A ranger-led snowshoe walk passes through the park's red fir forest
NPS Photo
MINERAL, CA –Ranger-led snowshoe walks at Lassen Volcanic National Park begin on January 2 and are offered every weekend day through April 3. Programs begin at1:30 pm and end by 3:30 pm. "The ranger-led snowshoe walks are an excellent way to learn or practice snowshoeing techniques and explore Lassen in its winter form. For those visitors that don't have snowshoes, here's an opportunity to see how much more fun winter can be," stated Park Superintendent, Steve Gibbons.
Each program is limited to 40 people and a ticket must be obtained in person the day of the program to participate in the walk. Each person will need to request their own ticket, as multiple tickets will not be issued. Tickets will be available inside the Kohm Yah-mah-nee Visitor Center beginning at9:00 a.m.the same day of the program. Visitors with tickets will meet out front of the visitor center at1:30 p.m. At the beginning of each snowshoe walk, a ranger will demonstrate how to put on and use snowshoes. Once the basic techniques are covered, the group heads out into the snowy landscape and the adventure begins.
The route and distance of the walks will vary depending on group ability, fitness, and snow conditions, but the walks will generally last for two hours. Walks are open to those visitors eight years of age and older;children in carriers and trekking poles are not allowed due to safety concerns.
Snowshoes are provided, though a $1.00 donation is suggested to cover maintenance and replacement costs of the snowshoes. Snowshoes are only provided for the ranger-led activity;the park does not rent snowshoes or other winter equipment. Equipment rentals are available in the nearby towns of Chester, Chico, Mineral, and Redding for those that wish to explore the park on their own.
Organized groups (schools, scouts, etc.) planning to attend, must schedule a ranger-led walk outside of the regularly scheduled public walks. Please contact the park at (530) 595-4480 or e-mail us for a reservation, program information, current conditions, or general information.
Visitors to the park 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.
