Embark on a journey curated by seasoned explorers William and Hui Cha Stanek, who have spent decades immersing themselves in the diverse landscapes of North America. These itineraries are more than just travel plans - they are thoughtfully crafted adventures designed to help you connect with the natural world, discover hidden gems, and create lasting memories.

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Table of Contents

Introduction: A 2-Day Journey Through California's Hidden Gems

Personal Story: Hui Cha's First Encounter with California's Wild Beauty

The first time I visited Lassen Volcanic National Park, I was struck by how different it felt from the more famous parks in California. Growing up in South Korea I had always imagined California as a land of beaches and bustling cities. But here, in the shadow of Lassen Peak, I discovered a rugged, volcanic landscape that felt like another world – one shaped by fire and brimstone, where steaming fumaroles and boiling springs hinted at the immense forces at work beneath the Earth's surface.

A few days later, I found myself wandering among the towering giants of Redwood National and State Parks, where the forest floor was carpeted with ferns and the air was thick with the scent of moss and ancient trees. The contrast between these two parks – one born of fire, the other of water and time – was striking. Yet both offered a profound sense of peace and connection to the natural world. In this dual adventure, William and I will guide you through the best of Lassen Volcanic and Redwood National and State Parks, sharing our favorite hikes, photography spots, and insider tips to help you make the most of your journey through these hidden gems of Northern California.

About Lassen Volcanic National Park

Lassen Volcanic National Park, located in the northeastern corner of California, is a place where the Earth's fiery past is on full display. The park is home to all four types of volcanoes – shield, composite, cinder cone, and plug dome – as well as a variety of geothermal features, including boiling springs, fumaroles, and mud pots. Lassen Peak, the largest plug dome volcano in the world, last erupted in 1915, and its legacy can still be seen in the surrounding landscape. The park offers a mix of easy walks and challenging hikes, with opportunities to explore everything from bubbling mud pots to crystal-clear mountain lakes.

About Redwood National and State Parks

Redwood National and State Parks, located along the northern coast of California, are home to some of the tallest trees on Earth. These ancient redwoods, some of which are over 2,000 years old, rise like sentinels from the forest floor, their massive trunks creating a cathedral-like atmosphere that inspires awe and reverence. The parks protect a variety of ecosystems, from the lush coastal rainforests to the windswept beaches and rugged cliffs of the Pacific Ocean. Whether you're hiking among the giant trees, exploring the tide pools at low tide, or simply soaking in the beauty of the forest, Redwood National and State Parks offer a deeply immersive and spiritual experience.

Day 1: A Deep Dive into Lassen Volcanic National Park

Morning: Hiking the Lassen Peak Trail

6:30 AM - Start at the Lassen Peak Trailhead

Overview: Begin your adventure with a hike to the summit of Lassen Peak, the park's most iconic landmark. The trail to the summit is challenging, but the views from the top are breathtaking, offering a panoramic vista of the surrounding volcanic landscape, with glimpses of Mount Shasta to the north. The trail climbs steadily through rocky terrain, passing through fields of wildflowers in the summer and offering a close-up look at the park's unique geology.

Tips from William: "The Lassen Peak Trail is a must-do for any visitor to the park, but it's important to start early. The trail is steep and exposed, and the sun can be intense, even in the morning. Bring plenty of water, sunscreen, and a hat, and take your time on the ascent – the views are worth every step."

Insights from Hui Cha: "The trail to the summit is about 5 miles round trip, with 2,000 feet of elevation gain. It's a strenuous hike, but the sense of accomplishment you feel when you reach the top is incredible. The trail is well-maintained, but it can be rocky in places, so wear sturdy hiking boots. And don't forget to bring a jacket – the summit can be surprisingly cold, even in summer."

How to Access the Lassen Peak Trail

Location: The Lassen Peak Trailhead is located along the main park road, about 12 miles from the southwest entrance of the park.

Directions: From the southwest entrance, follow the main park road (Highway 89) for about 12 miles to the Lassen Peak parking area. The trailhead is well-marked, with ample parking available.

