Sunday, July 17, 2016

Kings Creek Falls (Lassen Volcanic National Park, California)


After good night's sleep in the cool alpine air of 7500' feet, Bill and I broke down our tents and started packing the jeep. As this was intended to be a relaxing weekend, we weren't in any big rush, but eventually headed out for our first trail of the day - King's Creek Falls. It's just a short drive from the campsite, but once we reach the trail head, I park the jeep in the pull-off and we make our way down a set of stone steps to the start of the trail. 

Intending to do a full 5-ish mile loop, we pushed our pace pretty hard as the trail moves along and above a small stream. That stream would become the source of the falls, but before we learn that, we have to deal with some trail closures/detours. Apparently, the hiking conditions are dangerous on the trail to the falls due to snow and loose rocks. The Park Service has closed it temporarily and suggested an alternative that takes us to an overlook, high above the cascading falls. 


Once we arrive at the end of the detour, we are greeted with a nice view of King Creek flowing through a stone canyon and cascading over a several small falls. Other hikers have found perches on the various rocks and are taking in some of nature's beauty. We spend a few minutes more, before heading back to the jeep. 


With the detour and closure, this was just short hike of 1.5 miles or so, but it was a good way to start the morning. On to the next one!

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