Peaking at Lassen Volcanic National Park

Amazing experiences can happen when you least expect them. I will never forget mine from this hike.

I have always wanted to hike to the peak of Mount Lassen. My family and friends have hiked in Lassen Volcanic National Park for years, but I never reached the mountain's summit, until this summer.

There is not a lot of cover on the trail which makes sunscreen a must. The trail is all uphill until you get to the top, and it took me two hours to get there. The hike down is much faster.

The sight I will never forget was watching thousands of butterflies migrate over the mountain.

Photo Taken by Marcella Anderson

Photo Taken by Ricky Fryer

As we got closer to the peak, we started to notice the butterflies. They were delicate with the backdrop of mountains and snow. They seemed so uniquely out of place.

Once we got to the very top, the sight was magnificent. We had a 360-degree view of the park while standing in the middle of a butterfly kaleidoscope. They bumped into us and careened right over the mountain.

This migration only happens at certain times of the year when hundreds of thousands of butterflies go over the peak. The type of butterfly is called the California Tortoise Shell. 

This park also has so many other trail options with fun features. Mount Lassen is an active volcano, so visitors can watch mud pits bubble and lakes boil. 

There is a large area of sulfur works if you can stand the stench.