Reflection of Lassen Peak on Manzanita Lake

Manzanita Lake

Manzanita Lake

Manzanita Lake sits at an elevation of 5,846 feet at the base of Chaos Crags, near the NW entrance of Lassen Volcanic National Park

Manzanita Lake offers outdoor activities year-round, for quiet water pursuits, non-motorized boating, fishing, and swimming in the summer. Kayak rentals are available from Memorial Day through October.

Manzanita Lake is a favorite of photographers and the most photographed lake in the park.  Near sunset, the lighting is perfect for photographers to capture the reflections of Lassen Peak on the lake.  After dark photography of the Milky Way rising over Lassen Peak, is also a favorite of both professional and amateur photographers.

Winter activities of snowshoeing, cross country skiing, and snow play are all available.

Facilities

During the summer, the Manzanits Lake Camper Store has supplies for picnicking, camping, fishing and souvenoirs. Single and double kayak rentals are available. Lassen Park Rangers offer interperetive programs during summer months near Manzanita Lake.

ADA accessible facilities near Manzanita Lake include the Loomis Museum, Manzanita Lake Camper Store, restrooms and selected camper cabins

Manzanita Lake has a maximum depth of 32 feet and a surface water temperature of 62-68 degrees, making it one of the warmest lakes to swim in at Lassen Park.

The calm waters of Manzanita Lake make it an ideal place for kayaking and canoeing.  Both single and double kayaks are available for rent from late May through Sept.  Rental pricing.

Considered one of the best fishing lakes in Lassen Volcanic National Park, it is designated a Wild Trout Waters Fishery by the State of California.

Fishing limited to catch and release with a single, barbless hook. Lures and flies allowed on the lake, no living or non-living bait may allowed on Manzanita Lake.

Manzanita Lake is an excellent lake for introducing children to fishing, and an exceptional fly-fishing destination. Fishing from the shore or float tube is best.

Major P.B. Ready stocked the first fish that ever swam in Manzanita Lake in 1848. Manzanita Lake has been studied as a fishery for over 60 years and has not been stocked for over 30 years.  If interested, read the management plan for the lake.

Additional local fishing lakes to check out.

Winter activities of snowshoeing, cross country skiing, and snow play are all available.

Know Before You Go

Check the park website ahead of time for current alerts and conditions.

Main park road is not open to vehicles during the winter months and road opening is dependent on snow removal being completed.

Entrance fees apply when entering the park

Cellular access is extremely limited in the park. 

Dogs are not allowed on the trails.

Be prepared for quickly changing weather.

 

Fun Facts

Manzanita Lake was formed about 300 years ago with a rock slide in Manzanita Creek.

Manzanita means “little apple” in Spanish.

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