Getting to Lassen Volcanic National Park
Lassen Volcanic National Park sits in CA, United States, with Chester the nearest town of any size — about 19.4 mi (31.3 km) out, or roughly 45 min of driving.
Lassen Volcanic National Park does not gate the entrance itself. Specific roads, hikes, or tours still need a permit or timed ticket.
Drive times from Lassen Volcanic National Park
Lassen Volcanic National Park sits close enough to Redwood National Park, Crater Lake National Park, and Yosemite National Park that one drive from home can cover more than one park.
| Park | Apart | Estimated drive |
|---|---|---|
| Redwood National Park | 142 mi (228 km) | 3 hr 48 min |
| Crater Lake National Park | 171 mi (276 km) | 4 hr 30 min |
| Yosemite National Park | 210 mi (338 km) | 5 hr 25 min |
Long trails through this park
Pacific Crest Trail crosses Lassen Volcanic National Park. The published corridor is CA–WA.
- Pacific Crest Trail — official trail site.
Towns to base yourself in
| Town | Distance | Estimated drive |
|---|---|---|
| Chester | 19.4 mi (31.3 km) | 45 min |
| Shingletown | 20.5 mi (32.9 km) | 47 min |
| Burney | 27.7 mi (44.6 km) | 1 hr |
| Westwood | 29.3 mi (47.1 km) | 1 hr 2 min |
| Greenville | 38.2 mi (61.4 km) | 1 hr 18 min |
| Red Bluff | 44.7 mi (71.9 km) | 1 hr 29 min |
| Susanville | 44.9 mi (72.3 km) | 1 hr 29 min |
| Redding | 47.2 mi (76 km) | 1 hr 33 min |
How to read these numbers
Distances are straight-line between the town and the park centre. Drive estimates add a road factor and an average speed, which is close enough for planning but wrong wherever mountains, ferries, or seasonal closures are involved.
Inside a large park, getting from the entrance to the part you came to see can add another hour or more.
Region pages
Common questions
What is the closest town to Lassen Volcanic National Park?
Chester, about 19.4 mi (31.3 km) away — roughly 45 min of driving.
Where should I stay when visiting Lassen Volcanic National Park?
The practical bases are Chester, Shingletown, and Burney — all within a reasonable drive of the park.