Volcano Land Road Trip Itinerary
The Volcano Land Road Trip is an exciting journey that takes you through the heart of Northern California. Starting in the city of Eureka and ending in Chester, this 580 km route takes you through some of the most beautiful and unique landscapes in the United States.
The first stop is Redding, where you can soak up the views of the Sacramento Valley. Then you'll travel through the majestic Mount Shasta, with its snow-capped peaks and stunning views. From there, you'll journey through the Lassen Volcanic National Park, where you can explore the volcanic terrain and witness the steaming hot springs.
The best time of year to take this road trip is during the summer months, when the weather is warm and the landscapes are lush. The roads are in good condition, making it suitable for all types of drivers.
This road trip provides an unforgettable experience and memories that will last a lifetime. It can be done on a moderate budget, making it accessible to all. So, if you're looking for an adventure that will take your breath away, the Volcano Land Road Trip is perfect for you.
3
number of days
580 km
route length
fair
budget
family
good for
on the right
traffic direction
moderate
accident level
START
Eureka
Distance 580 km
Driving time 7.4 h
Pace: fast
174.0 kWh
Airports
ACV
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Eureka, located in Northwestern California, is the perfect starting point for the "Volcano Land Road Trip". This small town is a great way to begin your adventure, as it has plenty of interesting sights to explore. The Eureka Boardwalk is a great place to start, offering a wide variety of shops and restaurants. Here, you can find a variety of souvenirs and trinkets to take home.
For those who prefer to spend their time outdoors, Eureka has much to offer. The Sequoia Park Zoo is a great place to explore the natural wildlife of the area, while the Sequoia Park Gardens provide a peaceful and beautiful setting. The nearby beaches of Trinidad and Clam Beach are perfect for a day of relaxation.
For those traveling by air, the closest international airport to Eureka is the Arcata-Eureka Airport (ACV). Car rental services are available at the airport, making it easy to start your road trip right away.
Eureka is the perfect starting point to the "Volcano Land Road Trip," offering the perfect mix of outdoor exploration and cultural attractions. With the Arcata-Eureka Airport close by, you can begin your journey right away.
1
Eureka
- Redding
Distance 236 km
Driving time 3.0 h
Pace: fast
70.7 kWh
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Itinerary
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Take a 146mi road trip from Eureka to Redding, California and explore the best of the two cities in less than 3 hours! Start off your journey by visiting the heart of Eureka, Old Town. Here, you can explore the historic waterfront, browse the unique shops and restaurants and visit the Sequoia Park Zoo.
As you drive along the picturesque coastal highway, you'll pass through the majestic redwood forests and the quaint towns of Ferndale, Loleta and Fortuna. Make sure to stop at the Avenue of the Giants, a scenic drive through the redwood forests, and visit the world's tallest living tree, the Hyperion.
Continue your journey to Redding, where you can explore the Sundial Bridge, the iconic bridge that spans the Sacramento River. Enjoy a stroll along the beautiful trails of the Turtle Bay Exploration Park and explore the McConnell Arboretum and Botanical Gardens.
For more information regarding attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please check out the “Itinerary” of this stage. Enjoy your road trip from Eureka to Redding!
Redding - United States - North America - Road Trip - Wikimedia Commons
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2
Redding
- Mt. Shasta
Distance 100 km
Driving time 1.1 h
Pace: fast
30.0 kWh
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Itinerary
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Welcome to the Redding-Mt. Shasta road trip stage! This is an amazing 62 mi drive that will take you fewer than 2 hours to complete. Along the way you will have the opportunity to visit some of the most interesting places in both Redding and Mt. Shasta.
In Redding, you will find the Turtle Bay Exploration Park, a cultural and educational center with interactive exhibits, art galleries, and a wildlife center. You can also explore the Sundial Bridge, a pedestrian bridge over the Sacramento River with a unique design that allows the sun to pass through it.
In Mt. Shasta, the most interesting places to visit are the Mount Shasta Ski Park, a ski resort with a variety of slopes and trails, and the Mt. Shasta City Park, a great place to relax and enjoy nature.
This is just one of the stages of your road trip. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, check out the Itinerary of this stage. Enjoy your trip!
Mt. Shasta - United States - North America - Road Trip - Wikimedia Commons
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3
Mt. Shasta
- Lassen Volcanic N.P.
Distance 171 km
Driving time 2.2 h
Pace: fast
51.3 kWh
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Embark on an incredible road trip through Northern California, starting in Mt. Shasta and ending in Lassen Volcanic National Park, a 106mi drive that will take you fewer than 3 hours.
Begin your journey in Mt. Shasta, a beautiful city surrounded by the majestic Mount Shasta, the second-highest peak in the Cascade Range. Don't miss the opportunity to take a hike to the summit, or to explore the nearby Castle Lake and McCloud Falls.
Continue your drive to Lassen Volcanic National Park, a paradise of forests, meadows and mountains. Here you can find the largest plug dome volcano in the world, Lassen Peak, and the Sulphur Works, an area of boiling mudpots and steaming fumaroles. You can also explore the hydrothermal areas, the forests, and the many trails.
Don't forget to take a look at the Manzanita Lake, the largest lake in the park, and the Devastated Area, a place of stark beauty and contrast.
