Mount Lassen, a delightful yet challenging drive in California
Lassen Peak is a high mountain pass at an elevation of 2.604m (8,543ft) above the sea level, located in Shasta County, in the northern portion of the U.S. state of California.
Located within the Lassen Volcanic National Park, the road to the summit is paved with many curves and twists. It’s called Lassen Volcanic National Highway. The road is part of the California State Route 89 and was built in 1926. There are no guardrails on this route due to snow removal requirements.
Nestled in the Cascade Range, the winding mountain road is closed in winters. Clearing of the main park road (30 miles total), begins in April and on average takes 2 months before the road opens through. The road can close intermittently with inclement weather. The road is not recommended for vehicles longer than 45 feet in total length. At this elevation is the highest point of the road. The pass is 54.71km (34 miles) long running, northwest southwest from CA-44 (Manzanita Lake) to CA-36. Going through mountainous terrain, watch for wildlife and falling rocks. The southern section of the highway is windy and includes a handful of switchbacks.