Volcanic Legacy Road Trip

The Volcanic Legacy Road Trip is a great way to explore the United States' natural beauty. Starting in Red Bluff, the route takes you through the stunning Lassen Volcanic National Park, with its amazing volcanic features, and the town of Weed. You will cover a distance of approximately 744km over the course of 3 days, and the best time to do the drive is during the summer months, when you can make the most of the beautiful landscapes and good road conditions. This road trip is suitable for all drivers and can be managed on a moderate budget, yet provides a very high level of experience and memories. So if you're looking for an unforgettable road trip, the Volcanic Legacy Road Trip is the perfect choice.

Red Bluff, located in Northern California, is an ideal starting point for the “Volcanic Legacy Road Trip”. The city is surrounded by natural wonders, including the Sacramento River, the spectacular Lassen Volcanic National Park and the fascinating Lake Shasta Caverns. For those arriving by air, the nearest international airport is Redding Municipal Airport (RDD). Upon arrival, car rental services are available at the airport for those looking to explore the area by car. Red Bluff offers plenty of attractions that are well worth exploring. For example, the River Park, located on the Sacramento River, is a popular spot for boating, fishing and swimming. The nearby Lassen Volcanic National Park is home to an array of volcanoes, hot springs and boiling mud pots, and is a great place for outdoor enthusiasts. Nature lovers should also visit the Lake Shasta Caverns, a network of limestone caves that offer a unique view of the underground world. In addition to its natural wonders, Red Bluff offers a range of cultural attractions. The Tehama County Historical Museum is a great place to learn about the area’s history, while the unique Red Bluff Art Gallery showcases local artwork. There are also plenty of shops and restaurants to check out, as well as plenty of opportunities for outdoor recreation, including hiking, biking and horseback riding. Whether you’re looking to explore the natural wonders of the area or want to learn more about its history and culture, Red Bluff is the perfect starting point for the “Volcanic Legacy Road Trip”.

Greetings road-trippers! This stage of your journey will take you from Red Bluff to Lassen Volcanic National Park, a distance of 70 miles that can be covered in less than two hours. Along the way, you will be able to appreciate the beauty of the Northern California landscape. The first stop is the Sacramento River, where you can take a break and enjoy the tranquil atmosphere. From there, you can continue to the Battle Creek Falls, a wonderful waterfall that will leave you in awe. After that, you can visit the McArthur-Burney Falls Memorial State Park, where you can take a dip in the crystal-clear waters of the lake and take pictures of the beautiful scenery. The next stop is the Lassen Peak Trailhead, where you can admire the stunning views of the Lassen Volcanic National Park. The trail is easy to follow and suitable for all skill levels. After that, you can take a break at the Manzanita Lake, where you can take a relaxing stroll and enjoy the views of the lake and the surrounding mountains. Finally, you will reach Lassen Volcanic National Park, where you can explore the breathtaking landscapes and discover the volcanic wonders of the area. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please take a look at the "Itinerary" of this stage. Enjoy your journey!

Embark on a 116-mile road trip from Lassen Volcanic National Park in the United States to Klamath Falls! With a driving time of fewer than three hours, you'll be able to take in the picturesque landscapes of the region and make the most of your journey. Along the way, you'll get to visit some of the most interesting places, such as the Susan River, the Pit River, and the Fall River. Keep your eyes open for the breathtaking views of the mountains and forests that you'll find in these areas. You'll also get to experience the unique geology of the area, with its volcanic features, lava formations, and hot springs. As you drive, you'll be able to take in the beauty of the vast open spaces, and you may even spot some local wildlife. At the end of your journey, you'll arrive in Klamath Falls, where you can explore the city's many attractions and activities. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, you can find it in the "Itinerary" of this stage. So, come and explore the wonders of Lassen Volcanic National Park and Klamath Falls on this amazing road trip!

Welcome road-trippers! Get ready for an amazing journey that starts in Klamath Falls and ends in Weed, a distance of 72mi and a driving time of fewer than 2 hours. In Klamath Falls, make sure to visit the Klamath County Museum, the Favell Museum of Western Art and Artifacts, and the Klamath Basin National Wildlife Refuges. For outdoor activities, visit the beautiful Crater Lake National Park and the Oregon Caves National Monument. In Weed, you can explore the Weed Historic Lumber Town Museum, the Lake Shastina Golf Resort, and the Mount Shasta City Park. If you're looking to get closer to nature, you can visit the McCloud River Falls, the McCloud River Fish Hatchery, and the Mossbrae Falls. This is one of the stages of a larger tour, and more information regarding attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route is available in the "Itinerary" of this stage. Enjoy your road trip!

