Manzanita Lake
Manzanita Lake at Lassen Volcanic National Park is like nature's own mirror, reflecting the beauty of the surrounding landscape. Whether you're an early bird catching the sunrise or a sunset chaser, this spot has got you covered. Let's dive into the photography opportunities, here at Manzanita Lake!
Manzanita Lake Trail
The Manzanita Lake Trail is an easy, scenic loop that offers stunning views of Lassen Peak and Chaos Crags. The trail is about 1.7 miles round trip and takes around an hour to complete. It's a great way to explore the area and find the perfect spots for your photos. The trail starts at the Manzanita Lake Day Use Area or Loomis Plaza, and parking is available at the boat launch. Just remember, bikes and pets are not allowed on the trail, so leave Fido at home for this one. There are no bad photography angles here!
Sunrise Photography at Manzanita Lake
Imagine waking up before dawn, grabbing your camera, and heading to Manzanita Lake. As the first rays of sunlight peek over the horizon, they paint the sky with hues of orange and pink, casting a warm glow over the lake and the surrounding mountains. The reflections on the water create a serene and ethereal atmosphere, perfect for capturing those dreamy sunrise shots. 🌄📸 But if there are no clouds out, drop your F-Stop and catch a sun-star!
Flora and Fauna
Manzanita Lake is a haven for wildlife and wildflowers. Keep an eye out for black-tailed deer, Douglas squirrels, and golden-mantled ground squirrels. The lake is also a popular spot for songbirds and waterbirds, making it a great place for wildlife photography. (I was homesick, so I found some Canada Geese) In the spring and summer, the area is adorned with vibrant wildflowers, adding a splash of color to your shots.
Fun Fact: Did you know that Manzanita Lake was created by a rockfall collapse of Chaos Crags?
So, pack your camera, your sense of adventure, and maybe a snack or two, and get ready to capture the magic of Manzanita Lake. Whether it's sunrise or sunset, this spot has something special to offer. Happy photographing, and may your shots be as epic as the park itself! 📸🌄
Where to next?
Manzanita Lake
Devastated Area
Summit Lake
Hiking Mt. Lassen
Lake Helen
Bumpass Hell
Sulphur Works
Brokeoff Mountain