A Smoky August Trip to Lassen Volcanic National Park

We drove into Lassen Volcanic National Park in early August of 2020. The first thing we noticed, even before reaching the park boundary, was the smoke. A massive plume was rising from a wildfire burning in the nearby forests, a stark and dramatic sight against the otherwise clear blue sky.

After stopping for the obligatory photos at the park entrance sign, we headed in. The smoke was a constant presence on the horizon from the higher elevations, but down where we were, the sun was bright. The park itself felt rugged and ancient under the summer sun.

We spent the day hiking. One trail took us through a wide-open, rocky meadow that was completely covered in purple wildflowers. A dirt path cut right through the middle of it. Later, we explored the geothermal areas, which felt like a different planet. We walked on boardwalks built over the fragile, steaming ground.

The landscape there is barren and colorful, with steaming vents and milky, vibrant blue pools of water set against the surrounding pine forests. It's a strange and quiet place, a reminder of the volcanic forces just below the surface. A memorable trip, framed by the smoke in the distance.