Snowshoeing

You can snowshoe anywhere in the park. The gentlest places are near the northwest entrance, while more challenging terrain is in the Southwest corner of the park but is easier to access because the park road stays open here all winter. Cross-country skiing is also popular in these areas.

Beware of hidden cavities in the snow. Park officials warn that heated sulfur emissions, especially in the Sulphur Works Area, can melt out dangerous snow caverns, which may be camouflaged by thin layers of fresh snow that skiers and snowshoers can easily fall through.

Tours and Outfitters

Lassen Mineral Lodges. This lodge near the park rents snowshoes as well as cross-country skis and poles. 38348 Hwy. 36, Mineral, California, 96063. 530/595–4422; www.minerallodge.com.

Snowshoe Walks. On weekend afternoons from January through March, park rangers lead two-hour snowshoe walks that explore the park's geology and winter ecology. The hikes require moderate exertion at an elevation of 7,000 feet; children under age eight are not allowed. If you don't have snowshoes you can borrow a pair; $1 donation suggested. Walks are first-come, first-served; free tickets are issued beginning at 9 am (try to arrive by 11 am to be sure to secure a spot) the day of the hike at the Kohm Yah-mah-nee Visitor Center. 21820 Lassen National Park Hwy., Lassen Volcanic National Park, California, 96063. 530/595–4480; www.nps.gov/lavo. Free. Late Dec.–early Apr., weekends at 1:30.