Lassen Volcanic National Park: Twin Lakes
Ramble 8 miles out-and-back along a chain of shimmering lakes and enjoy a refreshing midsummer swim beneath the park's centerpiece, Lassen Peak.
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Waypoints
TWL001
Location: 40.4942092895508, -121.424301147461
Head east, wrapping north around Summit Lake’s glassy reflection.
TWL002
Location: 40.4936714172363, -121.421501159668
Left at 3-way, climbing east from Summit Lake. To the west, snowcapped Lassen Peak rises above the conical treetops.
TWL003
Location: 40.4966583251953, -121.407501220703
Right at Y to Echo Lake along path lined with dense conifers.
TWL004
Location: 40.4996490478516, -121.400573730469
Slight ascent before dropping into Echo Lake basin.
TWL005
Location: 40.4983901977539, -121.393997192383
Take a break at north end of Echo Lake for some private backcountry swimming, then turn left and follow the eastern shoreline, which is blanketed with lush, green growth that’s reflected in the water.
TWL006
Location: 40.4966506958008, -121.384902954102
Pass north side of tiny pond tucked into a semi-steep cove.
TWL007
Location: 40.5013084411621, -121.380897521973
Briefly skirt south long shore of narrow, unnamed pond.
TWL008
Location: 40.5015106201172, -121.375099182129
Reach peaceful west shore of Upper Twin Lake; turn left at 3-way bearing north.
TWL009
Location: 40.5041198730469, -121.369903564453
Grab lunch on the isthmus between Upper and Lower Twin Lakes while taking in views south of Crater Butte’s half-knob dome; retrace route to car.
From 2022