The Bumpass Hell Trail leads to the largest hydrothermal area in Lassen Volcanic National Park. Winter conditions persist into early summer, so it’s important to plan your hike with these conditions in mind. Of course, the Bumpass Hell Trail is just one of the great hikes in the Lassen area. The park has over 150 miles of trails- something for every age and ability. This national park offers it all, whether you seek a mellow meander or a heart-pumping ascent.

Lassen National Park in Northern California is less crowded than other California parks. Home to the largest plug dome volcano in the world, the park is largely known for its volcanic features. It’s one of the few places in the world where you can see all four types of volcanos. It’s also a great place to observe the rich diversity of plant and animal life. Due to its location and geological factors, many habitats exist in this stunning park.

After your outdoor adventure, head to our historic lodge, which has been welcoming outdoor enthusiasts since the 1920s. Our cozy lodge is one of the closest hotels near the park, providing a comfortable alternative to camping. There’s nothing better than a hot shower to soothe aching muscles after your invigorating hike on the Bumpass Hell Trail. Enjoy hearty, warm meals prepared for you in a charming, rustic bed and breakfast. The on-site tavern is the perfect place to grab a meal and drink. Reserve your room now.

 

 

 

What to Know Before You Hike the Bumpass Trail

The Bumpass Hell Trail is a beautiful trail with a strange name. An early settler, Kendall VanHook Bumpass, discovered the geothermal area when he was searching for lost cattle. His leg broke through a geothermal area and was so badly scalded that it needed to be amputated. On his return home, he told the other settlers, “Boys, I have been in Hell.” Now one of the most popular destinations in the park, we bet he wishes he’d never come across it!

The Bumpass Hell Trailhead parking lot is 7 miles from the Southwest entrance of Lassen Volcanic National Park. Due to the high elevation and amount of snowpack, trail opening dates vary. The area is usually closed through the spring and opens for the season in early July. We recommend checking the conditions on the park’s website for alerts. If there are closures, they are noted at the top of the page. The trail usually remains open through fall. There are never any guarantees with nature, but you should be safe to plan your Bumpass Trail Hike between mid-July and the end of September.

The three-mile round trip Bumpass Trail Hike will take about two hours. The easy-moderate packed gravel trail starts with a gradual climb for the first mile and then is a 200-foot descent into the basin. The bubbling mud pots, boiling pools, and steaming fumaroles are an unforgettable, otherworldly sight! Though the ground may look solid, it’s brittle. Stay on the boardwalks to stay safe.

 

 

 

More Lassen Volcanic National Park Hikes

With over 150 miles of trails in Lassen Volcanic National Park, Bumpass Hell Trail is just one option. If the parking lot is full or the trail is closed, stop by one of these other trails.

Kid-friendly or Easy Hikes

1. Sulphur Works—This paved trail is the easiest geothermal area to access. It is wheelchair accessible and kid-friendly; this walk takes about 10 minutes.  The vibrant colors will astound even those turned off by the pungent aroma.
2. Manzanita Lake Loop-
3. Kings Creek Falls
4. Lily Pond Interpretive Trail
5. Devastated Area Interpetative Trail

Moderate Hikes

1. Mill Creek Falls
2. Kings Creek Falls

Difficult Hikes

1. Cinder Cone Trail
2. Lassen Peak