Lassen Volcanic National Park, CA

I have visited Lassen Volcanic National Park many times over the years. So, I didn't take in the park's highlights over several days; something I would do during a first visit. Instead, I spent just one day for two specific purposes.

First, I drove most of the way between the park's two entrances and viewed some of the devastation caused by the 2021 Dixie Fire. That was certainly heartbreaking. Second, I completed a 4-mile hike to three lakes which I hadn't seen before.

Terrace Lake

I hiked above 7,000 feet over a dry, rocky terrain studded with evergreen trees.

The Undamaged Terrain of Lassen Park

Terrace Lake, the smallest of the three lakes, lay in a kind of natural alcove.

Arrival at Terrace Lake

While Rising Above & Skirting the Edge of Terrace Lake

Along its shores were a variety of plants and grasses. I found these interesting as they appeared to be cohabitating.

Mountain Hemlock Grows amid Purple Mountain Heath

Shadow Lake

During the hike, I caught glimpses of the surrounding mountain peaks and ridges. At a couple of spots, the tip of Mt Lassen could be seen.

A Portion of Mt Lassen through the Trees

These were among the most plentiful of the plants that dotted the ground along the trail. It was unfortunately too late in the season to see their flowers.

Satin Lupine

Shadow Lake, the largest of the three lakes, shown a vivid blue against the green trees and white rocks.

First View of Shadow Lake

Shadow Lake with an Obstructed Mt Lassen in the Background

Cliff Lake

The setting of Cliff Lake may have been the most dynamic with trees and plants clustered around part of it and rock fragments providing a contrasting backdrop along the other.

Shallow Waters of Cliff Lake

Cliff Lake Surrounded by Nature

Hillside of Rocks, Large & Small

Wildlife was scarce this day. However, I did enjoy watching a couple of ducks paddling along the lakeshore and dunking their heads underwater (I assume in the search for food).

Mallard Duck Near the Lake's Edge

Mallard Ducks
(one putting its head in the water; the other upside down)