23 |
MILL |
DISTANCE: 3.2 miles round-trip
HIKING TIME: 1.5 hours
SEASON: June–October
DIFFICULTY: easy
Mill Creek Falls is the highest waterfall in Lassen Park and a pleasure to walk to. Its trailhead is found on the south side of Lassen Park, near Southwest Campground. The trail begins on the camp’s north side and drops downhill to a log bridge over West Sulphur Creek. On the far side, acres of mule’s ears thrive on the sun-drenched slopes. In summer, there’s a vibrant show of big yellow flowers and emerald green leaves.
The trail laterals eastward, crossing several feeder streams and climbing and descending gently. You’ll travel under a canopy of red firs, white firs, and pines, and, if the timing is right, you’ll pass small open meadows rife with corn lilies and wildflowers. Suddenly you’ll hear the sound of falling water, and in moments you’ll be standing at a clearing, peering across the canyon at plunging Mill Creek Falls, which is formed where two streams come together. Follow the trail another 0.25 mile to the waterfall’s brink, then retrace your steps when you’re ready.
From Red Bluff, take Hwy. 36 east for 45 miles. Turn north on Hwy. 89 and drive 4.5 miles to Lassen Park’s Southwest entrance station. Continue on the park road for 100 yards to the parking area on the right side, near the restroom by Southwest Campground, just south of Lassen Chalet. Begin walking on the paved trail by the restroom, heading left through the camp to the signed trailhead.
