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Prospect Peak
Hike Prospect Peak, one of the major peaks in Lassen.
Plan Around Prospect Peak
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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.
Prospect Peak Details
Prospect Peak is one of the major peaks in Lassen Volcanic National Park. With close to 2,000 feet of prominence, it can be seen from many different directions and from fairly far away. Compared to the Cinder Cone Trail, which shares the same approach from Butte Lake, Prospect Peak is a little longer, shadier, and definitely less traveled. Both hikes, however, have incredible vistas of the Painted Dunes, the Fantastic Lava Flows, and the plateaus of Lassen. On a clear day, you may be able to see Mt. Shasta, Lassen Peak, Mt. McCoughlin, and views of the Caribou Wilderness. From Butte Lake, you'll hike 3.75 miles to the top of Prospect Peak and gain 2,500 feet of elevation. Follow the signs towards Cinder Cone. At this point, you'll be hiking on the Nobles Emigrant Trail, used by settlers in the 1850s and 1860s. Take the signed trail junction on the right after about a half mile to get to the summit of Prospect Peak. Once at the summit, hike around the crater ring. The hike isn't too exciting except for the absolutely incredible views at the top. Only two Lassen trails surpass Prospect Peak for elevation gain -- Brokeoff Mountain & Jakey Lake loop) -- so be prepared to do a bit of huffing and puffing. There is a backcountry campsite at the summit for those looking to camp. Remember that you must obtain a wilderness permit in order to spend the night. The trailhead to Prospect Peak is located at Butte Lake. Follow the signs and trail heading towards the Cinder Cone. After .45 miles, there is a signed junction that takes you to the summit of Prospect Peak.
Difficulty
High
Distance
7 miles
Estimated time
6-7 hours
Region
N/A
Nearby Parks Around Prospect Peak
Compare nearby parks around Prospect Peak when deciding whether to expand the route after this stop.
Nearby Points of Interest Around Prospect Peak
Use nearby POIs to quickly expand your options beyond Prospect Peak while the map context is still fresh.
0.0 mi away
The Fantastic Lava Beds
Miles and miles of solidified black lava are truly fantastic!
0.0 mi away
Cinder Cone Trail
See the Cinder Cone Volcano up close and personal!
0.0 mi away
Snag Lake Loop Trail
A 14-mile loop that visits Rainbow Lake and Snag Lake.
0.1 mi away
Widow Lake Trail
A nine-mile out-and-back trail in Lassen's least-visited area.
