Attractions and Places To See in Lassen County - Top 20

Lassen County is rich in natural beauty. Don't miss Butte Lake, known for its boat ramp and campground, formed by lava flows from the Cinder Cone volcano. Another highlight is Blue Lake, offering a day-use area, boat launch, and a trail around its west side. For stunning volcanic vistas, visit the Painted Dunes Overlook, where varied colors come from mineral-rich volcanic rocks.

Yes, Lassen County offers several family-friendly options. Both Butte Lake and Blue Lake are great for families, with amenities like boat launches and campgrounds. Regionally, Wemple's Pumpkin Patch in Milford is a popular family attraction, especially in the fall, featuring pumpkin picking, a country store, and tractor displays.

Lassen County has a rich history. You can explore Roop's Fort, built in 1854, which is the oldest building in the county and played a role in the 'Sagebrush War.' The Lassen Historical Museum, located next to Roop's Fort in Susanville, houses relics, photos, and Native American artifacts spanning 160 years of the Honey Lake Valley's history. Also, consider visiting the Susanville Railroad Depot, listed on the National Registry of Historic Places, and the ancient Bruff's Rock Petroglyph Site near Susanville.

Lassen County is an outdoor adventurer's paradise. You can find numerous hiking opportunities, including the Eagle Lake Recreation Trail and the challenging Butte Lake, Snag Lake and Cinder Cone Loop. For cycling, the Bizz Johnson Trail is a popular 29-mile route for biking and hiking. Lassen National Forest also offers extensive trails for hiking, biking, and cross-country skiing.

Yes, there are several easy hiking options. The Eagle Lake Recreation Trail is an easy 4.5 km hike. Other accessible trails include the Old Paul Bunyan Road and Canyon Trail Loop and the Gem Lake trail. For more options, check out the Easy hikes in Lassen County guide.

Lassen Volcanic National Park is the primary destination for volcanic landscapes. You can see all four types of volcanoes there. Highlights include Lassen Peak, Bumpass Hell (the largest hydrothermal area), and Sulphur Works, which is easily accessible. The Painted Dunes Overlook offers spectacular views of colorful volcanic terrain, and the Cinder Cone and Fantastic Lava Beds area features a cinder cone volcano and unique lava flows.

For breathtaking views, the Painted Dunes Overlook provides a surreal perspective of the volcanic landscape. Hiking to the summit of Lassen Peak also offers stunning panoramic views. Manzanita Lake provides impressive views of Lassen Peak, especially at sunset, and Blue Lake is another scenic spot with a trail and forest surroundings.

Yes, the Bizz Johnson Trail is a popular 29-mile trail from Susanville to Westwood, ideal for cycling and mountain biking, and includes a former railroad tunnel. Lassen National Forest also offers various trails suitable for mountain biking. For road cycling, you can find routes like the Sierra Valley loop from Loyalton or the Red Rock & Highway 395 loop.

The best time to visit Lassen County for most outdoor activities, especially hiking and exploring volcanic areas, is generally from late spring through early fall (May to October) when trails are clear of snow and weather is mild. However, winter offers opportunities for activities like cross-country skiing at Lassen National Forest or skiing at Coppervale Ski Hill.

Lassen County is home to significant pioneer history. You can trace parts of the Noble's Emigrant Trail, pioneered in 1851, which served as a path for pioneers heading west. The Lassen Emigrant Trail, opened by Peter Lassen in 1848, was heavily used by gold seekers. You can also visit the Peter Lassen Grave, a memorial to the frontiersman for whom the county and peak are named.

Beyond the main attractions, consider exploring Parsnip Creek Meadow, a lush green meadow that can appear as an overgrown lake, offering abundant water even in dry seasons. The Cary Reservoir Trail leads to a small reservoir with good water for refilling and swimming, and offers flat spots for camping.

Yes, in addition to the Lassen Historical Museum in Susanville, you can visit the Big Valley Historical Museum in Bieber. This museum features displays and collections related to the settlement and development of northeastern California, including exhibits on pioneer life and Native American artifacts. The Susanville Symphony Orchestra also offers cultural performances.