Days
<1
Motors Allowed?
No
Difficulty
Easy / Class A
Distance
1.25 mi (2.01 km)
Please respect the outdoors by practicing Leave No Trace. Learn more about how to apply the principles of Leave No Trace on your next outdoor adventure here.

For anyone looking for calm paddle with an incredible view of one of the world's largest lava dome volcanoes, Manzanita Lake is the perfect place. Lying below Lassen Peak in Lassen Volcanic National Park, this lake exudes a relaxing atmosphere. While paddling, keep your eyes peeled for osprey diving into the cool waters or cast out a line for a chance to catch rainbow, brown, and brook trout. A designated boat launch area exists at the southeast end of the lake and is the only location allowed for launching a vessel. Here vessels can also be rented for anyone without their own kayak or canoe. 

Manzanita Lake was formed about 300 years ago when a large rock avalanche fell from nearby Chaos Crags and created a natural dam along Manzanita Creek. The lake has become a valuable habitat for fish along with osprey, bald eagles, great blue heron, Canada geese, and other large birds. A pair of binoculars are a great tool for viewing these magnificent birds and also to help maintain a respectful distance.

Logistics + Planning

Preferable season(s)

Summer
Fall

Congestion

Moderate

Parking Pass

National Park Pass

Pros

Great bird watching. Phenomenal views of Lassen Peak.

Cons

None.

Features

Campgrounds + Campsites
Fishing
Picnic tables
Bird watching
Wildlife

Site characteristics: Water

Lake

Portage required

No

Location

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