June 20, 2020, King’s Creek Falls trailhead
I found myself with time to kill in Lassen National Park, having hiked to the summit of the park’s main volcano well before noon. being mid-June, many of the park’s signature attractions were still closed, due to snow, including the signature Bumpass Hell area with its steam vents and bubbling mud pits. That said, Kings Creek Falls caught my eye as a fun cool-down hike.
The Approach
The trail begins with some modest tree cover along the namesake Kings Creek. It was still Spring here: technically, by one day, but also functionally, given Lassen’s late snowmelt. And lots of green, leafy things sprouted up out of the marshy, muddy grounds.
I found the namesake creek quite charming. It wound about through the meadow surrounded by conifers. I’m not sure you could ask for a more idyllic scene.
After a short ways, the trail split in two. A sign advised downhill traffic to keep left. This brought me out towards an open rocky ledge with some expansive views into the park. Then the trail descended towards the Falls.
Kings Creek Falls
Then I reached the falls! They were nice … for a west coast waterfall 🙂
After soaking in the Falls I began the modest climb back towards the trailhead. This ascent went directly along the creek up some fun narrow stone steps along minor waterfalls. The roaring water and fun setting helped to distract from the climb in full sun. That said, there were more than a couple casual day trippers stopping to catch their breath here.
I arrived back at the (shady) trailhead, and began my journey home from Lassen. About an hour downhill from the park, I stopped to take in one last view of Lassen Peak and Brokeoff Mountain, lit up in the distance by the afternoon sun. It was a nice day all around!
