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I started my hike at about 2:30pm in the afternoon. There were
some clouds in the sky, but nothing threatening. It's a self-guiding
trail; a pamphlet is available for 50 cents at the trailhead.
The trail is definitely made for families and those who aren't
up for more challenging hikes such as Lassen Peak.
Brokeoff Mountain over Little Hot Springs Valley
Still, it is a hike and it is mostly on a real trail. It travels
somewhat uneventfully, providing some views of Lake Helen and
Little Hot Springs Valley. After a little over a mile it reaches
an overlook into Bumpass Hell -- a crater filled with all sorts
of volcanic misfits -- boiling pools, bubbling mud pots, steam
vents, and general stinkiness. Much more impressive than Sulphur
Works.
Bumpass Hell
The trail heads down into Bumpass Hell, with a boardwalk weaving
its way in and around all the action. It's relatively safe, but
I started having my doubts after reading that one of the boiling
pools "acquired" an older section of the boardwalk years ago.
The boardwalks aren't the sturdiest in the world, and the pools
aren't called boiling for nothing. 21 people have been seriously
burned in the past 10 years (a sign at the trailhead says so).
Boiling mud pot at Bumpass Hell
The clouds were getting darker, but it never did rain. I retraced
my steps back up from Bumpass Hell and back to the parking area.
Warning signs at Bumpass Hell
Return to Lassen Volcanic NP trip report.
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