Trail Details: The Lassen Peak Trail is a 5-mile round trip hike with 2,000 feet of elevation gain. The trail is steep and exposed, with switchbacks that offer stunning views of the surrounding landscape. The summit provides a 360-degree view of the park, with clear days offering glimpses of Mount Shasta to the north.

Photography Techniques:

• Mountain Vistas: Use a wide-angle lens to capture the expansive views from the summit of Lassen Peak. Early morning light is ideal for landscape photography, with soft, golden tones that enhance the contrast between the rocky terrain and the blue sky.

• Wildflower Close-Ups: The trail to Lassen Peak passes through fields of wildflowers in the summer. Use a macro lens to capture the intricate details of the flowers, and experiment with different angles to highlight their colors and shapes.

• Geological Features: The summit of Lassen Peak offers a unique perspective on the park's volcanic history. Use a telephoto lens to capture close-ups of the volcanic rock formations and the remnants of past eruptions.

Alternative Activity:

If the hike to Lassen Peak feels too strenuous, consider exploring the Bumpass Hell Trail instead. This 3-mile round trip hike takes you to the park's largest hydrothermal area, where you can see boiling springs, fumaroles, and mud pots up close. The trail is much less steep, making it a great alternative for those looking for a less challenging hike with plenty of geothermal features to explore.

Mid-Morning: Exploring Bumpass Hell

10:30 AM - Hike to Bumpass Hell

Overview: After your morning hike, take a trip to Bumpass Hell, the largest hydrothermal area in Lassen Volcanic National Park. This otherworldly landscape is filled with boiling springs, bubbling mud pots, and steaming fumaroles, all set against a backdrop of colorful mineral deposits. The trail to Bumpass Hell is relatively easy, making it accessible to most visitors, and the geothermal features are among the most impressive in the park.

Tips from William: "Bumpass Hell is a fascinating place to explore, but it can also be dangerous. Stay on the boardwalks and marked trails – this is an active hydrothermal area, and the ground can be unstable in places. The colors and textures here are amazing, so bring a camera with a wide-angle lens to capture the full scene."

Insights from Hui Cha: "The hike to Bumpass Hell is about 3 miles round trip, with only a few hundred feet of elevation gain. It's a much easier hike than Lassen Peak, but it's just as rewarding in its own way. The geothermal features here are some of the most active in the park, and the sights, sounds, and smells create an unforgettable experience."

How to Access the Bumpass Hell Trail

Location: The Bumpass Hell Trailhead is located along the main park road, about 7 miles from the southwest entrance of the park.

Directions: From the Lassen Peak Trailhead, drive back down the main park road (Highway 89) for about 5 miles to the Bumpass Hell parking area. The trailhead is well-marked, with parking available.

Trail Details: The Bumpass Hell Trail is a 3-mile round trip hike with about 300 feet of elevation gain. The trail is well-maintained, with boardwalks that lead you safely through the hydrothermal area. The hike offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape, as well as up-close encounters with the park's geothermal features.

Photography Techniques:

• Geothermal Close-Ups: Use a telephoto or macro lens to capture the details of the bubbling mud pots and steaming fumaroles. The colors and textures in this area are incredible, especially when contrasted with the surrounding landscape.

• Wide-Angle Landscapes: The view from the boardwalks at Bumpass Hell is perfect for wide-angle landscape photography. Include the boardwalk in your composition to add a sense of scale and to guide the viewer's eye through the scene.

• Steam and Smoke: The steam rising from the geothermal features creates a dramatic effect, especially in the morning light. Use a polarizing filter to reduce glare and enhance the contrast between the steam and the surrounding landscape.

Alternative Activity:

If you prefer a more relaxed mid-morning activity, consider visiting the nearby Sulphur Works. This hydrothermal area is easily accessible from the main park road and offers a close-up look at fumaroles and boiling springs without the need for a long hike. It's a great option for those who want to experience the park's geothermal features without venturing too far from the road.

Afternoon: Kayaking or Canoeing on Manzanita Lake

1:00 PM - Paddle on Manzanita Lake

Overview: After exploring the geothermal wonders of Lassen Volcanic National Park, head to Manzanita Lake for a peaceful afternoon of kayaking or canoeing. The lake offers stunning views of Lassen Peak, and its calm waters are perfect for a leisurely paddle. This is also a great spot for wildlife watching, with plenty of birds, fish, and other creatures making their home in and around the lake.

