Crumbaugh Lake © Russell Virgilio/NPS
Fishing is not a particularly popular activity, but many of the park’s waters are known for their rainbow and brown trout. Manzanita Lake is the most frequented fishing hole. You must practice catch and release and use single-hook, barbless, artificial lures. A California fishing license is required for all anglers 16 and older.
Boating: Boat launches are available for non-motorized watercraft at Manzanita, Butte, and Juniper Lakes. Paddlers must also use these designated launch areas. Kayak rental is available at Manzanita Lake Camper Store. They offer single and double kayaks on a first-come, first-served basis. Rentals are available from 10am – 3pm. Kayak rates are $10 for 1-hour, and $16 for 2-hours.
Bird Watching is another popular past-time at Lassen Volcanic National Park. Manzanita Lake Loop and Cluster Lakes Loop Trails are popular among birders. No matter where you travel you’re likely to spot at least a few of the 83 species of birds that nest within the park. Favorites include osprey, bald eagle, bufflehead, peregrine falcon, California spotted owl, and red-breasted sapsucker. Lassen Volcanic National Park is one of the few areas where bufflehead breed in northern California.
In winter, Main Park Road may be closed but the fun doesn’t stop where the road is not plowed. Southwest Parking Area is a great place to begin a snowshoe trek, cross-country ski adventure, or a family sledding excursion. Several sledding hills and miles of ski trails are available nearby Kohm Yah-mah-nee Visitor Center. Over at the Northwest Entrance, cross-country skiers and snowshoers can embark upon a 7.5 mile trail along Manzanita Creek (begins at Loomis Ranger Station) or the 7-mile Nobles Emigrant Trail (begins across from Loomis Parking Area).