Lassen Volcanic National Park
May 27, 2001

Lassen Volcanic Nat'l Park is about a 3.5 hour drive from San Francisco. Once there, you'll find green valleys, towering mountains, waterfalls, hot springs and vents, and more. The highlight is the 10,500 ft Mt. Lassen, which I believe is the only active volcano in California (it's last big eruption was in 1915).

Myself and two friends took the grueling 5 mile roundtrip trail up to the top of the mountain. The narrow trail gains 2,500 feet and isn't for the faint of heart. Once at the top you'll be rewarded with some great views, not to mention the satisfaction of making it to the top.