Tips from William: "Manzanita Lake is a beautiful place to relax and enjoy the scenery. The reflections of Lassen Peak in the water are stunning, especially in the afternoon light. Bring a waterproof camera or use a dry bag to protect your gear, and take your time exploring the shoreline."

Insights from Hui Cha: "Kayaking or canoeing on Manzanita Lake is a perfect way to unwind after a morning of hiking. The lake is calm and easy to paddle, making it accessible to all skill levels. If you're lucky, you might even spot a bald eagle or an osprey fishing in the lake."

How to Access Manzanita Lake

Location: Manzanita Lake is located near the northwest entrance of Lassen Volcanic National Park, just off Highway 44.

Directions: From Bumpass Hell, return to the main park road and head north toward the northwest entrance. Follow signs for Manzanita Lake, where you'll find parking and access to the lake.

Paddling Details: Manzanita Lake is a popular spot for kayaking and canoeing, with rentals available at the Manzanita Lake Camper Store. The lake is relatively small, making it easy to explore in a few hours. The views of Lassen Peak from the water are breathtaking, and the lake's clear waters are perfect for photography.

Photography Techniques:

• Reflection Shots: Use a wide-angle lens to capture the reflections of Lassen Peak in the calm waters of Manzanita Lake. Early morning and late afternoon are the best times for reflection photography.

• Wildlife Photography: Keep your telephoto lens ready to capture close-ups of birds, fish, and other wildlife that frequent the lake. The calm water makes it easy to get stable shots from your kayak or canoe.

• Panoramic Landscapes: The views from the lake are perfect for panoramic photography. Use a tripod and a panoramic head to capture the full sweep of the landscape, including the lake, trees, and mountains.

Alternative Activity:

If you prefer to stay on land, consider taking a leisurely stroll around the Manzanita Lake Loop Trail. This 1.5-mile loop offers beautiful views of the lake and Lassen Peak, with plenty of opportunities for wildlife watching and photography. It's an easy, flat walk that's perfect for an afternoon outing.

Evening: Sunset at Lake Helen

6:00 PM - Drive to Lake Helen

Overview: End your day with a sunset at Lake Helen, one of the most picturesque spots in Lassen Volcanic National Park. The lake, which sits at the base of Lassen Peak, is known for its deep blue color and crystal-clear waters. As the sun sets, the light reflects off the lake and the surrounding mountains, creating a serene and beautiful scene.

Tips from William: "Lake Helen is a perfect spot to capture the sunset. The colors in the sky and the reflections in the water create a stunning composition, especially when Lassen Peak is visible in the background. Bring a tripod for long exposures, and experiment with different angles to capture the best light."

Insights from Hui Cha: "The area around Lake Helen is peaceful and quiet, making it a great place to unwind and reflect on your day. The lake can be quite chilly, even in the summer, so bring a warm jacket and a thermos of hot tea or coffee to enjoy as you watch the sun go down."

How to Access Lake Helen

Location: Lake Helen is located along the main park road, about 10 miles from the southwest entrance of Lassen Volcanic National Park.

Directions: From Manzanita Lake, return to the main park road and head south toward the southwest entrance. Follow signs for Lake Helen, where you'll find parking and access to the lake.

Exploration Details: Lake Helen is easily accessible from the road, with several pull-offs where you can park and walk down to the shore. The lake is surrounded by rugged mountains, with Lassen Peak towering above. The area is relatively uncrowded, making it a perfect spot for a peaceful evening.

Photography Techniques:

• Sunset Reflections: Use a wide-angle lens to capture the reflections of the mountains and sky in the calm waters of Lake Helen. A graduated neutral density filter can help balance the exposure between the bright sky and the darker water.

• Golden Hour Lighting: The warm, golden light of sunset is perfect for landscape photography. Use this time to capture the changing light and shadows on the mountains and lake.

• Close-Ups of Nature: The area around Lake Helen is full of interesting plants and rocks. Use a macro lens to capture the details of the flora and the textures of the rocks along the shore.

