Lassen Volcanic NP to Lava Tubes NM, Mt. Shasta stopover ?

Question

This week, we will be driving from Lassen Volcanic National Park to Crater Lake as part of a 9-day road trip from Sacramento to San Francisco. We are interested in scenic drives and short hikes. We plan to visit McBurney Falls and Lava Beds National Monument. Should we drive directly to Lava Beds, or would it be better to take a longer route through Mount Shasta?s a longer drive by way of Mt. Shasta?

Answer

Driving from Lassen Volcanic National Park to Lava Beds National Monument gives you a couple of options, depending on how much time you want to spend on scenic detours versus getting to your next destination efficiently. Both routes offer different experiences, so it depends on your priorities for short hikes, scenery, and sightseeing.

If you choose the most direct route:

Direct Route (~3–3.5 hours): This takes you generally northwest via Route 44 and US-97. You’ll reach Lava Beds National Monument more quickly, leaving you ample time to explore the lava tube caves, hike the short trails, and visit Petroglyph Point.
This option maximizes your time at Lava Beds and allows for a more relaxed afternoon and evening there without rushing.
You can still stop briefly at McArthur-Burney Falls State Park along the way if you want a short hike and scenic waterfall views.

If you choose the longer, scenic detour through Mount Shasta:

Mount Shasta Route (~5–6 hours including detours): Heading north from Lassen via Redding and then west through Mount Shasta offers spectacular mountain scenery, especially if the weather is clear. You could include short hikes or viewpoints around Mount Shasta or Lake Siskiyou.
This route adds driving time but gives you the opportunity to see Mount Shasta up close, take photos, or do a short nature hike. Even a 1–2 mile trail at Lake Siskiyou or Panther Meadows can be rewarding.
After the Mount Shasta area, you can continue west and then south to Lava Beds National Monument.

Considerations for your choice:

If your goal is to maximize time for hiking and exploring Lava Beds and Crater Lake, the direct route is more practical and less tiring.
If you value scenic driving and the chance to experience Mount Shasta up close, the detour is worthwhile, but it will limit the time available for hiking at Lava Beds or may require an overnight stop near Mount Shasta or Lava Beds.
Weather and daylight hours in late October can influence your decision; shorter days mean you may prefer the direct route to ensure safe driving and adequate daylight for short hikes.

In summary, for a balance of sightseeing and hiking without feeling rushed, the direct route with a stop at McArthur-Burney Falls is efficient and scenic. The Mount Shasta detour is best if you prioritize mountain vistas and don’t mind spending extra time in the car.

Lassen Volcanic NP to Lava Tubes NM, Mt. Shasta stopover ?

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