These small lakes are in a cirque below the rim of the old Mount Tehama caldera. From them excellent views of Mount Diller and Diamond Peak can be seen. You will find good subjects for pictures, and naturalists will find a variety of flowers (including the striking leopard lily), birds, trees, and probably deer.
The trail follows the ridge directly above the parking area for about a half mile, going through red fir and white pine forests. It then crosses an open hillside and finally goes over the moraine below the lakes. When the water is high the two lakes are joined into one. Above the lakes game trails go up the side of the Tehama rim, which is steep and covered with loose rock. Only experienced hikers should continue, and never alone.
[4]. SULPHUR WORKS
| Starting Point: | East end of the parking area |
| Distances: | 0.3 mile, round trip |
| Topography: | A few steep places |
| Time: | 25 minutes |
| Features: | Hydrothermal activity |
The name “Sulphur Works” was given to this area when two men, Boarman and Supan, tried unsuccessfully to develop the sulphur and clay properties in 1865. The hydrothermal activity consists of hot springs, mud pots, and fumaroles. As a result of the hydrothermal activity a number of different minerals are deposited in the area giving it pastel shades of yellow, orange, green, and red. Some of the minerals found are powdery opal, chalcedony, hematite, pyrite, kaolinite, alunite, and sulphur.
It is believed that this is part of the vent system of the ancient volcano, Mount Tehama, which collapsed thousands of years ago. Signs posted along the trail explain the various features. This is the only hydrothermal area close to the park road.
As crusts may be thin with boiling water underneath, visitors are warned to stay on the trail.
Bumpass Hell