Alternative Activity:

If you prefer a more elevated view, consider driving up to the nearby Lassen Peak parking area and watching the sunset from there. The higher vantage point offers sweeping views of the surrounding landscape, with Lassen Peak as a dramatic backdrop. It's a great spot for panoramic photography and reflection.

Day 2: The Ancient Giants of Redwood National and State Parks

Morning: Hiking the Lady Bird Johnson Grove

7:00 AM - Start at the Lady Bird Johnson Grove Trailhead

Overview: Begin your day in Redwood National and State Parks with a hike through the Lady Bird Johnson Grove, one of the most accessible and beautiful groves of ancient redwoods in the park. The grove is named in honor of former First Lady Lady Bird Johnson, who dedicated the area in 1968. The trail takes you through a lush forest of towering redwoods, with plenty of interpretive signs that provide insights into the history and ecology of the park.

Tips from William: "The Lady Bird Johnson Grove is a magical place to start your day. The early morning light filtering through the trees creates a soft, ethereal glow that is perfect for photography. Use a wide-angle lens to capture the towering redwoods, and bring a tripod for long exposures in the low light."

Insights from Hui Cha: "The trail through the Lady Bird Johnson Grove is about 1.5 miles round trip and relatively flat, making it accessible to all visitors. The grove is often shrouded in mist in the morning, which adds to the mystical atmosphere. Take your time and soak in the beauty of these ancient trees."

How to Access the Lady Bird Johnson Grove

Location: The Lady Bird Johnson Grove is located off Bald Hills Road, about 2 miles from the Redwood Creek Overlook.

Directions: From Highway 101, take the Bald Hills Road exit and follow the road for about 2 miles to the Lady Bird Johnson Grove parking area. The trailhead is well-marked, with parking available.

Trail Details: The Lady Bird Johnson Grove Trail is a 1.5-mile loop that takes you through a beautiful grove of old-growth redwoods. The trail is well-maintained and suitable for all ages and fitness levels. Interpretive signs along the trail provide information about the history and ecology of the grove.

Photography Techniques:

• Vertical Compositions: The towering redwoods are best captured with vertical compositions. Use a wide-angle lens to emphasize the height of the trees, and include the trail or a person in the frame to provide a sense of scale.

• Mist and Fog: The grove is often covered in mist in the early morning, which creates a soft, diffused light. Use a tripod and a slow shutter speed to capture the misty atmosphere, and experiment with different angles to highlight the contrast between the dark trunks and the light mist.

• Close-Ups of Forest Details: The forest floor is covered in ferns, mosses, and other plants that thrive in the cool, damp environment. Use a macro lens to capture the intricate details of the foliage, and experiment with different depths of field to create interesting compositions.

Alternative Activity:

If you're looking for a shorter, less crowded hike, consider exploring the nearby Trillium Falls Trail. This 2.5-mile loop takes you through a redwood grove and past a picturesque waterfall, with fewer visitors than the more popular trails in the park. It's a great option for a quiet morning hike with plenty of opportunities for photography.

Mid-Morning: Exploring Fern Canyon

10:00 AM - Drive to Fern Canyon

Overview: After your hike, head to Fern Canyon, one of the most unique and beautiful spots in Redwood National and State Parks. This narrow, moss-covered canyon was featured in the movie Jurassic Park 2: The Lost World, and it's easy to see why – it feels like a prehistoric landscape, with ferns draping the canyon walls and a small stream running through the center. The hike through Fern Canyon is short and easy, but the scenery is unforgettable.

Tips from William: "Fern Canyon is a photographer's dream. The lush green ferns and the soft light filtering through the canyon make for stunning images. Use a wide-angle lens to capture the full scene, and bring a tripod for long exposures of the stream. Waterproof shoes are a good idea – the trail is often wet and muddy."

Insights from Hui Cha: "The hike through Fern Canyon is only about a mile round trip, but it's one of the most memorable experiences in the park. The canyon walls rise 50-80 feet above you, and the ferns and mosses create a lush, green paradise. Take your time and explore every nook and cranny – there's something new to discover around every corner."

