Lassen Volcanic National Park: 3 Day Adventure from SF

Standing at the summit of Lassen Peak, the crisp alpine air filled my lungs as I looked out over a vast sea of rugged peaks and shimmering lakes, the sun casting golden light across the volcanic landscape. My legs burned from the steep climb, but the view — jagged ridges stretching into the horizon, steam rising faintly from geothermal vents below — made it all worth it. A quiet stillness settled over the peak, broken only by the sound of the wind and the crunch of gravel under my boots as I took it all in.

@camillalxy, Your AAdventure Guide

Essential Information

Sample Itinerary

Day 1 - Chaos Crags Trail -> Manzanita Lake Trail -> Manzanita Lake Campground

Kick off your adventure with a scenic 4-hr drive from San Francisco, stopping in Redding for lunch and supplies. After setting up camp at Manzanita Lake, stretch your legs on the 4-mile Chaos Crags Trail, a moderate hike through volcanic debris with panoramic views of Chaos Crater. End the day with a relaxing sunset walk along 1.7-mile Manzanita Lake Trail, where Lassen Peak's reflection on the calm water creates the perfect golden hour photo op.

Day 2 - Sulphur Works -> Bumpass Hell -> Lake Helen -> Lassen Peak Trail

Start early and head to the Southwest Entrance to explore Lassen's volcanic heart. Stop at Sulphur Works to see (and smell!) boiling mud pots and steaming fumaroles before hiking to Bumpass Hell (3-mile round trip), a boardwalk trail over vibrant geothermal pools. After a lakeside lunch at Lake Helen, challenge yourself with the iconic 5-mile Lassen Peak Trail — the summit offers jaw-dropping panoramic views of the park's volcanic peaks and alpine lakes.

Day 3 - Subway Cave Lava Tubes -> Kings Creek Falls Trail -> Summit Lake

Pack up and drive to Subway Cave Lava Tubes for a surreal walk through a dark, 46°F volcanic tunnel — don't forget a flashlight! Next, head to Kings Creek Falls (2.3-mile loop) to see one of Lassen's most beautiful waterfalls, framed by lush greenery and basalt cliffs. Enjoy a relaxed picnic at Summit Lake before the drive back to San Francisco. Don't forget to share your photos and experiences with us to be featured on Voyagers' social media. We'd love to hear your stories!

This Trip Is Best For

Weekend warriors: “I'm looking for a quick nature escape near San Francisco.”

First-time visitors: "I've never been to Lassen Volcanic and want to see all the highlights."

Outdoor adventurers: "I prioritize unique outdoor experiences over food and lodging conditions."

Easygoing hikers: "I appreciate a mix of relaxed schedules with moments of adventure."

Independent explorers: "I prefer traveling without a guide and am comfortable with basic navigation."

How To Autopilot

1. Pay a deposit to receive the full itinerary and secure your spot if you'd like to join a group.

2. Answer a few questions from us to be matched with compatible group members. 

3. Pay the balance to meet your group and get ready for your self-guided adventure together.

• Once you've met your group, no refunds will be issued for cancellations.
  
• Each additional participant you bring gets 10% off the balance for everyone in the same party, until your party size reaches the max group size of the trip.

For just $6 or less, you'll be ready to go with an actionable itinerary AND travel buddies you'll get along with.

That's like HOURS ⏰ of trip planning and HUNDREDS OF DOLLARS 💰 on travel agency SAVED ✅

View All Autopilot Adventures