Hydrothermal pools and sulfur vents generated by underground volcanic activity is a unique geological feature of Lassen Volcanic National Park. Dormant Lassen Peak, the southernmost volcano in the Cascade mountain range, hasn’t erupted in over 100 years yet heat still exists beneath the surface. Acting as the 2nd largest hydrothermal area in the US, experience hiking the piping hot atmosphere of Bumpass Hell in Lassen National Park.
About the Bumpass Hell Trail
Located in the southwest area of Lassen, Bumpass Hell is the most popular short hike in the park. The 16 acres of bubbling mud pots and sulfur vents make this trip to hell and back well worth the minimal effort. Beginning at over 8,000 feet in elevation, a roundtrip hike on the trail is around 2.8 miles. With an easy 446+ foot elevation gain, I completed the hike in just over an hour.
Tips for Hiking Bumpass Hell in Lassen National Park
Hiking the Bumpass Hell Trail is one of the coolest experiences you could have on a visit to Lassen National Park. Since the length and elevation gain is moderate, it’s a good hike for people of all ages.
While you should always stay on trail during hikes, it’s especially important at Bumpass Hell due to the boiling temperatures beneath the unstable surface. Consider the experience of the man who discovered this area, Kendal Bumpass. He managed to fall in the volcanic hotsprings two separate times with the second instance causing the amputation of his leg.
Be sure to check the NPS website here for current conditions and alerts for the park
Hiking Bumpass Hell in Lassen National Park
Distance: 2.8 Miles
Type: Out & Back
Elevation Gain: +446 Feet
Best Time to Hike: June – October
Getting to the Bumpass Hell Trailhead
The parking area to access the Bumpass Hell trail is located along Lassen Volcanic National Park Highway about 6 miles from the southwest entrance (directions to trailhead here). With limited spaces, the parking area tends to fill up quickly so get here early to grab a spot.
Beginning the Hike to Bumpass Hell
Find the trailhead for Bumpass Hell on the east side of the parking lot. With a leveled yet exposed path, the trail winds around the sides of a valley over 1000 feet deep. Looking across the way, we can see the peaks of Brokeoff and Diller Mountains.
Reaching the Bumpass Hell Overlook
Just over a mile into the hike we reach a trail junction with a glimpse of Bumpass Hell through the trees. Continuing straight on the trail, we begin our 300-foot descension down to the hydrothermal basin.
The Bumpass Hell Basin
Around 1.5 miles, we reach the boardwalk of Bumpass Hell. Embodied by a strong smell of sulfur, the stark white surface contrasts with the boiling pools as it spews steam from the underground vents. Walking down into the cauldron of bubbling mud pots feels as if we’re on another planet.
Bumpass Hell is the perfect indication for active volcanic activity here in Lassen. As rain and snow feeds the underlying hydrothermal system, molten rock then heats it and rises to the surface, creating the features of Bumpass Hell.
The short length of the boardwalk allows us to walk right on top of Bumpass Hell. To the north we can see Big Boiler and the Turquoise Pool. At the end of the boardwalk is the Pyrite Pool which feeds the sulfuric stream that flows parallel with the path.
The trail continues on deeper into Lassen’s wilderness at the end of the boardwalk. From here, we’ll retreat back to end our hike at the parking area, about 1.5 miles away. Consider taking the substitute trail for the ascension. Before climbing up through the trees, turn around to get one last panoramic look at the entirety of Bumpass Hell.
While hiking on trails, please abide by the “Leave No Trace” principles.
Read More: Leave No Trace: The 7 Rules of the Backcountry
Learn more about Leave No Trace on their website here.
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