How to Access Fern Canyon

Location: Fern Canyon is located in the Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park section of Redwood National and State Parks, near Gold Bluffs Beach.

Directions: From the Lady Bird Johnson Grove, return to Highway 101 and head north to the Davison Road exit. Follow Davison Road (a narrow, unpaved road) for about 8 miles to the parking area for Fern Canyon. The road can be rough, so a high-clearance vehicle is recommended.

Trail Details: The hike through Fern Canyon is about 1 mile round trip, with minimal elevation gain. The trail follows a small stream through the canyon, with footbridges in place during the summer months. The trail can be wet and muddy, so waterproof shoes are recommended.

Photography Techniques:

• Canyon Compositions: Use a wide-angle lens to capture the narrow, vertical walls of the canyon and the lush ferns that cover them. The soft, diffused light in the canyon is perfect for photography, so experiment with different angles to capture the full beauty of the scene.

• Stream Reflections: The small stream that runs through Fern Canyon offers opportunities for reflection photography. Use a tripod and a slow shutter speed to capture the movement of the water and the reflections of the ferns and trees in the stream.

• Close-Ups of Ferns: The ferns and mosses in Fern Canyon are incredibly detailed and intricate. Use a macro lens to capture the textures and patterns of the foliage, and experiment with different depths of field to create interesting compositions.

Alternative Activity:

If Fern Canyon is too crowded or if you prefer a longer hike, consider exploring the nearby James Irvine Trail. This 10-mile round trip hike takes you through old-growth redwood forest and ends at Fern Canyon, offering a more immersive experience of the park's diverse ecosystems.

Afternoon: Driving the Newton B. Drury Scenic Parkway

1:00 PM - Drive the Newton B. Drury Scenic Parkway

Overview: After exploring Fern Canyon, take a leisurely drive along the Newton B. Drury Scenic Parkway, one of the most beautiful roads in Redwood National and State Parks. This 10-mile road winds through old-growth redwood forest, offering stunning views of the towering trees and plenty of opportunities to stop and explore. The parkway is often less crowded than other areas of the park, making it a perfect place to enjoy the peace and tranquility of the forest.

Tips from William: "The Newton B. Drury Scenic Parkway is a perfect way to experience the beauty of the redwoods from the comfort of your car. There are plenty of pull-offs where you can stop and take photos, and the light filtering through the trees creates beautiful patterns of light and shadow. Use a wide-angle lens to capture the grandeur of the trees, and don't be afraid to get out and explore some of the short trails along the way."

Insights from Hui Cha: "This drive is a peaceful and relaxing way to spend the afternoon. The road is smooth and easy to navigate, with plenty of places to stop and stretch your legs. Be sure to keep an eye out for wildlife – deer and elk are often seen grazing in the meadows along the parkway."

How to Access the Newton B. Drury Scenic Parkway

Location: The Newton B. Drury Scenic Parkway runs parallel to Highway 101 through Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park.

Directions: From Fern Canyon, return to Davison Road and head south to Highway 101. Take Highway 101 south to the Newton B. Drury Scenic Parkway exit, and follow the parkway through the park.

Drive Details: The Newton B. Drury Scenic Parkway is a 10-mile road that winds through old-growth redwood forest. The road is paved and well-maintained, with numerous pull-offs and trailheads along the way. The speed limit is low, allowing you to take your time and enjoy the scenery.

Photography Techniques:

• Forest Canopy Shots: Use a wide-angle lens to capture the towering redwoods and the dappled light filtering through the canopy. Include the road in your composition to add depth and lead the viewer's eye through the scene.

• Wildlife Photography: Keep your telephoto lens ready to capture close-ups of deer, elk, and other wildlife that may be seen along the parkway. Early afternoon is a great time to spot animals grazing in the meadows.

• Detail Shots: The forest along the parkway is full of interesting details, from the textures of the tree bark to the delicate ferns and wildflowers that grow on the forest floor. Use a macro lens to capture these close-up details and experiment with different compositions.

Alternative Activity:

If you prefer to get out and hike, consider exploring the nearby Prairie Creek Trail. This 4-mile round trip hike takes you through a stunning grove of old-growth redwoods and along a beautiful creek, with plenty of opportunities for photography and wildlife watching.

