Information
Contact Lassen Volcanic National Park, P.O. Box 100, Mineral, CA 96063 (tel. 530/595-4480; www.nps.gov/lavo). Peak Experiences is a free, handy little newspaper listing activities, hikes, and points of interest. Also useful is Larry Eifert's Lassen Volcanic National Park: Auto Tours, Trips & Trails (Estuary Press, 2007), which gives a tour of the park from a motorist's view point. These and other books, plus maps and videos, are available from the Lassen Association (tel. 530/529-3450; www.lassenassociation.org).
Visitor Centers
There is a visitor center just inside the northwest entrance at the Loomis Museum. The Loomis Museum (daily late June to late Sept) has interpretive exhibits, videos, and leaflets. Ranger-led walks are offered late June to early September.
Just inside the southwest entrance, the terrific new Kohm Yah-mah-nee Visitor Center features interpretive exhibits, a bookstore, and a cafe. Named for the Mountain Maidu people's moniker for "Snow Mountain," Kohm Yah-mah-nee is open daily year-round.
The park headquarters, on Calif. 36 in Mineral, southwest of the park, offers information and publications Monday to Friday (except holidays) year-round. There are ranger stations at Summit Lake and in the more isolated reaches of the park at Warner Valley, Juniper Lake, and Butte Lake.
Fees & Permits
Entry to the park for up to a week costs $10 per vehicle or $5 per person on foot, horse, or bicycle. Camping fees range from $10 to $18. Anyone spending the night in the backcountry must obtain a free wilderness permit.
Special Regulations & Warnings
Because of the dangers posed by the park's thermal features (specifically the boiling, acidic water), always remain on trails in active areas and heed warning signs. Fires are allowed in campgrounds only. Warm clothing is needed year-round.
Note: This information was accurate when it was published, but can change without notice. Please be sure to confirm all rates and details directly with the companies in question before planning your trip.
