Winter Arrives at Lassen Volcanic National Park 2016

MINERAL, CA – The recent storms and transition to snowy winter conditions have closed the Lassen Volcanic National Park Highway to vehicle traffic through the park for the season as of Monday, November 16. Visitors can still drive into the park as far as the Manzanita Lake area at the north entrance, and to the Kohm Yah-mah-nee Visitor Center, one mile inside the park’s southwest entrance. “We invite you to the park to snowshoe, ski, and sled or enjoy a cup of hot chocolate by the fireplace in the Kohm Yah-mah-nee Visitor Center throughout the season,” stated Park Superintendent Steve Gibbons. The park remains open for visitors throughout the winter and on January 1 Lassen Volcanic National Park and the National Park Service begin a year-long celebration of their 100th anniversaries.

Ranger-led snowshoe walks are offered on Saturdays and Sundays starting January 2. Meet at the Kohm Yah-mah-nee Visitor Center at1:30 p.m.for a 1 ½ to 2 hour walk through Lassen Volcanic’s spectacular winter scenery. Discover winter at Lassen through outdoor fun and film at the fourth annual Lassen Film Festival,January 16 through 18 from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Join us for this free event with the theme, Find Your Park, in celebration of our centennials. Entrance to the park is free on Monday, January 18 in commemoration of Martin Luther King, Jr. Day.

Visitors should be prepared for a range of weather conditions. Check the most recent weather forecast, dress in layers, carry food and water. Stow a shovel, extra blankets and tire chains in your vehicle in case unexpected winter road conditions delay your travel.

The Kohm Yah-mah-nee Visitor Center is open from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.Wednesday through Sunday.