Lassen National Forest

Several highways, forest roads and trails allow access to the region. The Caribou, Thousand Lakes and Ishi wilderness areas allow backpacking. Campfire permits are required, except in campgrounds with developed facilities. Obtain permits in person at any Forest Service, Bureau of Land Management or California Department of Forestry Office. Visitors enjoy hunting, fishing, cross-country skiing and snowmobiling.

The Subway Cave lava tube, about .1 mile north of SR 44 off SR 89, winds 1,300 feet through a lava flow that covered the Hat Creek Valley nearly 20,000 years ago. Carry a jacket and a reliable lantern or flashlight while exploring the .3-mile self-guiding interpretive trail through this cave. The temperature in the cave is 46 degrees Fahrenheit year-round.

Lake Almanor, one of the largest man-made bodies of water in California, and Eagle Lake, the second largest natural lake in California, offer fishing, sailing, water skiing and swimming. Eagle Lake and Hat Creek offer trout fishing. Recreation sites usually are open mid-May to mid-October (weather permitting); the season is shorter at higher elevations. For more information contact the Supervisor's Office, Lassen National Forest, 2550 Riverside Dr., Susanville, CA 96130; phone (530) 257-2151.