Evening: Sunset at Gold Bluffs Beach

6:30 PM - Sunset at Gold Bluffs Beach

Overview: End your day with a sunset at Gold Bluffs Beach, one of the most beautiful and serene spots in Redwood National and State Parks. The beach is located just west of Fern Canyon and offers stunning views of the Pacific Ocean, with the rugged cliffs of the bluffs rising behind you. The soft light of the setting sun creates a peaceful and magical atmosphere, making it a perfect place to reflect on your day.

Tips from William: "Gold Bluffs Beach is a perfect spot to capture the beauty of the Pacific Coast at sunset. The wide, sandy beach and the dramatic cliffs make for stunning compositions, especially with the warm, golden light of the setting sun. Use a tripod for long exposures, and experiment with different angles to capture the best light and shadows."

Insights from Hui Cha: "The beach is often quiet and uncrowded in the evening, making it a perfect place to relax and enjoy the sunset. Bring a blanket and a warm drink, and take your time soaking in the beauty of the ocean. If you're lucky, you might even spot a whale or dolphin in the distance."

How to Access Gold Bluffs Beach

Location: Gold Bluffs Beach is located in Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park, near the western end of Davison Road.

Directions: From the Newton B. Drury Scenic Parkway, return to Highway 101 and head north to the Davison Road exit. Follow Davison Road to the Gold Bluffs Beach parking area, where you'll find access to the beach.

Exploration Details: Gold Bluffs Beach is easily accessible from the parking area, with a short walk down to the sand. The beach is wide and sandy, with plenty of space to spread out and enjoy the sunset. The area is often quiet and uncrowded, making it a perfect spot for a peaceful evening.

Photography Techniques:

• Sunset Seascapes: Use a wide-angle lens to capture the expansive views of the beach and ocean at sunset. A graduated neutral density filter can help balance the exposure between the bright sky and the darker sand and water.

• Long Exposures: The movement of the waves creates beautiful patterns in the sand and water. Use a tripod and a slow shutter speed to capture long-exposure shots that emphasize the motion of the ocean.

• Silhouettes and Reflections: The cliffs and driftwood on the beach make for dramatic silhouettes against the colorful sky. Experiment with different angles to capture the reflections of the sunset in the wet sand and shallow water.

Alternative Activity:

If you prefer a more elevated view, consider driving up to the nearby Klamath River Overlook. The overlook offers sweeping views of the Pacific Ocean and the mouth of the Klamath River, with excellent opportunities for sunset photography. It's a great spot for panoramic shots and wildlife watching.

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Conclusion: A Journey Through California's Wild Heart

Personal Reflection: Hui Cha's Closing Thoughts on Lassen and Redwood

As our dual adventure through Lassen Volcanic and Redwood National and State Parks came to an end, I couldn't help but reflect on the incredible diversity and beauty we had experienced. These two parks, though different in many ways, both offer a unique connection to the natural world – a connection that is both humbling and inspiring.

Lassen Volcanic National Park, with its rugged volcanic landscape and bubbling geothermal features, reminds us of the powerful forces at work beneath the Earth's surface. Redwood National and State Parks, with their towering ancient trees and lush coastal forests, offer a sense of peace and reverence for the natural world. Together, these parks provide a deep and immersive experience of California's wild heart.

Whether you're drawn to the dramatic landscapes of Lassen or the serene beauty of the redwoods, these parks offer something for every adventurer. Take the time to explore, to listen, and to immerse yourself in the beauty of these incredible landscapes. Every sunrise, every hike, every quiet moment by a mountain lake or on a secluded beach is a part of the adventure, a part of the story that you'll carry with you long after you've left these parks behind.

Next Steps: Continuing Your Exploration

With Lassen Volcanic and Redwood National and State Parks behind you, the possibilities for further exploration are endless. Whether you choose to continue your journey along the Pacific Coast, explore the mountains of the Sierra Nevada, or venture inland to discover more of California's natural beauty, remember to take the time to connect with each place you visit. Every park, every landscape has its own story to tell, and the more you listen, the richer your journey will be.

Happy adventuring!