Embark on a road trip from Weed to Crater Lake National Park and experience some of the most beautiful scenery in the United States! This 65-mile journey will take you less than two hours and you’ll be able to enjoy the picturesque landscapes of Northern California. Start in Weed, a small town in the Shasta Valley that boasts a variety of outdoor activities and attractions. From there, make your way to nearby McCloud, a charming mountain town with a rich history and plenty of outdoor recreation opportunities. Next, you’ll find yourself in the majestic Shasta-Trinity National Forest, where you can enjoy hiking, camping, and fishing. Pass by majestic Mount Shasta and take in the breathtaking views of the region’s snow-capped mountains and crystal-clear lakes. Finally, arrive at Crater Lake National Park, home to the deepest lake in the United States. Enjoy the stunning views of the lake, the old-growth forests, and the unique geological formations. Throughout your journey, you’ll be able to take advantage of the many attractions, accommodation options, restaurants, and campsites available along the route. For more information, be sure to check the Itinerary for this stage of your road trip!

Embark on an exciting road trip from Crater Lake National Park to Eugene! With a distance of 139 miles and a driving time of fewer than 4 hours, you'll have plenty of time to explore the best of both locations. Start your journey at the Crater Lake National Park and take in the breathtaking views of the deepest lake in the United States. Be sure to take a boat tour to the Wizard Island and explore the surrounding area. Once you're done, head to the nearby Diamond Lake and take part in the many recreational activities it offers. As you make your way to Eugene, take a detour to the Umpqua National Forest and marvel at the stunning views of the Cascade Mountains. Here, you'll find plenty of camping spots, hiking trails, and majestic waterfalls. Once you reach Eugene, don't miss out on the chance to explore the city's many attractions. Visit the University of Oregon, the Jordan Schnitzer Museum of Art, and the Mount Pisgah Arboretum. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, check the "Itinerary" of this stage. Enjoy your road trip from Crater Lake National Park to Eugene!

Eugene, Oregon is the perfect end to the Volcanic Legacy Road Trip. Located in the scenic Willamette Valley, Eugene is the second-largest city in Oregon and is known for its friendly atmosphere, its abundance of outdoor activities, and its commitment to supporting local business. Eugene’s downtown area is the perfect place to explore. With its vibrant art galleries, unique boutiques, and eclectic restaurants, there is something for everyone. If you’re looking for some outdoor adventure, Eugene is home to the Willamette River, several parks, and plenty of trails for hiking and biking. For those looking for a more relaxed experience, Eugene is home to several wineries and breweries. With its large selection of craft beers and locally-sourced food and wine, it’s the perfect place to kick back and enjoy the scenery. For those traveling by air, the closest international airport to Eugene is the Eugene Airport (EUG). From there, you can easily rent a car and begin your journey to Eugene. Whether you’re looking for outdoor adventure, a relaxing getaway, or some unique shopping, Eugene is the perfect place to end the Volcanic Legacy Road Trip. With its friendly atmosphere, abundance of activities, and commitment to supporting local businesses, you’ll be sure to have a great time in Eugene.

Before you set off

The Volcanic Legacy Scenic Byway is a mesmerizing journey through the Pacific Northwest of the United States, offering a vivid display of the region's volcanic heritage. Stretching approximately 500 miles (805 km), this alluring route is typically recommended as a 5 to 7-day adventure to fully savor its offerings, starting at California's Lassen Volcanic National Park and culminating at Oregon's Crater Lake National Park.

Key Destinations and Top Sights:

Along the Volcanic Legacy Scenic Byway, travelers will be enthralled by the diverse and dynamic landscapes shaped by volcanic activity. Lassen Volcanic National Park is home to sputtering fumaroles, boiling springs, and volcanic gas vents known as solfataras. The park also features the cinder cone volcano, Lassen Peak, which last erupted in 1915. Further north, the route passes through the enchanting Shasta Valley with views of the majestic Mount Shasta, a potentially active volcano that is the second-highest peak in the Cascade Range.

Travelers can also explore the McArthur-Burney Falls Memorial State Park, where the stunning 129-foot Burney Falls cascades into a pool below. The journey continues to the Newberry National Volcanic Monument, offering a unique landscape of lava tubes and the expansive Newberry Caldera. The Trip culminates at Crater Lake National Park, where the deep blue Crater Lake, formed by the collapse of Mount Mazama about 7,700 years ago, captivates visitors with its serene beauty.

Best Time to Go:

The optimal time to embark on the Volcanic Legacy Road Trip is from late spring to early fall, when the weather is favorable, and the full range of the byway's attractions, including the national parks and monuments, are accessible.

Interesting Facts for Roadtrippers:

• The byway is part of the National Scenic Byways Program and is one of only 31 All-American Roads in the United States, recognized for its exceptional scenic, historic, and cultural significance.
• Lassen Volcanic National Park is one of the few places on earth where all four types of volcanoes (shield, composite, cinder cone, and plug dome) can be found.
• Crater Lake is the deepest lake in the United States, with a depth of 1,943 feet (592 meters), and is renowned for its clarity and striking blue color.

A good choice for:

For those captivated by the drama of Earth's geological processes and the allure of unspoiled natural beauty, the Volcanic Legacy Scenic Byway offers an unrivaled opportunity to explore the legacy of the Pacific Ring of Fire. This journey promises a rich tapestry of experiences, from witnessing the raw power of volcanic landscapes to enjoying tranquil moments by pristine lakes, making it an unforgettable adventure for Roadtrippers.