Words of Wisdom from SharLeigh

A GREAT VACATION DESTINATION

Approximately 50 miles east of Redding, California is a “gem” of a National Park. This land was formed from the magma of volcanic lava and carved by the movement of massive glaciers. When summer arrives, the beauty of nature unfolds in Lassen National Volcanic Park with a diversity of plants and animals. Lassen Peak awoke with a recent eruption in 1914 and the activity continued until 1921. As you tour the park, you can see the destruction of the volcanic landscape and also see how nature is gradually claiming back the land. The park has 150 miles of hiking trails which include 17 miles of the Pacific Crest Trail. These hikes take you through thermal landscapes; conifer forests; alpine tundra; waterfalls; creeks; lakes and to the top of Lassen Peak. Go back in history and walk in the wagon train ruts of the Emigrant Trail. The thermal areas of the park feature steaming mud pots. If you want to be a mountain climber, the path to the top of Lassen Peak is not one for the faint of heart. It is a steep 2,000 foot climb, with many switchbacks, along a 2.5-mile trail. But the view from the top is fantastic and well worth the climb! You can see for miles in all directions; you can even see Mount Shasta 70 miles away and the northerly peaks of the Sierra Nevada range. California Route 89 is the main road through the park. Along the route you will hear, see and smell the Sulphur Works – a geothermal area with loud, hissing, steam vents, hot pools and mud pots. Along the way are Emerald Lake and Lake Helen, nice areas to get out and stretch your legs. As you continue you will come across the Bumpass Hell thermal area turnoff. Back on the road, at an elevation of 8,500 feet, you will see Lassen Peak. Further on you’ll find the Devastated Area, Chaos Jumbles and finally Manzanita Lake (a large camping area). If you are looking for a great place to vacation this summer, you should consider a trip to Lassen National Volcanic Park. You will not be disappointed!