Thirty-four trails are briefly described in this booklet. Rather than give a complete description of each trail, an attempt is made to indicate the highlights of each, giving enough information so that a hiker can decide which trails will interest him most.
The author would like to express his thanks and appreciation to a number of persons who have helped to make this publication possible: To Raymond L. Nelson, former Chief Park Naturalist, for guidance and sketch maps; Lester D. Bodine, former Chief Park Ranger; Harold L. Stanley, Robert Ball, and H. Trickey Lewis, seasonal rangers, for their aid and information; and to Dorothy Matteson, art department of Chico State College for the excellent illustrations.
INTRODUCTION
Lassen Volcanic National Park, established on August 9, 1916, and containing more than 160 square miles, is administered by the National Park Service, U. S. Department of the Interior.
The National Park System, of which this park is a unit, is dedicated to conserving the scenic, scientific, and historic heritage of the United States for the benefit and enjoyment of its people.
Created in 1849, the Department of the Interior—America’s Department of Natural Resources—is concerned with the management, conservation, and development of the Nation’s water, wildlife, mineral, forest, and park and recreation resources. It also has major responsibilities for Indian and Territorial affairs.
As the Nation’s principal conservation agency, the Department works to assure that nonrenewable resources are developed and used wisely, that park and recreational resources are conserved for the future, and that renewable resources make their full contribution to the progress, prosperity, and security of the United States—now and in the future.
USING THE TRAILS: A FEW TIPS FOR BEGINNERS
1. STAY ON THE TRAIL. This is usually a simple matter, but in a few places animal trails obscure the main trail. On some trails orange markers are nailed to trees to guide the hiker, and, on others, rock cairns mark the way.
2. AVOID SHORT CUTS. In the long run, they are not short cuts, as they use up more energy and are more tiring than the somewhat longer trail. They are often dangerous to the person using them and, also, dislodged rocks may injure hikers below. In addition, they always damage the trail by filling it with debris and by accelerating erosion.