Manzanita Lake, Lassen Volcanic NP

From McArthur-Burney Falls Memorial SP we drove to Lassen Volcanic NP, which was supposed to be the ultimate goal of our three-day weekend. I wanted to visit this park already last year, but it proved not to be easy. The main road leading through the park is open only 3-4 months each year. This year, for example, it only opened on 9th of July. And likely it will close within next few weeks, as soon as it starts snowing.

On top of that, it is rather challenging to find a campsite there on a weekend. But with a bit of advance planning, it is possible. We were lucky to get a spot at the Manzanita Campground, which is the only campground in Lassen with showers. Additionally, it is located next to a beautiful alpine Manzanita Lake. So as soon as we set up our tent, we went for a hike around the lake. It was a very pretty and relaxing hike. The trail goes very close to the lakeshore and offers great views of both the lake and Lassen Peak.

A dear drinking from the lake:


Manzanita Lake:

Manzanita Lake and Lassen Peak in the background (the cone shaped mountain on the right):