We found this perfect trail to conclude our road trip located near the north entrance of Lassen Volcanic National Park.
We picked up a fabulous map and set off to meander the self-guided interpretive trail through the origin of the Hat Creek Lava Flow.
Oh man, the cool things we saw: spatter cones, craters, wildflowers, butterflies, and a beautiful view of the Hat Creek Valley.
The Loop trail, approximately 1.7 miles long, guided us along the fissure of a young volcano (erupted 30,000 years ago). It was so interesting to look into the opening of a lava tube and feel cool air ooze out. Refreshing and intriguing.
We were so impressed with the variety and the fragility of the wildflowers that grew in such a harsh environment.
It was an embarrassment of butterflies and I was a very happy hiker!
There is always a sense of accomplishment to hike the Pacific Crest Trail, if even briefly.
The map indicates 17 stops with educational facts along the way. Steve is perched along Steep Cone, the largest crater and the most dramatic of the Spatter cones. It is 95 feet in diameter though this photo can't possible do it justice.
Every high point on the horizon is the relic of a volcanic eruption. This hike provided an exceptional view of snow-covered Lassen Peak. Wow.
It also provided us with a pretty unique picnic spot.
Of all the Spatter Cones Trail features, Spatter Tube is a microcosm of the area's volcanic history.
The diversity of this five day road trip exceeded all expectations. It just confirms that there is so much left to be discovered... challenge accepted!
"Wilderness is not a luxury
but a necessity of the human spirit,
and as vital to our lives as water and good bread."
- Edward Abbey
posted under |
1 comments:
Nice find on that nature trail! We drove by that one too! Ha. Next time, next time...
So interesting and beautiful. Love it.
Now, about that picnic spot. Unique yes, comfortable, not so much. :)
Post a Comment