Why Now Is the Best Time to Visit California’s Most Active Volcanic Landscape Before Snowfall

This park may be one of the more underrated US National Parks, but it has got stunning volcanic and geothermal landscapes. Almost like a light version of Yellowstone.

During my own West Coast road trip, I was fortunate to visit this Northern California national park during the prime time of late summer, which was absolutely breathtaking – warm during the day, ending with a magnificent sunset.

The weather at Lassen Volcanic National Park is all over the place. Mostly, it has long snow-covered winters and a short window of pleasant summers. So, here’s a look at the visitor seasons at Lassen Volcanic National Park:

• Peak Season: July to September
• Shoulder Seasons: Late Spring and Early Fall
• Off-Peak Season: November to May (due to heavy snowfall)

In the upcoming sections, I’ll give you more details about each season, the monthly weather breakdown, and some awesome events happening. Whether you’re up for an adventurous hike on the Cinder Cone Trail or a stroll around Manzanita Lake, planning a quick day trip, or a whole week, these are the best times to visit Lassen Volcanic National Park. 

Best Time to Visit Lassen Volcanic National Park

Best Season to Visit

Late summer, from July to September, is the absolute best time to visit Lassen Volcanic National Park. The weather is perfect for seeing the park’s geothermal wonders and hiking its trails without worrying about heavy snow. The park’s geothermal landscapes are in full bloom, and the chances of catching an amazing sunset over the volcanic peaks are at their highest.

Best Time for Good Weather

If you’re chasing good weather, aim for the late summer months. During this time, expect warm daytime temperatures averaging around 75°F (24°C), perfect for exploring the geothermal wonders and hiking trails. Evenings are mild and crisp, generally dropping to around 40°F (4°C). 

Due note that this season coincides with California’s wildfire season.

Best Time for Smaller Crowds

For a quieter experience, come during the shoulder seasons of late spring and early fall. These periods might be a bit chillier, and there may be some lingering snow on the trails, but you’ll find the park significantly less crowded. 

However, you don’t really need to worry about visitor numbers, as even in the peak of summer, the crowds will never look like those in the Grand Canyon or Zion. This park is far off of most people’s travel plans.

Cheapest Time to Visit

Visiting Lassen Volcanic National Park is most economical during the off-peak season, from November through May when the park sees fewer tourists due to heavy snowfall. During this time, you can often find reduced rates on accommodation, and the cost of guided tours can drop by as much as half. However, be prepared for colder temperatures and limited access to some attractions due to weather conditions.

Best Time for Stargazing

Lassen Volcanic National Park is recognized as an International Dark Sky Park. The best time to gaze at the starry nights is during the new moon phase in the late summer months, especially from July to September. These nights are typically clear and not below freezing outside. 

Worst Time to Visit Lassen Volcanic

The most challenging time to visit Lassen Volcanic National Park is during the winter months, from November to May, due to heavy snowfall. Many of the park’s major attractions become inaccessible, including the famous geothermal areas and hiking trails. Besides, frequent cold snaps, with temperatures often falling below freezing, might not appeal to those not adequately prepared for a winter expedition.

Park Closures

Lassen Volcanic National Park is generally open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. However, certain facilities and areas may have seasonal closures.

For instance, the Kohm Yah-mah-nee Visitor Center operates year-round but has reduced hours in the winter; some campgrounds and roads, like the Drakesbad Guest Ranch and the Lassen National Park Highway, close during the winter, typically reopening in late May to early June.

Seasons at Lassen Volcanic National Park

Spring (March to May)

Spring is characterized by melting snow and the re-emergence of flora. But ‘spring’ in Lassen is not your typical spring. Snow can still blanket much of the park well into May and hiking trails often remain snow-covered until late June. 

The weather in spring can be unpredictable, ranging from sunny, warm days to sporadic snowfall. Daytime temperatures hover between 40°F and 60°F, while nights can drop well below freezing. The park is very little-visited during this season, and you’ll often find the trails all to yourself. 

Summer (June to August)

Summer is the most popular season at Lassen Volcanic National Park, with long days and warm temperatures between 75°F and 85°F. Night-time lows hovering around a comfortable 40°F. Even with lots of people visiting in the summer, the park is huge, so there’s plenty of space for everyone.

The expansive meadows are filled with wildflowers, and the hiking trails, previously buried under snow, now show off its bubbling mud springs in Bumpass Hell to the azure waters of Manzanita Lake. Summer is the only time to tackle the ascent to the peak of Lassen Volcano,

Larger animals, such as black bears and mule deer, are frequently seen around this time.

