The best waterfall hikes and walks in Plumas County

Embark on the Kings Creek Falls, Bench Lake and Sifford Lakes Loop for a moderate hike through Lassen Volcanic National Park. This route spans 3.9 miles (6.4 km) and involves a total elevation gain of 609 feet (186 metres), typically taking around 1 hour and 59 minutes to complete. You will experience varied landscapes, from picturesque meadows to shaded fir and redwood forests, with the dramatic Kings Creek Falls as a highlight where water rushes through a narrow stone chasm.

When planning your visit, be aware that the trail includes a fairly steep descent with loose gravel and rocky sections, especially as you approach Kings Creek Falls. The cascades also feature large, potentially slippery stone steps, so wearing sturdy hiking boots is a good idea. Always check the Lassen Volcanic National Park website for current trail conditions before you go, as parts of the route have been closed in the past due to hazardous conditions.

Beyond the impressive falls, you can discover the tranquil waters of Bench Lake and the serene cluster of Sifford Lakes, offering peaceful forest vistas. Keep an eye out for local wildflowers like Fawn Lilies and Satin-leaf Lupines, and listen for the calls of Clark's Nutcrackers. This loop provides a diverse experience, showcasing the natural beauty and varied ecosystems of the park.

The Mill Creek Falls Trail is a fantastic, easy 1.7-mile (2.7 km) hike in Lassen Volcanic National Park, offering a rewarding 50-minute journey with 401 feet (122 metres) of elevation gain. This route winds through diverse terrain, from red fir forests to open hillsides dotted with wildflowers like mule ears, culminating in the impressive 75-foot Mill Creek Falls, the park's tallest waterfall. You'll navigate dips, rises, and rocky sections, enjoying views of Brokeoff Mountain and Mt. Diller along the way.

To start your adventure, head to the Kohm Yah-mah-nee Visitor Center, where the trailhead is located behind the amphitheater. While the trail is generally considered easy, wearing sturdy hiking boots is advisable for the varied terrain. Remember to bring plenty of water, especially on sunny days, as some parts of the trail are exposed. This trail offers a less crowded alternative to some of the park's more popular spots, making it ideal for a peaceful outing.

What makes this trail particularly special is its status as a hidden gem within Lassen Volcanic National Park, providing a tranquil experience to reach the park's highest waterfall. The landscape also offers glimpses into the impact of the 2021 Dixie Fire, which has opened up new viewsheds. Keep an eye out for wildlife such as deer and various birds, and you might even catch a hint of sulfur in the air from the volcanic origins of the feeding creeks.

Embark on a challenging journey through Lassen Volcanic National Park with the Bumpass Hell from Southwest Campground trail, a difficult 12.2 miles (19.6 km) hike that takes you past serene lakes and offers sweeping views of volcanic peaks. You'll navigate varied terrain, from packed dirt paths to rocky sections, culminating in the otherworldly landscape of the Bumpass Hell basin, where steam vents hiss and mud pots bubble. This route, with its 2484 feet (757 metres) of elevation gain and an estimated duration of 6 hours and 9 minutes, is a full-day commitment for hikers ready to explore the park's active geology.

Planning your visit requires attention to the seasons; this trail is typically only accessible from late July through October due to heavy snowpack. The trailhead is conveniently located at Southwest Campground, but be sure to carry ample water and wear sturdy hiking boots, as shade is scarce and the terrain can be demanding. Starting early is always a good idea to make the most of the daylight and avoid the heat of the day.

Bumpass Hell is Lassen Volcanic National Park's largest hydrothermal area, a testament to the park's volcanic origins. It's named after Kendall Vanhook Bumpass, an early explorer who famously got burned here, highlighting the need to stick to the designated boardwalks. The basin's vibrant colors, sulfurous air, and the powerful "Big Boiler" fumarole create an unforgettable, sensory experience that truly sets this hike apart in the region.

Embark on the Kings Creek Falls Trail, a moderate hiking route that guides you through charming meadows and peaceful fir forests. This journey follows the course of Kings Creek, leading you to the impressive Kings Creek Falls, a 30 to 40-foot waterfall where rocky outcrops provide excellent viewing platforms. The entire hike covers 2.5 miles (4.0 km) with an elevation gain of 415 feet (127 metres), typically taking about 1 hour and 23 minutes to complete.

When planning your visit, be aware that the trail is usually accessible from June through October due to its high elevation and snowmelt conditions. Always check current trail conditions before you go, as sections can become dusty and slippery during drier periods. You might also encounter a seasonal marsh crossing, which sometimes requires navigating a log bridge.

What sets this trail apart is a unique and dramatic section of stone steps built directly into the rock face. As you ascend these steps, you'll find the views continuously improving, offering a memorable perspective of the surrounding landscape. This feature adds an engaging element to your hike, making the journey to the falls even more rewarding.