Bumpass Hell trail opens

Question

Hello, I have checked the trail conditions fairly often since the last 2 weeks. I am so happy to see the trail open. We will be there tomorrow. Do you know if this trail has a big parking slot at the trailhead or not? We probably won’t get there till noon. TIA

Answer

Great to hear you’re planning to hike Bumpass Hell! It’s one of Lassen Volcanic National Park’s most iconic geothermal areas, with steaming fumaroles, boiling springs, and mudpots. The trail is about 3 miles round trip and is generally considered moderate, so it’s a manageable hike for most visitors.

Regarding parking at the trailhead:

The Bumpass Hell trailhead has a dedicated parking area, but it is not very large. It typically accommodates around 30–40 vehicles, including cars and small SUVs. Larger vehicles may be more difficult to maneuver.
Arriving around noon can be tricky, especially during summer weekends, as the lot tends to fill up by late morning. It’s often advised to arrive early in the morning to secure a spot, but later arrivals may still find spaces if some hikers leave.
If the main lot is full, there is limited roadside parking along the approach road, but it is minimal and may require a short walk to the trailhead.

Additional tips for your visit:

Wear sturdy shoes as the trail has some uneven terrain.
Bring water and sun protection, as the area is exposed.
Dogs are not allowed on the trail, so plan accordingly.
Check the weather before heading out; conditions can change rapidly in Lassen.

In summary, the trailhead parking is modest in size, so arriving closer to noon may be slightly risky in terms of finding a space. If you encounter a full lot, be prepared to wait for a spot or consider alternative parking along the road.