California’s Snowiest National Park: A Hidden Winter Wonderland. And yet, while you might dream of fairytale Swiss villages turning into winter wonderlands overnight, the coldest season is actually quite beautiful at California’s snowiest national park. Practically pulsing with energy, Lassen Volcanic National Park is California’s most underrated, and in the winter, it is a great place to strap on your snowshoes or break out your sled, thanks to the towering peak of Mount Lassen almost guaranteeing a staggering snowfall. This incredible park can receive up to 30 feet of snow, and if you can tolerate the cold, you might get to see some of its most incredible features entirely to yourself.
The area’s heavy snow remains for more than half a year before melting out as the weather warms up. It fills rivers and lakes, creating a well-balanced ecosystem in the park, something that could not possibly occur without it. To enjoy the park at its winter best, you should consider planning your visit in December, January, February, or March.
What to do in Lassen Volcanic National Park in winter
Whether you are looking for an adventure with your hiking buddies or a serene solo trip, there is plenty to do in Lassen Volcanic National Park. Snowshoers and cross-country skiers love exploring this park, while daredevils rocket down slopes on skis, snowboards, and sleds. Those looking for a good, easy region to explore should visit the Manzanita Lake Area. The whole family can go sledding at Chaos Jumbles, but those seeking more of a challenge should try Eskimo Hill.
If you want to see more of the park, try some of the trails in the southwest region. This region can be dangerous in winter, but it offers deeper snow, steeper slopes, and much more incredible views. This part of the park is not exactly a place to visit during winter, yet visiting during this quiet time means one can visit the hydrotimes of the park without having to worry over crowds. While the bulk of the park is heavy with snow, the mud pool is kept warm by Lassen Volcanic National Park volcanic activity.
Do not forget to prepare on the harsh winter conditions
While a unique and otherworldly experience, Lassen Volcanic National Park during the dead of winter is also a pretty arduous journey. You will expect a mean low temperature of approximately 20 degrees Fahrenheit throughout the winter months and it only gets colder with altitude up the mountain. Depending on where and when you go, you can find deep areas of snow, and there are risks like sledding accidents and avalanches. To ensure that you’re as safe as you can be in the park, it’s important to be prepared for the extreme winter conditions and closed roads.
Always check what the weather and road conditions will be like, and check in at the Kohm Yah-mah-nee Visitor Center before heading out. It’s a good idea to check the weather forecast and make sure you don’t get caught in an avalanche. You can also check out the free training information from the National Avalanche Center. It is advisable to carry waterproof layers, hat, and sunscreen. Cotton-based clothes are breathable and cozy but should be avoided, as they tend to trap moisture, which is a critical issue in winter conditions.
