Brokeoff Volcano Vista

Brokeoff Volcano Vista is a small roadside terrace at the southwest end of the Bumpass Hell parking area, above Little Hot Springs Valley. It's separate from the Bumpass Hell trailhead at the other end of the lot, so it's an easy geology stop even if you aren't hiking. The shared parking is limited and fills quickly in summer; continue to the southwest end for the vista.

The ridge across Little Hot Springs Valley is part of Brokeoff Volcano, also known as Mount Tehama. It grew between about 600,000 and 400,000 years ago, reaching roughly the size of Mount St. Helens before erosion stripped most of it away. Brokeoff Mountain, Mount Diller and Mount Conard are remnants of that older volcano. The view makes it easier to picture the much bigger mountain that used to fill this corner of the park.

A lone glacial erratic sits on the small rock terrace below the wayside panels. It's the main foreground detail for a photo with the broken volcanic ridge across the valley; turn around and Lassen Peak rises behind you. The terrace is only a short walk from the lot.

This open pullout is also a stargazing spot, but it's exposed, cold and often windy year-round. Bring warm layers for a night look. Vault toilets are at the parking area, and water isn't available here. The park highway needs heavy snow cleared each spring, so high-country access may not start early. Camping and overnight parking aren't allowed in the lot.