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Northern California Hiking|Nature

The One Hike In Northern California That's Sure To Leave You Feeling Accomplished

By Jill S. | Published May 16, 2017

Northern California is an amazing place for hiking and outdoor adventurers. We have hundreds of hard, grueling hikes at our finger tips, but this hike in Lassen Volcanic National Park will reward your efforts with amazing views of the southern Cascades. Pull on those hiking boots and stretch your muscles for this exciting climb up Lassen Peak.

Lassen Peak is a volcano and the highest point in Lassen Volcanic National Park.

The mountain is 10,457 feet at summit. Your hike will start at 8500 feet at trailhead, so you will gain about 2,000 feet in elevation over the 2.5 miles to the summit.

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It's a pretty challenging hike and the elevation makes it even harder, but it's still doable without any technical training or equipment.

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Hikers should budget about 3 to 5 hours to hike the 5 mile round trip. Remember to bring snacks, plenty of water, sun protection, and a light jacket for the higher elevations.

The best time to hike this route is between June and September when it's decent weather and most of the snow has melted.

The challenging hike can be a feat, but the views at the top are well worth the tough climb.

Keep an eye out for this handy marker, which will let you know that you have made it to the top and all the work is behind you.

There's no shade, so prepare to be exposed to the sun for the duration of your climb.

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As you hike, be sure to stop every once in a while to take in the absolutely breath taking views.

While Lassen Peak is the highest in the area, your hike will bring you up and over several other surrounding mountains.

If you are new to hikes over 10,000 feet, this will be a great first 10k peak to "bag," as mountain climbers call successfully summiting hard hikes.

All in all, this is a must do for hikers in Northern California who are fit and able. Lassen Peak is a strong example of why there is no other place like Northern California for outdoor recreation.

Take a look at this helpful video of this epic and exciting hike:

Have you ever climbed Lassen Peak? Where is your favorite hike in Northern California? Be sure to share with us on Facebook or in the comments below.

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