Trail

Walk Manzanita Lake Trail

Trail
A looks out on a brush-lined lake backed by volcanic peaks.

Walk around pristine alpine lake at 5,900 feet with views of Lassen Peak and Chaos Crags volcanoes. Zero elevation gain but high-altitude sun exposure demands hydration discipline. Family-friendly route with frequent wildlife watching (deer, squirrels, songbirds, raptors) and world-class sunset viewing with alpenglow reflection.

Quick facts

Distance Miles
1.7
Route Type
Loop around Manzanita Lake
Difficulty Level
Easy walk in the park—flat terrain, family-friendly, zero elevation gain.
Elevation Gain Feet
0

Trail profile

Distance Miles
1.7
Route Type
Loop around Manzanita Lake
Difficulty Level
Easy walk in the park—flat terrain, family-friendly, zero elevation gain.
Elevation Gain Feet
0
Estimated Time
1 hour for the complete loop at steady pace. Allow 30-45 minutes if moving quickly, or 2+ hours for sunset viewing and wildlife photography.
Trail Surface
Firm dirt with tree roots and exposed rocks in places. Generally well-maintained but narrow sections require attention to foot placement.
Trail Features
  • Scenic views of Lassen Peak
  • Scenic views of Chaos Crags volcanoes
  • Alpine lake setting
  • Wildlife viewing (black-tailed deer, squirrels, songbirds, raptors, waterbirds)
  • Sunset alpenglow display
Trail Highlights
Iconic views of Lassen Peak and Chaos Crags volcanoes. Outstanding sunset viewing with alpenglow reflection on still water. Strong wildlife watching opportunities (black-tailed deer, Douglas squirrels, golden-mantled ground squirrels, songbirds, raptors, waterbirds).

Trailhead & access

Trailhead Location
Manzanita Lake Picnic Area/Boat Launch (recommended primary access) or Loomis Plaza. From park highway, turn right after Loomis Plaza entrance onto Manzanita Lake Campground Road, continue 0.5 miles, turn right into picnic area.
Parking Lot Size
Manzanita Lake Picnic Area has primary parking (boat launch access). Loomis Plaza has secondary lot, often full summer season.
Parking Fill Time
Manzanita Lake lot fills by 9-10 AM summer season. Loomis Plaza often full by 8 AM summer. Off-season typically available all day.
Shuttle Required
0
Shuttle Details
No shuttle required. Two parking trailheads available: Manzanita Lake Picnic Area/Boat Launch (easiest access, recommended for western shore views) or Loomis Plaza (0.5 miles away, often crowded summer).

Permits & conditions

Permit Details
No permits required.
Fees
$30 entrance fee (private vehicle, valid 7 consecutive days). Discounted $10 in winter. America the Beautiful annual pass accepted. No additional trail fee.
Trail Status
Open year-round. Road access limited November-May due to snow.
Seasonal Closures
Road closures typically November-May due to snow accumulation. Trail accessible year-round with winter gear (snowshoes, traction devices, trekking poles).

Facilities & rules

Restrooms At Trailhead
1
Water Sources
No water sources on trail. Manzanita Lake water is not potable. Carry all water (2L minimum recommended at this altitude).
Accessibility
Not wheelchair accessible. Trail narrow with tree roots, rocks, and obstacles. Strollers not suitable. Wheelchair-accessible parking and picnic area available at Manzanita Lake for viewing without hiking.

