SNOW! Which we also do not begrudge them!

Climate/weather:

This is a VERY good time to visit this park... if you like being in the snow! If snow isn't your thing, and you want to see more of the park's features in a way that requires less clothing and effort, maybe come in a more summerly time.

Facilities/signage:

We did not have a chance to utilize this park's fantastic facilities. The entrance sign won bonus points for being in the snow. We didn't get far enough into the park to experience the other signage.

Hiking experience:

We walked in the snow! For a few steps, then returned to the car, sliding the whole way. Probably best if you come during this time of year to bring some kind of snow flotation device (skis/snowshoes for example.)

Driving experience:

It was short, but it is always a wonderful drive when you are in the mountains surrounded by snow covered trees.

Camping options:

In the winter: backcountry snow camping. In the summer there are probably a few more options...

Hammockability:

In the winters more underquilt layers would be required, but there are plenty of trees! In summer you would probably be just fine!

Scenery:

Snow covered mountains with trees and amazingness! Also, in the summer there are other things too... but... SNOW!

Nearby food:

Uh... you should bring your own. And hot water in winter for warm drinks!

We were super excited to finally experience the snow! Definitely the highlight of our trip to this park! We would consider going back to experience the rest of the park's attractions (mostly because it isn't too far away) but the snow was a breath of fresh air after the dry high desert of the southwest.

Next stop: the Redwoods!