Bathtub Lake Loop

Overview

This is a short, easygoing loop in the Butte Lake corner of the park that pairs the broad shoreline of Butte Lake with the quieter, more intimate Bathtub Lake. Variants abound: a straightforward out-and-back to Bathtub Lake (~1.0 mile total), a tiny “little loop” (~0.9 mile total), and a longer loop (~2.3 miles total) that swings past both lakes. Expect gentle grades and a mostly peaceful vibe that’s great for families and anyone looking to stretch their legs without committing to a big climb.

What You’ll See

Underfoot you’ll crunch through volcanic cinders in a sparse, open forest—classic Lassen terrain. The route passes a small unnamed pond before reaching Bathtub Lake, a sweet spot for a quiet picnic and, when conditions allow, a refreshing swim. You’ll also notice post-fire landscapes in places: standing snags and open slopes can expand views but also give parts of the loop a stark, recovering feel.

Distance, Elevation, and Variants

Pick your flavor:

• Out-and-back to Bathtub Lake: about 1.0 mile with roughly 150 feet of gain.
• Little Loop: about 0.9 mile with ~120 feet of gain.
• Longer loop (the namesake “Loop” most people mean): roughly 2.3 miles with up to ~400 feet of gain across an elevation range near 6,000–6,250 feet.

All distances are total, not one-way.

Trail Experience and Navigation

The walking is easy, but signage is sparse and some footpaths can be faint, especially in burned sections. A downloaded map on your phone makes this outing smoother. On the longer loop, expect occasional small creek crossings; trekking poles are handy if balance isn’t your favorite sport.

Best Time to Hike

June through October is the sweet spot; snow can linger outside that window. Early summer often brings wildflowers along open stretches. Summer afternoons run hot on these cindery, sun-exposed slopes—go early or late for cooler temps and better light on the lakes. Weekdays see the fewest people; even then, Bathtub Lake tends to stay pretty quiet compared to the busier Butte Lake shoreline.

Logistics

Park at the Butte Lake Parking Area; restrooms are available nearby. No special permit is required for day hiking here, though standard park entry fees apply. Pets aren’t permitted on park trails, including this one.

Is It Worth It?

If you’re after a quick, low-effort lakes walk with real serenity, yes. It’s not a “wow” hike in the grand sense, but it’s pleasantly underrated—especially for families or anyone camping at Butte Lake. Choose the short versions when you just want a dip and a picnic; opt for the longer loop for a touch more variety and views.