Looking for an epic road trip with stunning nature, cool geology, urban myths and friendly communities? The Volcanic Byway in Northern California and Southern Oregon is the perfect spot for your next adventure. Shaped by millions of years of volcanic activity, this region is packed with mysterious tales, soaring peaks, lava flows, caves, bubbling mudpots, and steaming fumaroles. The best part? No crowds.
Between Lassen Volcanic National Park and Crater Lake National Park lies the Volcanic Legacy Scenic Byway. This awe-inspiring drive takes you through some of the most beautiful and desolate landscapes in the US. You’ll pass two national parks, one national monument, and the massive Mount Shasta, along with countless state parks, caves, lakes, and waterfalls. It’s a true adventurer's dream!
The Volcanic Byway is one of just 42 All-American Roads in the country. As you travel, you’ll drive through dense forests, wetlands, clear streams, and pastoral farms. Unlike the overcrowded parks in Utah or central California, this route offers wide-open spaces and few people, making it a perfect escape from the beaten path.
Ready to start this incredible journey? Visit our website and book your accommodations today! Let us help you plan your trip with free travel advice and insider tips to make the most of your adventure on the Volcanic Byway. Your next unforgettable experience is just a click away.
Day 1-3: Lassen Volcanic National Park
You won’t believe how underrated Lassen Volcanic National Park is! With its stunning views, incredible volcanic activity, and awesome birdwatching and wildflowers, it’s a total gem for anyone who loves nature and hiking.
Since it’s one of the newest national parks in the U.S., established in 1916, Lassen has a cool volcanic history. Mount Lassen, one of the biggest volcanoes in the Cascade Range, had some dramatic eruptions in the early 20th century, making this park a hot spot for geothermal wonders.
To really soak it all in, plan for at least a 3-day trip. Kick off your adventure in the southern part of the Volcanic Byway with a visit to Lassen Volcanic National Park. Stay at the cozy
Alpine Estate, just 10 minutes from the park’s southwest entrance—it’s the perfect spot to use as your base. From there, dive into the park’s amazing geothermal features, hit the scenic trails, and enjoy the breathtaking views that make this park so special.
Stay: Alpine Estate by Homestead Hideaways
Places to Eat: Highlands Ranch Restaurant & Bar
Things to Do In/Around Lassen National Park:
- Mountain Biking in Susanville: Hit the trails in Susanville for an exhilarating mountain biking experience.
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Lazy Lizard Trail in Susanville[/caption]
- Climb Mount Lassen:
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View from the top of Mount Lassen with a Pika![/caption]
Challenge yourself with a climb up Mount Lassen and enjoy panoramic views of the park. Look carefully and you might see a pika! Keep your eyes peeled and your ears open—you might catch a glimpse of these adorable creatures darting among the rocks or hear their distinctive calls while exploring Lassen Peak! Mount Lassen is featured in an episode on The Travel Channel show Mysteries of the Outdoors, which explores an urban myth about sentient reptiles, or reptoids. According to the show, these malevolent beings are rumored to collaborate with extraterrestrials to control humanity by planting mind-controlled agents on Mount Lassen. Watch the episode about this urban myth here!
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- Trail Info: The hike up to Lassen Peak is a bit of a toughie but totally worth it! It’s about 5.6 miles round trip with some steep and rocky parts, so be ready to sweat. The view from the top is epic!
- Pro Tip: Hit the trail early to dodge the crowds and the heat. Dress in layers because the weather can switch up fast. And keep your eyes peeled for pikas—these little guys are a fun find along the way!
- Sulphur Works: At Sulphur Works, you’ll encounter a fascinating display of bubbling mud pots and steaming fumaroles. This geothermal hotspot showcases the park's volcanic activity with its bubbling, sulfur-rich mud and steam vents, creating a striking and sulfurous landscape that’s both intriguing and a bit otherworldly.
- Trail Info: While there’s no specific trail for Sulphur Works itself, the area serves as the trailhead for the Sulphur Works to Twin Lakes hike. This longer trek covers about 8 miles round trip and offers a more challenging hike through diverse terrain.
- Pro Tip: The area can be quite aromatic due to the sulfur, so be prepared for a strong rotten egg smell. (still totally worth a visit)
- Bumpass Hell:. Boiling mudpots, steaming acid pools, and technicolor sands all come together to make Bumpass Hell an incredible sight. Bumpass Hell gets its eerie name from Kendall Vanhook Bumpass, who had a dramatic and unfortunate encounter with the area’s treacherous terrain. In the late 19th century, Bumpass, a local settler and explorer, was guiding visitors through the volcanic landscape when he fell through the thin crust of a boiling mud pot. The accident left him with severe burns, highlighting the danger of the geothermal features in this area. These days, the National Park has built boardwalks over the crust to protect visitors from Bumpass' scorching demise.
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Bumpass Hell in Technicolor[/caption]
- Trail Info: 3 miles round trip, moderately strenuous with some steep sections.
- Pro Tip: Arrive early to get a good parking spot and beat the crowds.
- Battle Creek Swimming Hole: Dive in at the nearby waterfall and deep pool right off Highway 36. Shhh! This is a secret spot that few people know about. It's also an excellent trout fishing hole. The swimming hole can be accessed from Forest Service road 140A and Battle Creek Campground, both a few miles west of Mineral.
