One of the big plans we had while camping in Lassen Volcanic National Park was to hike to the summit of Lassen Peak (10,457 feet) the southernmost active volcano in the Cascade Range.
We've been wanting to hike this peak for a number of years, but it had been closed for almost five years while the park service was rebuilding the trail, this year was our chance.
We've been wanting to hike this peak for a number of years, but it had been closed for almost five years while the park service was rebuilding the trail, this year was our chance.
Lined up at the trailhead are Caleb, Lisa, our friend Chris England, and Hannah (Bob was taking the picture).
On our way to the summit of Lassen. You can see some of the vents ahead of us that were formed on May 30, 1915 when Lassen erupted after 27,000 years of dormancy.
Hannah heading up the trail. The section above this is as far as we made it the last time we were here in 2013 before trail repairs were complete.
Hannah and Lisa coming up the trail. The weather was very windy, especially near the top.
Our beautiful Hannah completely in her element.
She is wearing a special hat her Dad bought her back in 2000 when he was trekking and climbing in Nepal.
Caleb and Lisa making their way across one of the many snow banks with swirling clouds all around them. The wind and clouds gave an ethereal feel that made it feel like real adventure.
Wind whipping her hair as Hannah makes a bend in the trail.
On the false summit of Lassen with the true summit just beyond.
The true summit of Lassen Peak (10,457 feet).
Lisa lovin' to be out on the trail. Here she is sitting at the top in the shelter of some rocks for lunch. As it turned out, our summit coincided with the arrival of a park ranger who was there for a talk about the peak, the park, and all the history and geology of this amazing place.
Mom and son enjoying an adventurous day together.
This is a panorama from the peak. Click this image for a much larger version to catch a glimpse of the amazing view we had.
Our wonderful son Caleb did really great on this five mile, 2,000 foot gain hike to the summit of Lassen Peak.
Lisa enjoying the views on the way down.
And that's where we were.
Although a bit windy, this ended up being a wonderful hike and climb, and one we highly recommend.