Lassen County Travel Guide

Explore the cultural attractions, natural wonders, hiking/biking routes, food, accommodations, and more in California's Lassen County with our ultimate travel guide.


Introduction to Lassen County

Nestled in the northeastern part of California, Lassen County is a hidden gem that offers some of the best outdoor and cultural experiences. It is part of the Shasta Cascades region, known for its beautiful mountains, breathtaking waterfalls, and endless recreational opportunities. Lassen County is also home to a rich culture, history, and traditions that are worth exploring. If you’re planning to visit the area, this travel guide will help you make the most out of your trip.

List of Places to Visit in Lassen County

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Lassen County Museum: A regional museum that showcases the history and culture of Lassen County and its surroundings. It features exhibits on mining, logging, and ranching industries, as well as artifacts from the Native American tribes that once inhabited the area.

  • Fort Sage Historical State Park: A state park that houses the remains of an 1860s military post and provides insight into the military and social history of the region. Visitors can also hike, birdwatch, and fish in the surrounding land.

Natural Attractions of Lassen County: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Lassen Volcanic National Park: A breathtaking national park that showcases the beauty and diversity of the Cascade Range. It features volcanic peaks, hot springs, crystal clear lakes, and meadows filled with wildflowers. Visitors can hike, ski, camp, and fish in the park.

  • Eagle Lake: A beautiful lake that offers some of the best fishing and boating opportunities in the area. It is also a popular spot for camping, hiking, and birdwatching.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Lassen County

  • Bizz Johnson Trail: A 26-mile trail that follows the route of an old railroad line through scenic canyons and forests. It is suitable for hiking, biking, and horseback riding.

  • Lassen Peak Trail: A challenging 5-mile uphill hike that rewards hikers with stunning views of the surrounding landscape and Lassen Peak, one of the most active volcanoes in the area.

Best Things to Do in Lassen County: Activities and Tours

  • Lassen Dark Sky Festival: A yearly event that celebrates the beauty of the night sky and the importance of protecting it. It features stargazing, educational talks, and activities for all ages.

  • Fly Fishing: The area offers some of the best fly fishing opportunities in the state. Hire a local guide to show you the best spots and techniques.

Week-Long Itinerary for Lassen County

Day Activity
1 Visit Lassen Volcanic National Park and hike to Bumpass Hell
2 Explore the Lassen County Museum and Fort Sage Historical State Park
3 Go fishing at Eagle Lake and take a leisurely hike around the lake
4 Attend the Lassen Dark Sky Festival
5 Bike the Bizz Johnson Trail and have a picnic lunch in the forest
6 Drive to Mount Shasta and visit the castle-like McCloud Hotel
7 Take a scenic drive and have a picnic at Hat Creek Rim Lookout

Food and Drink Scene of Lassen County

Must-Try Dishes

  • Basque Cuisine: Lassen County has a strong Basque heritage, and many restaurants in the area serve traditional dishes such as chorizo, lamb stew, and paella.

  • Beef Jerky: The area is known for its high-quality beef jerky. You can find it in local markets and specialty stores.

Local Beverages

  • Local Wine: The area has several wineries that produce high-quality wines from locally grown grapes.

  • Craft Beer: Lassen County has a growing craft beer scene, with several microbreweries and taprooms that offer unique and flavorful beers.

Where to Stay in Lassen County: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  • Diamond Mountain Casino Hotel and Brewery: A hotel that features a casino, a brewery, and comfortable rooms with great views of the surrounding mountains.

  • Antelope Creek Lodge: A rustic lodge that offers comfortable and cozy rooms, a hot tub, and a sauna.

What to Buy in Lassen County: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Honey: The area produces some of the best honey in the state. You can find it in local markets and farmers’ markets.

  • Lassen County Memorabilia: Bring home a piece of Lassen County’s history and culture by purchasing locally made crafts, pottery, and art.

Local Culture and Customs of Lassen County

  • Basque Culture: Lassen County has a strong Basque heritage, and the local culture is heavily influenced by Basque traditions and customs.

  • Cowboy Culture: Lassen County has a rich ranching and cowboy history. You can experience this culture through rodeos, agricultural fairs, and cowboy festivals held throughout the year.

Best Time to Visit Lassen County

The best time to visit Lassen County is from May to October when the weather is mild and most of the outdoor activities are available. However, if you’re interested in winter sports such as skiing and snowshoeing, visit from December to March.

Do’s and Don’ts of Lassen County

Do:

  • Respect the local culture and traditions.

  • Follow the Leave No Trace principles when hiking and exploring the outdoors.

Don’t:

  • Disrupt wildlife or their habitats.

  • Venture off-trail in sensitive areas.

Safety and Health

Safety in Lassen County

  • Be aware of the potential hazards of outdoor activities such as hiking, fishing, and boating.

  • Follow fire safety guidelines, especially during the dry summer months.

Health in Lassen County

  • The area is at high altitude, so be cautious of altitude sickness symptoms.

  • Carry enough water and stay hydrated to avoid heat illnesses during the summer months.

Getting to Lassen County: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Lassen County

  • Reno-Tahoe International Airport: A major airport located 130 miles south of Lassen County.

  • Redding Municipal Airport: A regional airport located 90 miles west of Lassen County.

Bus Stations Near Lassen County

  • Greyhound Bus Lines: Provides services to several cities near Lassen County.

  • Amtrak Thruway Bus: Provides services from Sacramento to several cities near Lassen County.

Other Options

  • Driving: Lassen County is easily accessible by car from several major cities in California and Nevada.

  • Rental Cars: Several car rental companies operate in the area.

How to Get Around in Lassen County

The best way to get around Lassen County is by car. If you don’t have your own vehicle, you can rent a car or hire a taxi or a shuttle service.

Where to Go Next from Lassen County: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Mount Shasta: A majestic mountain located 100 miles north of Lassen County. It offers hiking, skiing, and climbing opportunities.

  • Lake Tahoe: A beautiful lake located 150 miles south of Lassen County. It is known for its crystal clear water, stunning scenery, and recreational opportunities.

Conclusion

Lassen County offers a unique blend of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and recreational opportunities. Whether you’re a history buff, an outdoor enthusiast, or a food lover, you’ll find something to enjoy in this lesser-known corner of California. Use this travel guide to plan your ultimate Lassen County adventure.