Just keep in mind, that it’s fire season in California, so check for any park alerts before you go!

Fall (September to November)

As leaves change color, fall in the park gradually cools to 50°F and 70°F, while the chilly night temperatures can drop to freezing. As we move further into the season, the chance of early snowfall increases. Some facilities and roads may close earlier. The park generally sees fewer visitors in autumn.

Fall is the time of the year when animals are preparing for the harsh winter ahead. You’ll find animals like black bears and squirrels busy foraging for food to store.

Winter (December to February)

Winter in Lassen Volcanic National Park is quiet and hard, with daytime temperatures often dropping below freezing, between 20°F and 40°F, with nights even colder. 

Some areas receive over 30 feet of snow annually. This leads to road closures, limiting access to certain parts of the park. However, the Main Park Road from the Manzanita Lake entrance to the Kohm Yah-mah-nee Visitor Center is usually kept open, year-round.

The abundant snow makes for perfect conditions for snowshoeing and cross-country skiing. Ranger-led snowshoe walks are a popular activity.

Many animals hibernate or migrate, but you might spot tracks in the snow from squirrels, weasels, and foxes. 

Lassen Volcanic Weather By Month

Here is a month-by-month breakdown of the average high and low temperatures and snowfall around Manzanita Lake in Lassen Volcanic National Park:

Month	Average Low (°F)	Average High (°F)	Snowfall (inches)
Jan	13	50	35
Feb	13	51	28
Mar	16	53	33
Apr	23	61	14
May	29	70	8
Jun	34	79	1
Jul	40	84	0
Aug	40	85	0
Sep	36	78	0.5
Oct	30	69	3
Nov	21	56	18
Dec	14	50	31

Best Time of Day to Visit

The best time of day is at sunset time. I have never seen such gold hues shining through the branches of the forest on mountainscapes. The sharp light provides a gorgeous canvas for photographers.

Here’s a general breakdown of what to expect at different times:

• Morning (6 AM – 10 AM): Cool and crisp mornings are perfect for hiking and birdwatching.
• Midday (10 AM – 2 PM): As temperatures rise, this is a great time to visit the park’s geothermal features or take a leisurely picnic by Manzanita Lake.
• Afternoon (2 PM – 6 PM): A good time for photography of the geothermal features due to ample natural light.
• Evening (6 PM onwards): The ‘golden hour’ followed by sunset offers dramatic views. After dark, stargazing is a must-do in this International Dark Sky Park.

Special Events or Festivals

Here’s a list of some special events and festivals happening in or near Lassen Volcanic National Park:

1. 41st Annual Mile High Century Bike Ride: Strap on your helmet and get ready to pedal! This event takes you through some of the best landscapes around the park.
2. Almanor Art Show: This local festival showcases the talent and creativity of artists in the region.
3. High Sierra Music Festival in Quincy: A music festival with a fantastic lineup of musicians in an outdoor setting.
4. Oktoberfest: Held in October, this event has all the traditional trappings: hearty food, craft beers, and a festive atmosphere.
5. Manton Apple Festival: Also in October, this charming festival celebrates all things apple, from pies to cider.

Before you Close That Tab…Where to Next in California?

I’ve lived and vanlifed around, about, and through all of California for 3 years. If you’re looking for more information on California, check out these other destination itineraries.

• Perfect One Day In Lassen Volcanic National Park Itinerary
• Perfect One Day In Redwood National Park Itinerary
• Perfect One Day In Joshua Tree Itinerary For First-Timers
• One Day In Death Valley Itinerary For Adventurers
• Perfect One Day in San Diego Itinerary: What Not to Miss
• Perfect One Day in San Francisco Itinerary for First Timers
• Day Trip to Lake Tahoe: One Day Itinerary for All Seasons
• Perfect Day Trip to Sonoma Itinerary for Wine Lovers
• Perfect Day Trip to Napa Valley Itinerary for Wine Lovers
• Perfect One Day in Los Angeles Itinerary from a Local

MY FAVORITE TRAVEL RESOURCES

✈️ Find amazing guided tours and experiences with Viator to maximize your time! 🏘️ Plan ahead and secure your accommodation with Booking.com in advance. 🧾 Rent a car with Discovercars in advance and get the best prices for your day trip adventures.