Cinder Cone Trail

Overview

This is Lassen’s otherworldly classic: a steep, sandy climb up a true cinder cone to sweeping views of the Painted Dunes and the Fantastic Lava Beds. Expect loose, sand-like cinders underfoot and a final punchy climb. The standard hike is about 4.0 miles total to the summit and back, with roughly 846 feet of elevation change. Many hikers extend it to 4.6–4.7 miles total by walking the rim and/or descending into the crater, which can push total gain near 1,100 feet. Plan around 3 hours round-trip for most groups.

Route and Highlights

From the Butte Lake Day Use Area (near the boat ramp), follow the Nobles Emigrant Trail as it skirts the Fantastic Lava Beds. At about 1.2 miles, you’ll reach the base of Cinder Cone and your first full look at the Painted Dunes. From there, a very steep path of loose cinders climbs the cone’s south side to the rim. Up top, take in wide-angle views of Lassen Peak, Prospect Peak, Snag Lake, the Painted Dunes, and the rough, blocky Fantastic Lava Beds. A path continues down into the cone’s crater if you want to explore—just remember you’ll have to come back up.

What Makes It Special

Geology is the headliner here. Cinder Cone is a scoria pile—gas-charged lava fragments that cooled midair and stacked into a cone a bit over 700 feet tall, capped with a double-rimmed crater. The surrounding color shows off the story: the Painted Dunes’ vivid tones come from volcanic ash oxidized by still-hot lava flows, and the Fantastic Lava Beds preserve the rugged surface of relatively young blocky lava.

Difficulty and Footing

It’s not the mileage that gets you—it’s the footing. The loose cinders feel like climbing a sand dune, and the final ~200 feet to the rim are especially slow and strenuous. Trekking poles help with both traction and balance; gaiters or tall socks keep cinders out of your shoes. Elevations range roughly from 6,060 to nearly 6,900 feet, which can add a touch of altitude effect if you’re coming from sea level.

Best Time to Hike

The road and trail are typically snow-free roughly June through November. Start early or late for cooler temps and more dramatic light on the Painted Dunes. Midday can be hot and harsh with very little shade on the cone itself. Evening ascents are popular for cooler conditions and great photography, but bring headlamps and know your route for the descent.

Logistics and Access

The trailhead sits in the remote northeast corner of the park at Butte Lake, reached by a 6-mile dirt/gravel road off Highway 44. It’s generally passable for most vehicles when dry, but it can be washboarded and dusty—budget extra time. There are no services at the trailhead beyond seasonal potable water at the adjacent campground when open. Cell service is minimal to none; download maps ahead of time.

Tips and Etiquette

• Carry plenty of water; there’s no water on-trail and little shade on the cone.
• Stay on established paths—cinders and ash scar easily, especially around the Painted Dunes and on the cone itself.
• Pets are not allowed on park hiking trails here.
• The Butte Lake/Cinder Cone area was largely unaffected by the 2021 Dixie Fire, but always check current conditions before you go.