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Lake Helen
A must-see glacial lake located at the base of Lassen Peak.
Plan Around Lake Helen
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Use this detail page to confirm that the stop is worth it, then carry that decision into a trip draft while the park context is still fresh.
Lake Helen Details
You van visit what's considered to be the snowiest place in California without ever leaving the road (although you should if you can). Lake Helen is located at an elevation over 8,000 feet, and covered in snow and ice for most of the year (up until mid-August). Throughout the winter, Pacific storms bring massive amounts of snow to the lake; snowfall usually totals around 600-700 inches. Lake Helen is located at the south flank of Lassen Peak and can be seen directly from the park road, which runs along its southern and eastern shores. The lake is incredibly blue, a product of the high mineral content of the water. It's also incredibly deep, reaching depths of around 110 feet. Those brave enough can dip their toes in or wade, but remember that because of the high elevation and persistent snow and ice, lake temperatures can be as cold as 35 degrees.
Difficulty
Low
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Nearby Parks Around Lake Helen
Compare nearby parks around Lake Helen when deciding whether to expand the route after this stop.
Nearby Points of Interest Around Lake Helen
Use nearby POIs to quickly expand your options beyond Lake Helen while the map context is still fresh.
0.3 mi away
Bumpass Hell Trail
Hike around the largest (and most renowned) hydrothermal area in Lassen.
0.8 mi away
Bumpass Hell
This 16-acre area in Lesson Volcanic National Park is a bubbling and hissy landscape of boiling hot springs.
