Lassen Volcanic Park
Yesterday, was one of the longer drives between parks, but Lassen Volcanic Park was definitely my surprise park of the trip. I may even place this as my #1 park in California. This national park contains 4 different types of volcanos with Lassen Peak/Volcano towering over everything at over 10,000 feet. Just before, we arrived, to our surprise, Amber informed us that the road through the park is still closed because of snow. They are currently plowing, but the road will not be open until the morning we leave. This is both frustrating and an unexpected gift. Because of the road closure, we must do this park in chunks depending upon what entrance we use creating more driving. Plus, its signature trail is still closed. They do not want you to fall through the snow into a steam vent.
On the flip side, there is still less crowds, the snow is absolutely beautiful, and the main road becomes a large relaxing trail to Helen Lake which itself is still frozen. As we walk the road, it is so peaceful. Maybe it’s because you expect this road to be filled with traffic, it feels like a deserted place, a lost treasure that you find for yourself. We hike up the road beyond the lake to look back down. Lake Helen has a beautiful turquoise color broken up by snow and ice. The mountain peaks in the background look even more perfect because of the snow. In fact, my hunch is that this park is not near as beautiful without the snow. But right now, I am loving it. After the crowds of Yosemite, I feel connected and at peace again.
Eli enjoyed some time perched on a rock overlooking it all as Amber and Josh enjoyed making a snowman. They were very proud of their creation.
On the way down, we stop off at Sulphur Works. It’s funny to watch Josh and Eli. They are disgusted by the sulphur smell. It was fun to make them stand still for the picture and thus taking in the fullness of the smell. I warned them before we arrived. Amber is just as amusing as she is fascinated by the bubbling mud.
Later this night, we go back out to see the stars. We are staying at a bed and breakfast. Our wonderful host recommends a spot in the park where the night sky is even darker. We were not disappointed. The number of stars filled the sky. Amber, Eli, Josh and I enjoyed spending close to an hour under the stars. We got there as they began to appear, and it was fun to watch the sky fill up. My only disappointment. I was hoping to see the Milky Way.
On the flip side, there is still less crowds, the snow is absolutely beautiful, and the main road becomes a large relaxing trail to Helen Lake which itself is still frozen. As we walk the road, it is so peaceful. Maybe it’s because you expect this road to be filled with traffic, it feels like a deserted place, a lost treasure that you find for yourself. We hike up the road beyond the lake to look back down. Lake Helen has a beautiful turquoise color broken up by snow and ice. The mountain peaks in the background look even more perfect because of the snow. In fact, my hunch is that this park is not near as beautiful without the snow. But right now, I am loving it. After the crowds of Yosemite, I feel connected and at peace again.
Eli enjoyed some time perched on a rock overlooking it all as Amber and Josh enjoyed making a snowman. They were very proud of their creation.
On the way down, we stop off at Sulphur Works. It’s funny to watch Josh and Eli. They are disgusted by the sulphur smell. It was fun to make them stand still for the picture and thus taking in the fullness of the smell. I warned them before we arrived. Amber is just as amusing as she is fascinated by the bubbling mud.
Later this night, we go back out to see the stars. We are staying at a bed and breakfast. Our wonderful host recommends a spot in the park where the night sky is even darker. We were not disappointed. The number of stars filled the sky. Amber, Eli, Josh and I enjoyed spending close to an hour under the stars. We got there as they began to appear, and it was fun to watch the sky fill up. My only disappointment. I was hoping to see the Milky Way.
