Lassen National Park to Burney Falls offers a captivating journey through Northern California’s diverse landscapes. This route, spanning approximately 45 miles, takes travelers from the volcanic wonders of Lassen to the mesmerizing 129-foot Burney Falls. The trip combines scenic drives, hiking opportunities, and natural beauty, showcasing the region’s geological marvels and pristine wilderness. Visitors can explore Lassen’s hydrothermal areas before venturing to the awe-inspiring cascades of Burney Falls, making it an ideal excursion for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers alike.
What is the Best Route from Lassen National Park to Burney Falls?
The most direct and scenic route from Lassen National Park to Burney Falls is via Highway 89. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the journey:
- Exit Lassen National Park through the northwest entrance.
- Head north on Highway 89 towards Old Station.
- Continue on Highway 89 past Hat Creek and Old Station.
- After about 45 miles, turn right onto Highway 299 East.
- Drive for approximately 6 miles and turn left onto McArthur-Burney Falls Memorial State Park Road.
- Follow this road to the park entrance.
This route typically takes about 1 hour to 1 hour and 15 minutes, depending on traffic and road conditions. The drive offers stunning views of the Cascade Range and passes through picturesque forest landscapes.
What Are the Must-See Stops Along the Way?
While the drive from Lassen National Park to Burney Falls is relatively short, there are several noteworthy stops that can enhance your journey:
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Subway Cave: Located near Old Station, this lava tube cave offers a unique underground hiking experience.
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Hat Creek Rim Overlook: Provides panoramic views of the surrounding valley and distant mountains.
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Wild Horse Sanctuary: Near Shingletown, offering tours to see wild mustangs.
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Pit River: A scenic spot for fishing or a quick picnic break.
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Lake Britton: Just before reaching Burney Falls, this lake offers opportunities for swimming, boating, and fishing.
How Should I Plan My Visit to Burney Falls?
Planning your visit to Burney Falls requires consideration of several factors:
- Timing:
- Best visited in spring or early summer when water flow is at its peak.
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Avoid weekends and holidays if possible to escape crowds.
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Park Hours:
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Open sunrise to sunset daily.
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Entrance Fee:
- $10 per vehicle
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$9 for seniors (62+)
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Parking:
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Ample parking available near the main trailhead.
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Trail Access:
- As of 2024, the main Falls Loop Trail is closed for repairs until Fall.
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Rim Trail remains open, offering panoramic views.
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Facilities:
- Restrooms available near the main trailhead.
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Visitor center and general store on-site.
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Photography:
- Early morning or late afternoon for best lighting conditions.
What Hiking Options Are Available at Burney Falls?
Despite some trail closures, there are still hiking options available at Burney Falls:
- Rim Trail:
- Length: 1 mile
- Difficulty: Moderate
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Features: Panoramic views of the falls and surrounding landscape
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Pioneer Cemetery Trail:
- Length: Varies
- Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
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Features: Less crowded, dog-friendly (on-leash)
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Lake Britton Trail:
- Length: 0.5 miles (one-way)
- Difficulty: Easy
- Features: Connects the falls area to Lake Britton
| Trail Name | Length | Difficulty | Key Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rim Trail | 1 mile | Moderate | Panoramic views |
| Pioneer Cemetery Trail | Varies | Easy to Moderate | Dog-friendly |
| Lake Britton Trail | 0.5 miles | Easy | Lake access |
What Should I Know About Current Trail Conditions and Closures?
As of 2024, visitors should be aware of the following conditions and closures:
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Falls Loop Trail: Closed until Fall 2024 for repairs and improvements.
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Burney Creek Trail: Closed due to erosion and ongoing repairs.
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Rim Trail: Remains open and offers the best views of the falls.
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Pioneer Cemetery Trail: Open and allows dogs on-leash.
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Highway 89: Undergoing major rehabilitation near the park, which may cause traffic delays and intermittent closures.
It’s advisable to check the official McArthur-Burney Falls Memorial State Park website or contact the park office for the most up-to-date information before your visit.
How Does the Experience Differ Between Lassen National Park and Burney Falls?
While both destinations offer stunning natural beauty, they provide distinctly different experiences:
Lassen National Park:
– Volcanic landscape with hydrothermal features
– Extensive trail network for various skill levels
– Diverse ecosystems from alpine lakes to lava fields
– Opportunities for stargazing and dark sky viewing
– Camping and backcountry exploration options
Burney Falls:
– Focused on the 129-foot waterfall and immediate surroundings
– Limited but scenic hiking options
– Opportunities for fishing and water activities at Lake Britton
– More accessible for day trips and families
– Smaller area with concentrated natural beauty
What Are the Best Photography Opportunities Along the Route?
For photography enthusiasts, the journey from Lassen National Park to Burney Falls offers numerous captivating subjects:
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Lassen Peak: Capture the iconic volcano from various vantage points within the park.
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Manzanita Lake: Offers stunning reflections of Lassen Peak, especially at sunrise or sunset.
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Hat Creek Rim Overlook: Panoramic vistas of the valley and distant mountains.
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Subway Cave: Unique underground formations and textures.
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Pit River: Scenic river shots with surrounding forest landscapes.
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Burney Falls: The main attraction, offering various compositions:
- Wide-angle shots from the overlook
- Close-ups of water patterns and mist
- Long exposures for silky water effects
Tips for photographing Burney Falls:
– Use a tripod for stability, especially in low light conditions.
– Consider using neutral density filters for long exposures.
– Early morning or late afternoon light provides the best illumination.
– Protect your gear from water spray when shooting close to the falls.
How Can I Make the Most of My Trip from Lassen to Burney Falls?
To maximize your experience traveling from Lassen National Park to Burney Falls:
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Start Early: Begin your day at Lassen to explore key features like Bumpass Hell or Manzanita Lake.
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Scenic Drive: Take your time on the drive, stopping at viewpoints and attractions along Highway 89.
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Lunch Break: Pack a picnic or stop in Old Station or Burney for a meal.
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Afternoon at Burney Falls: Arrive at Burney Falls in the afternoon for optimal lighting and potentially fewer crowds.
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Hiking: Explore the open trails around Burney Falls, including the Rim Trail for the best views.
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Lake Britton: If time allows, visit Lake Britton for additional recreational activities.
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Sunset: Consider staying for sunset, which can create beautiful colors on the falls and surrounding landscape.
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Overnight Options:
- Camp at Burney Falls campground (reservations recommended)
- Stay in nearby towns like Burney or Fall River Mills
- Return to Lassen for more extensive camping options
By following this itinerary, you can experience the highlights of both Lassen National Park and Burney Falls in a single, memorable day trip.