Safety & strategy

Hazards
  • High altitude (5,900 ft)
  • Limited shade/intense sun exposure
  • Narrow sections with tree roots and exposed rocks
  • Rocky uneven terrain
  • Dehydration risk
  • Altitude sickness potential
Hazard Details
Altitude (5,900 ft) can trigger headache, nausea, shortness of breath in unaccustomed visitors. Thin air increases dehydration risk significantly. Limited shade and high sun exposure accelerate water loss. Narrow rocky sections with tree roots/exposed rocks—proper footwear essential (ankle/knee injuries are most common park injuries). Cold winds possible in shoulder seasons.
Crowd Level
Moderate to busy, especially summer and sunset hours. Less crowded early morning or winter.
Peak Crowd Times
Summer season (June-August) and sunset hours year-round. Crowding peaks 10 AM-3 PM and 1 hour before sunset. Quietest: early morning or off-season winter.
Best Season
June through September for best access and weather. Year-round accessible with winter gear.
Best Time To Visit
Start early (before 8 AM) to avoid crowds and intense heat. Summer-fall (June-September) for reliable road access. Winter requires snowshoes. Arrive 1-2 hours before sunset for alpenglow magic—that's when Lassen Peak glows red and orange over the lake.
Tips Advice
  • Bring 2L water minimum—high-altitude dehydration sneaks fast. Thin air accelerates water loss.
  • Wear hat, sunscreen, proper footwear (closed-toe, good tread, ankle support). Shade is limited and sun intense.
  • Use trekking poles on rocky sections—tree roots and rocks increase ankle/knee injury risk (most common park injury).
  • Go early morning (6-7 AM) for solitude and active wildlife, or time sunset viewing 1-2 hours before dusk.

More details

Park Area
Manzanita Lake Area
Trail Markers
Well-marked and easy to follow. Trail is popular and well-worn. No navigation expertise required.
Dogs Allowed
No—park regulations prohibit pets on trails. Service animals assisting people with disabilities are permitted.
Biking Allowed
No—bikes not permitted on park trails.
Shade Level
Limited shade. Exposed sun, especially western shore. Hat and sunscreen essential. Water loss is rapid at high elevation with full sun.
Emergency Contacts
Dial 911 for emergencies. Park ranger presence at Loomis Plaza/Museum area.
Map Recommended
0
Snow Dates
Snow typically present December-April. Can linger through May in heavy snow years. Snowshoes and traction devices essential for winter hiking.
Insider Tips
  • Sunset magic: arrive 1-2 hours before sunset. Western shore gets alpenglow on Lassen Peak 10-15 minutes before official sunset—that's the money shot.
  • Park at boat launch for direct western shore access with best volcano views. Loomis Plaza is often full summer parking.
  • Early morning 6-7 AM: solitude and active wildlife. Bring binoculars for birds and mammals.
  • NPS website has 360-degree trail photos—study them for photo planning.
  • Trekking poles significantly help rocky sections—recommended for anyone over 50 or with joint concerns.
Family Friendly Notes
Excellent for families with young children. Use backpack carriers for infants/toddlers (stroller-unsuitable terrain). Trail is easy but narrow spots require supervision. No severe drop-offs, but rocky ground needs attention to foot placement.
Nearby Facilities
Restrooms at Manzanita Lake Picnic Area and Loomis Plaza. Loomis Museum nearby. Manzanita Lake Campground 0.5 miles away. Boat launch at picnic area. Drinking water available at Manzanita Lake Picnic Area.
Review Summary
Hikers praise the easy accessibility, volcano views, and world-class sunsets. Popular among families and photographers. Most noted challenge: altitude and sun exposure. Visitors consistently mention bringing double their normal water supply.

Location

Frequently asked questions

Is this too easy to be interesting?

Not if you want volcanoes. The views are world-class. Easy just means low physical demand—not boring.

Can I bring young kids?

Yes. Use backpack carriers for toddlers (no strollers). Keep close on narrow sections. No severe hazards for kids old enough to walk.

Will I get altitude sickness at 5,900 feet?

Possible for first-timers. Take it slow, drink water constantly, take breaks. If headache or nausea worsens, descend. Most adjust within 30 minutes.

What's the minimum water I should carry?

2 liters minimum. At this altitude and sun exposure, dehydration happens fast. More is better. Many hikers bring 3L.

When is sunset viewing best?

June-July has longest sunsets and best alpenglow window. Plan arrival 1-2 hours before sunset. Expect crowds at sunset hours.

Can I bring my dog?

No. Park regulations prohibit pets on trails. Service animals assisting disabled visitors are the only exception.

Is this snow-covered in winter?

Yes, typically December-April. Snowshoes or traction devices required. Trail is accessible but harder, and road access may be limited.

Cinder Cone Trail

Volcanic scramble to Cinder Cone summit with earned panoramic views. Grit required—loose cinders drain fast.

Sources

Information is compiled from official sources, verified traveler reviews, and editorial research. Learn how YourNPGuide works.

Last updated July 2026. Report an issue.