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Lassen Volcanic National Parksnowplow moving snow at Bumpass Hell parking area
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Lassen Volcanic National Park
Frequently Asked Questions

1. Is the Main Park Road Open?
The opening and closing dates of the Main Park Road vary from year to year depending on the total accumulation of snow. The road can close as early October 18 or as late as November 24. The road can open as early as May 10th or as late as July 21st. Please visit the Main Park Road Status webpage for up-to-date information on the current conditions of the Main Park Road.

2. Can I reserve a campsite at a specific campground?
Many campsites within the park are open for reservations through the www.recreation.gov website. Please visit the park campground page for a listing of campgrounds and information about each campground.

3. Is a specific trail open, free of snow, and accessible?
The opening dates of trails in the park vary from year to year depending on snow accumulation and other winter storm damage. Trails near Manzanita Lake, Butte Lake, and Warner Valley tend to thaw out first. Please call our information hotline at (530) 595-4480 or visit the current trail conditions webpage.

4. What are the snow and avalanche conditions in the park?
Please call our information hotline at (530) 595-4480 or check here for current snow and avalanche conditions in the park. Snow and avalanche conditions can change constantly. Terrain and other factors can create a mix that is ideal for dangerous avalanche conditions. The daily advisory is obtained by conduction various test to check stability. Tests are taken at an area which is conducive for the most accurate readings. Snow conditions can vary greatly from day to day and at varying elevations and aspects. Many factors play a role in snow condtion; temperature, sun exposure, open or forested terrain and wind. The age of the snowpack and new snow accumulation and the type of snow also play a role in the condition.

5. Where can I fish in the park?
Fishing is permitted within the park according to California State regulations. A California license is required for ages 16 and up. Special regulations apply to Manzanita Lake: within 150 feet of the Manzanita Creek inlet is closed to fishing, the rest of the lake is catch and release only; artificial lures and single, barbless hooks must be used. Manzanita Creek is closed above Manzanita Lake year-round.

6. Where can I walk my pet in the park?
Not on trails but it's allowed in developed areas (campgrounds, picnic areas, paved roads, and parking lots). Pets must be on a leash.

7. Where can I ride my bike in the park?
Keep bikes on developed roads only. Bikes are not permitted on hiking trails.

8. What is the weather like?
Weather plays a dramatic role at Lassen Volcanic National Park. Winter, especially, shapes the landscape; snow generally begins to accumulate each year in October, doesn't melt in most places until July, and can remain in isolated areas year round. Summer weather is more predictable, with warm, dry days, blue skies, and cool nights. Visitors to Lassen Volcanic National Park should be prepared for any kind of weather, any time of the year. Please visit our weather webpage for more information about temperatures you can expect during each month of the year, as well as current weather forecasts.

9. Where can I have a fire?
Campfires are allowed only in the fire rings provided in developed campgrounds. No backcountry campfires are allowed year-round.

10. What are the park hours?
The park is open 24 hours a day, year-round. Access in winter and spring is limited by vehicle due to snow accumulation and closed park roads, but visitors can still drive to either main park entrance and enjoy snow activities such as snowshoeing or sking.
                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                11. How much does it cost to visit the park? 
Park entrance fees apply year-round. A 7 day pass is $10 per vehicle. To learn more about park fees and passes, please visit fees and reservations.

12. Where can I snowshoe or ski? 
Recommended trails can be found in the park newspaper, "Peak Experiences". Trails at the south entrance of the park are classified as intermediate to advanced. Trails at the north entrance of the park are classified as beginner to intermediate. The park does not rent snowshoes or skis.

13. What can I see in winter when access in the park is limited? 
Bring the snowshoes and skis to explore a quieter side of the park. On clear days, views of Lassen and other peaks can be seen. Take a 2 mile trek around Manzanita Lake where view of snow-covered volcanoes can be seen and opportunities to spot birds and other winter wildlife abound. Take a one mile trek up the snow-covered park road to the Sulphur Works Hydrothermal area, accessed from the southwest entrance of the park. The new Kohm Yah-mah-nee Visitor Center is open daily and is located at the southwest entrance.

14. How do I get a wilderness permit to camp in the backcountry?
Wilderness permits can be obtained at the park, advance reservations are not required. Permits can also be requested in advance. Please look at the regulations and requirements for camping in the wilderness and to obtain a permit in advance through the mail. Permits are free of charge. Wilderness permit applications and information.

President Roosevelt riding a horse  

Did You Know?
Lassen Volcanic National Park started as two separate national monuments designated by President Theodore Roosevelt in 1907: Cinder Cone National Monument and Lassen Peak National Monument.

Last Updated: March 20, 2009 at 13:17 EST