Hike and Bike the Highway

Bicyclists take advantage of spring clearing operations to explore the park highway without vehicles.

NPS photo

During spring road clearing, Lassen Volcanic Park Highway (Hwy 89) opens to pedestrian travel before it opens to vehicles. During this time, visitors can travel the road by walking, running, or biking. Leashed pets are also welcome on the park road when it is clear of snow.

 

New for 2025

Road clearing status/progress updates will appear in Alerts (listed above and on the Current Conditions page). A map denoting plowed/unplowed sections of road is also available on the Current Conditions page.

 

When & Where

Spring road clearing typically begins in March or April and occurs in sections. These sections will open to pedestrian (Hike & Bike) traffic once the road crew completely clears it of snow. Section opening dates vary by year and depend on weather and plowing abilities. We cannot predict when sections of the park will open; sections may close again with severe inclement weather. Check historic opening dates for the Highway to vehicle traffic.

Once the road is completely clear of snow, it will open to vehicle traffic. Pedestrian use is still allowed after the road opens, but extreme caution is advised. There are numerous sharp turns, no bike lane, and little to no shoulder.

Section Opening Order:

1. Loomis Museum to Devastated Area (10 miles)
2. Southwest entrance to Sulphur Works (1 mile)
3. Sulphur Works to Bumpass Hell parking area or Lassen Peak parking area (7-8 miles)
4. Lassen Peak to Devastated Area (12 miles)

Common Waypoints (South to North)

Section	Waypoint	Elevation (feet)	Distance from Last Waypoint (miles)
2	Kohm Yah-mah-nee Visitor Center	6740	0
2	Sulphur Works	7000	1
3	Bumpass Hell parking area	8200	5.2
3	Lassen Peak parking area / road summit	8511	1
4	Kings Creek Picnic Area	7445	3.3
4	Summit Lake	6700	6.1
4 / 1	Devastated Area	6460	2.5
1	Hot Rock	6415	2.8
1	Loomis Museum / Manzanita Lake parking area	5905	3

 

 

Visitors enjoying the Lassen Volcanic Park Highway should consider:

Safety

• Share the road and maintain a safe distance between walkers and cyclists. Bicycle helmets are strongly encouraged. The park highway is narrow and winding; sharp turns may prevent unobstructed views of what lies ahead.

• Stay alert for rockfall, travel in the lane farthest from a downward slope, and maintain an appropriate speed.

• Cell phone service is spotty at best. Do not rely on cell phone coverage for emergencies.

• Come prepared for cool weather especially in the early morning and late evening. Lassen is a high elevation park ranging from 5,650 to 10,457 feet and weather can change quickly. Check the weather forecast before your visit and come prepared for the conditions.

• Wear layers and bring sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat. Even on overcast days, sun exposure is greater at higher elevations.

Be Prepared

• Dogs must be leashed (5 feet or less) and are only permitted on the road. Dogs are not permitted on any park trails.ness

• Is your bike ready to ride? Check that your tires have sufficient air, brakes are working, chain runs smoothly, and carry tools and supplies that are appropriate for your ride.

• Restrooms are available at the Kohm Yah-mah-nee Visitor Center, Sulphur Works parking area, Devastated Area, and Loomis Plaza.

• Parking is available at the Kohm Yah-mah-nee Visitor Center and Loomis Museum.

• Water is available at the Kohm Yah-mah-nee Visitor Center.

• Visitor centers may have limited operating hours. Check visitor center hours before you go.