Sledding & Snowplay in the Manzanita Lake Area

The Manzanita Lake Area (5,800 feet elevation) consists of gentle terrain and scenic vistas. It offers the easiest routes for snowshoeing and cross-country skiing in the park. Vehicle access in the park is limited to the Southwest and Manzanita Lake areas in the snowy winter and spring seasons (usually December through April). A parking area is located adjacent to the Loomis Plaza, which offers 24-hour restrooms with water. There are no visitor services in the Manzanita Lake Area November through mid-May. Sledding Small hills on the northern shore of Manzanita Lake and in the Chaos Jumbles Area can be fun with small children or those new to sledding. Steeper terrain can be found at the popular Eskimo Hill snow play area in Lassen National Forest, located 1.2 miles east of the park turnoff on Highway 44/89. Sled with caution; sledding is the number one cause of visitor injury in the winter season. Winter Safety - Play it Safe Visiting Lassen Volcanic National Park in the winter/spring snow season involves risk. You can reduce your risk by being prepared in the following ways: Plan for winter driving conditions including ice or snow hazards. Visit the Cal Trans website for current highway conditions. Be prepared for winter conditions at high elevation in a remote area. Choose a route that is appropriate for your skill level and ability. Practice avalanche safety if traveling beyond established routes or in steep terrain. Winter Etiquette Improve everyone's safety and enjoyment by adhering to the following winter etiquette recommendations: Do not walk on ski tracks. Footprints and snowshoe tracks create hazards that make skiing more difficult. Snowshoe parallel to the ski track. Using a separate track ensures snowshoers remain clear of downhill skiers. Yield to faster skiers or downhill traffic. Step to the side to allow skiers traveling downhill to safely pass. In all other cases, yield to those traveling uphill, as they are working harder and have the right of way.