90 MinutesFee applies
Hike to Bumpass Hell
Lassen Volcanic National Park
Hike the three-mile, round-trip trail to the largest hydrothermal area in the park.
Bumpass Hell Trail Start: Bumpass Hell parking area, 7 miles from the Southwest Entrance Round-trip Distance: 3 miles Round-trip Time: 2 hours Terrain: Gradual climb first mile then 200-foot descent into basin Elevation: 8,200 - 8,400 feet Trail Surface: Packed gravel Width: 48" to basin overlook; trails into basin are narrow Season: Approximately late July through October 360-degree photos of the basin Bumpass Hell Trail provides access to the largest hydrothermal area in the park. The trail is open in the late summer and fall only. Learn more about the winter/spring closure. Parking for this popular trail is limited and is often full mid-morning to early afternoon, especially on weekends. The three-mile, round-trip hike is easy to moderate in difficulty and is popular with hikers of all ages. Vault toilets are available only at the trailhead, there are no restrooms on the trail or in the basin. Pets are not permitted on any park trails. How to Hike This Trail Safely Hiking the Bumpass Hell Trail involves risk. Learn more about general hiking safely in this high-elevation and remote park. Special considerations for this hydrothermal area include: Shade is limited on this trail. Hikers are encouraged to wear or bring a hat and carry water. Winter conditions can persist through the summer months, especially in the forested sections of the trail. Wear proper footwear (good tread, ankle support, closed toe) and consider using trekking poles to help maintain balance. Knee and ankle injuries are the most common visitor injury in the park. Stay on established trails and boardwalks in/around the basin. Ground in hydrothermal areas can look solid but may actually be a thin crust hiding pools of acidic boiling water or mud. Visitors have been severely injured by traveling off-trail in these areas. Water and mud in hydrothermal areas is acidic. Do not put water or mud from park hydrothermal areas on your skin. Even water that is cool to the touch is acidic and can irritate or burn your skin with prolonged exposure. Hiking at high elevation can aggravate preexisting medical conditions. Know the effects of altitude. Carry plenty of water, take often, and do not exceed your abilities.
Tags
HikingTrailstrailhydrothermal areashydrothermal featuresscenic viewvolcanoes
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Details
Duration
90 Minutes
Duration Details
This 3-mile round-trip hike takes about 90 minutes. The exact time required depends on how quickly you walk, how often you stop, and how long you enjoy the basin.
Fees
There is no fee to hike the Bumpass Hell Trail. An entrance fee or valid pass is required to enter Lassen Volcanic National Park.
Fees Apply
No
Seasons
Summer, Fall
Time of Day
Day, Dawn, Dusk
Accessibility
The Bumpass Hell Trail is hardpacked dirt and rock. Most of the first mile is four feet wide, with minimal slope. The last half mile descends 300 feet into the basin and includes some rock steeps and steeper slopes. Service animals assisting a person with a disability are permitted on the trail.
Pets
No — Pets are not permitted on park trails, including in a carrier. This regulation does not apply to service animals assisting a person with a disability.
Reservations
No — There are no reservations for park entrance or to hike park trails.
Age Info
Visitors of all ages are able to enjoy this hike. Hikers 5 and older are often able to complete the first mile, but may need assistance for the 300-foot section in and out of the basin.
Location
Bumpass Hell Trail and Basin