Spend a day camping, hiking and kayaking while surrounded by the serene and untamed wilderness of Lassen Volcanic National Park.
Juniper Lake is a secluded mountain lake surrounded by a beautiful natural landscape of deep valleys, dense forests and rolling hills. The lake sits at an elevation of 6,700 feet (2,040 meters) above sea level and has a 4.7-mile-long (7.6-kilometer) shoreline. Notice its blue-green water, which glistens in the sunlight. Visit the lake to admire the peaceful ambiance and breathe in the fresh mountain air.
Appreciate the stunning scenery as you walk along the lakeshore path. Wander amid tall pine trees, spot colorful wildflowers and listen for the sounds of wildlife such as deer, grasshoppers and squirrels. Bring food and enjoy a picnic accompanied by uninterrupted panoramas of the national park. Gaze up at the mountain peaks, which are sometimes coated with snow.
Hike the woodland trail to a fire lookout atop Mount Harkness. This 3.8-mile (6.1-kilometer) trail passes through a red fir forest, encounters switchbacks and climbs a shield volcano. Your reward for reaching the summit is the wondrous views back down to the lake. Rangers staff the lookout during the summer months and are happy to explain how they watch for fires in the park.
Fishing and motorized boats are prohibited at the lake, so the water remains calm. If you have your own equipment traverse the water by canoe, kayak and stand-up paddleboard. Alternatively, cool off on hot days by paddling and swimming.
Find the lake in the southeastern section of Lassen Volcanic National Park. Pay the park entrance fee at the entrance kiosks or purchase an annual pass for access to this park and numerous other National Park Service sites.
Juniper Lake is accessible year-round, although the road is open to car traffic only from June to October. Pre-booked and first-come, first-served campsites are available for a fee. Be aware that there are no provisions here the nearest towns to the lake are Chester and Westwood. Visit the official website of the National Park Service for more information about the park.
