Lassen Volcanic National Park

Lassen Volcanic National Park is located in the central part of northern California.  It is located in the Cascades as the southernmost volcano of that mountain range. The park covers an area of 166.3 square miles (430.8 sq km).

The landscape and surrounding area are still active featuring fumaroles, hot springs, and mud pots.  The park is among a few places in the world where all four types of volcanoes may be experienced.  The four volcano types in the park include:

• Cinder cone
• Plug dome
• Shield
• Stratovolcano

Lassen Peak, the namesake volcano of the park, is the largest plug dome volcano in the world. It is also one of the leading attractions of the national park both from an exploration perspective as well as a scientific perspective as researchers study the effects and return to life following the eruptions between 1914 and 1921.

The park is divided into regions with unique facets in each. The western region delivers large lava pinnacles, rugged craters, and steaming vents.  Lake, canyons, and streams are found scattered across this portion of the park. 

The eastern region features a massive lava plateau where cinder cones are located. The southern region is mostly known for the hot springs which include Boiling Springs Lake, Devils Kitchen, and Terminal Geyser.

The areas of the park which are not devastated from the last eruption are forested and home to many wildlife species.  Some of the fun and considered cute species include raccoon, chipmunk, weasel, and pika.  The larger species include black bear, cougar, mule deer, and red fox, and either of these can make for a nice wildlife sighting.