This is only one stage 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 drive!
Lassen Volcanic N.P. - United States - North America - Road Trip - National Park Service
Lassen Volcanic N.P. - United States - North America - Road Trip - National Park Service
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4
Lassen Volcanic N.P.
- Chester
Distance 74 km
Driving time 1.1 h
Pace: fast
22.1 kWh
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Itinerary
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Welcome to the Lassen Volcanic National Park to Chester road trip! This trip is only 46 miles long and should take you less than two hours to complete.
Your first stop is Lassen Volcanic National Park, a beautiful area of active volcanoes and hydrothermal features, such as mudpots and fumaroles. Don’t forget to check out the park’s volcanoes, including the Lassen Peak, the largest volcano in the park, and the Devastated Area, a landscape of lava flows, cinder cones, and lava tube caves.
Next, you’ll pass through the towns of Old Station, Hat Creek, and Burney. Here, you’ll find some great restaurants and shops to explore.
Finally, you’ll arrive in Chester. This small town is located on the shore of Lake Almanor and is known for its fishing, boating, and hiking opportunities. Here, you can find the Chester Park, which includes a playground and picnic area, as well as the Chester Airport, which offers scenic flights over the lake.
For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please check the Itinerary of this stage. Enjoy your trip!
Chester - United States - North America - Road Trip - Flickr
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Chester
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Chester, United States, is the perfect place to end your Volcano Land Road Trip. Located in Plumas County, Chester is a beautiful mountain town with a rich history. With plenty of outdoor activities and attractions, it’s the perfect place to spend a few days.
If you’re looking for outdoor adventure, the Sierra Nevada mountains are the perfect playground. Hiking, biking, kayaking, and fishing are just a few of the activities you can enjoy in the area. For those looking to relax, there’s the beautiful Lake Almanor, where you can take a leisurely stroll or a boat ride.
If you’re looking for more of an indoor activity, head to the Chester Museum and Historical Society. Here you can learn about the town’s history, including its past as a logging town. The museum also features a variety of exhibits, including some about the area’s Native American culture.
Chester is also home to the Plumas-Sierra County Fair, a four-day event that features live music, carnival attractions, and more. This is the perfect place to end your Volcano Land Road Trip.
The closest international airport to Chester is Sacramento International Airport (SMF). From there, it’s an hour and a half drive to Chester, making it an easy and convenient way to end your road trip.
Chester is the perfect place to end your Volcano Land Road Trip. With plenty of outdoor activities and attractions, you’ll be sure to find something to do, whether it’s relaxing or getting out and exploring. Make sure to check out the Chester Museum and Historical Society and the Plumas-Sierra County Fair, and you’ll be sure to have a great time!
Chester - United States - North America - Road Trip - Wikimedia Commons
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Volcano Land Road Trip at a glance
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Start:
Eureka
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End:
Chester
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Distance:
580 km
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Stay:
3 days
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Getting there:
California Redwood Coast-Humboldt County International Airport (ACV)
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When to drive:
April, May, June, July, August, September, October
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More info:
More info you can find in the "Itinerary" section at each stage.
Before you set off
Embark on the Volcano Land Road Trip, an awe-inspiring 580 km journey through the heart of Northern California, commencing in the coastal city of Eureka and culminating in the quaint town of Chester. This route not only treats travelers to magnificent landscapes and distinctive geological wonders but also weaves through rich cultural and historical tapestries of the region.
Key Destinations and Top Sights:
- Redding: Experience the grandeur of the Sacramento Valley, and don't miss the iconic Sundial Bridge, a marvel of engineering and design.
- Mount Shasta: Marvel at the majestic, snow-capped Mount Shasta, a potentially active volcano that soars to 14,179 feet (4,322 meters), offering breathtaking views and a hub for spiritual seekers.
- Lassen Volcanic National Park: Delve into diverse volcanic landscapes with bubbling mud pots, clear mountain lakes, and numerous hydrothermal sites like Bumpass Hell. This park is home to all four types of volcanoes found in the world: shield, composite, cinder cone, and plug dome.
Best Time to Go:
To fully appreciate the flourishing scenery and partake in the myriad of outdoor activities, plan your Trip between late June and early October. During this period, the weather is typically warm and dry, and the Roads and trails are most accessible.
Potential Risks:
While traversing through the rugged terrain of volcanic zones, travelers should be prepared for abrupt climatic shifts and remain informed about potential volcanic alerts or Road closures, especially in areas near Mount Shasta and Lassen Volcanic National Park.
Interesting Facts for Roadtrippers:
- The route is meticulously maintained, ensuring a smooth ride for travelers of all skill levels.
- The journey is cost-effective, balancing the splendors of nature with the thrill of discovery.
- There are countless opportunities for engaging in outdoor pursuits such as hiking, fishing, and exploring the unique volcanic features, providing an enriching experience for nature enthusiasts and adventurers alike.
A good choice for:
The Volcano Land Road Trip is an exceptional and economical adventure, ideal for anyone wishing to immerse themselves in the raw beauty and dynamic geological forces of Northern California. With its combination of accessibility and striking natural wonders, it's a journey that promises to leave lasting impressions and a deeper appreciation for Earth's volcanic creations.