Day 4: Burney-McArthur Falls
Nestled along the scenic Volcanic Byway, Burney McArthur Falls is a must-see spot known for its breathtaking 129-foot cascade. Named after pioneer settler Samuel Burney, this wonder is fed by underground springs, ensuring a stunning flow of water all year round. The falls are part of McArthur-Burney Falls Memorial State Park, established in 1926 to protect this natural gem.
There is an interesting legend associated with Burney Falls involving the famous actor and Olympic swimmer Johnny Weissmuller, who played Tarzan in the 1930s films. The legend claims that
Weissmuller once dove off Burney Falls during the filming of one of his Tarzan movies. While this story is well-known, there is no concrete evidence to support it. In fact, the freezing water of Burney Creek makes it highly unlikely that Weissmuller, a Hollywood star, would have performed such a dangerous stunt. Despite the lack of proof, this tale adds an intriguing layer to the allure of Burney Falls!
Things to Do at Burney Falls:
- Hike the Burney Falls Loop (Note: this trail is closed for refurbishment in 2024)
- Trail Info: 1 mile round trip, easy and accessible for all hikers.
- Pro Tip: Visit early or late in the day to avoid crowds and catch the falls in perfect light. Wear sturdy shoes, as the mist can make the trail slippery. Don’t forget your camera for some amazing shots!
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Burney Falls and its majesty[/caption]
Day 4: Mount Shasta (the town, and the mountain)
Next up, head to the stunning Mount Shasta and settle into the charming town of the same name. Whether you’re a geology geek ready to dive into the mountain’s history or just want to kick back and enjoy the view, there’s something here for everyone. Adventure seekers and chill-out enthusiasts alike will find plenty to do.
But, really we have to talk about the mysterious mountain dwellers. What are they? Some locals and visitors claim that a hidden race of ancient beings, sometimes referred to as the “Shasta People,” that inhabit the mountain’s remote areas. According to the myth, these beings are a mix of Native American lore and 19th-century explorer tales. People say they’ve seen strange lights and heard unexplained noises on the mountain, sparking stories about these elusive inhabitants.
While there’s no scientific evidence to back up these claims, it certainly adds an air of mystery to your hiking adventures. Keep your eyes peeled and your imagination open—you never know what you might encounter on Mount Shasta!
Things to do in Mount Shasta (Town/Mountain):
- Fifth Season Outdoor Store:
- Before hitting the trails, swing by Fifth Season. It’s the go-to spot for all your outdoor gear needs. From climbing gear to the latest in hiking apparel, they’ve got you covered.
- Nosh:
- Yak’s Shack: Craving some tasty, no-fuss food? Yak’s Shack has got you with its laid-back vibe and delicious comfort eats.
- Bistro 107: Looking for something a bit more upscale? Bistro 107 serves up great food in a cozy setting—perfect for a nice dinner or a relaxed lunch.
- Lake Siskiyou: Chill out at Lake Siskiyou, where you can kick back on the sandy beach and soak up awesome views of Mount Shasta. The lake, which was created in the '60s when they built the Siskiyou Dam, is a great spot for hanging out, swimming, and having a picnic.There’s a small fee to park for the day, but it’s totally worth it for the relaxed vibe and stunning scenery. Whether you want to splash around, go for a paddle, or just enjoy the view, Lake Siskiyou’s got you covered.Hiking Mount Shasta: For those who love a good hike, the trails on Mount Shasta are incredible. Whether you’re up for a tough climb or a scenic stroll, you’ll get amazing views and a solid dose of outdoor fun.
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Mount Shasta[/caption]
Stop 4: Discover Fantastic Lava Beds National Monument
Continue your journey north to the incredible Fantastic Lava Beds National Monument. This unique area is best explored as a day trip due to the limited nearby amenities.
Things to Do at Fantastic Lava Beds National Monument:
- Explore the extensive lava tube caves.
- Visit the historic battlefields.
- Discover the petroglyphs and learn about the region's rich cultural history.
Stop 5: Crater Lake National Park
Your final stop on the Volcanic Byway is the breathtaking Crater Lake National Park in Southern Oregon. Known for its deep blue water and stunning vistas, Crater Lake offers plenty of activities and places to stay.
Things to Do at Crater Lake:
- Rim Drive: Take a scenic drive around the rim of the lake for unparalleled views.
- Boat Tours: Join a boat tour to Wizard Island for a unique perspective of the lake.
- Hiking: Explore the numerous hiking trails, ranging from easy walks to challenging hikes.
- Snowshoeing and Cross-Country Skiing: In the winter, enjoy snowshoeing or cross-country skiing.
Where to Stay:
- Crater Lake Lodge: Stay at the historic Crater Lake Lodge for a cozy and convenient location within the park.
- Camping: For a more rustic experience, consider camping at one of the park's campgrounds.
Final Thoughts
The Volcanic Byway offers a diverse and exciting journey through some of the most geologically fascinating regions of Northern California and Southern Oregon. Whether you're an adventurer, a nature lover, or simply looking to relax in beautiful surroundings, this route has something for everyone. Pack your bags, gear up, and get ready to explore the wonders of the Volcanic Byway!
by Eric Hedstrand
