Lassen is a small park. I’ve spent a week there and practically hiked every trail and seen every attraction worth seeing. The size and the relative obscurity are two reasons it is the forgotten gem of the national park system. Another reason to visit is to hike to the summit of a real volcano, albeit a sleeping one. Lassen’s volcanic fields are nothing compared to Yellowstone but they are more welcoming and intimate. If you are there for the first time, you will probably want to trek up Mt. Lassen but it’s a triesome and shadeless series of switchbacks. The hike to Brokeoff Mountain, the second highest elevation in the park, is much better. It is a beautiful walk through forests and bubbling creeks with lots of wildlife and few people. The view is just as good and you can wave to the people on the top of Mount Lassen!