Sooty Grouse are occasionally seen on the lower levels of the trail. Clark's Nutcracker and Mountain Chickadee are regular. Raven and Rock Wren typically present. Gray-crowned Rosy-Finch possible but they are unlikely.

This is a strenuous high altitude trail that starts at 8,500 feet above sea level and tops out at well over 10,000 feet. The view from the top is spectacular, but bear in mind that going all the way to the summit is roughly 5 miles roundtrip. The trail is often chilly even in midsummer, and patchy snow conditions persist some years. A steep rocky trail that should be hiked mindfully and with some forethought. The peak is prone to thunderstorms in late summer afternoons, and the exposed trail is not a place to get caught in one.

Many species are reported from the area of the peak trail, but many of them are not regular. Relatively few birds are actually reliably seen. In addition to the handful of birds, the area is home to a population of American Pika.

This is a very seasonal trail that is typically only accessible from June to mid-October. The trailhead starts from the Lassen Peak parking lot, which is paved and has bathrooms available (though very basic.)

Lassen Volcanic National Park covers over 100,000 acres at the southern end of the Cascade Mountain Range. The park is most famous for its volcanic features - the dormant volcanos Lassen Peak and Cinder Cone, the boiling springs of Bumpass Hell, bubbling mudpots, and steam vents. The numerous lakes and various trails through the coniferous forest make this a popular area to get out in nature. Several campgrounds are available. 

There is an entrance fee - prices vary depending on time of year and vehicle type, see the Park website for details. There are a few days a year the park is free admission, they are listed on the park fees page. There are staffed entrance stations on both highway entry points.

Most of the park is closed during the winter due to snowfall. This usually spans around November to May, but varies with the amount of snowfall.

For navigating inside the park, using the park's map is recommended over trying to use Apple or Google maps. Cell service is patchy to non-existent in much of the park.

Note: The park website lists two recommended addresses for navigation to the park, which correspond to the two visitor centers. Apple Maps pins both at the LVNP designated point - Google Maps will take you to the visitors centers.

Lassen Peak Trail - 5 miles roundtrip, strenuous high-altitude trail with significant elevation change.