Cinder Cone Trail

Pass the main access to the cinder cone (Cinder Cone Trail N. Access). A short time later, turn left onto the trail that seems to circle the cinder cone. Hike around the cinder cone, then turn left up its eastern/southeastern flank. The trail is steep, cinder, and less maintained than the trail up the northwestern flank. Once on the rim, hike along the outer rim (0.6 miles) for outstanding views of Mt. Lassen and the surrounding colorful cinder fields. Or, hike around the inner rim (0.5 miles) for an in-crater experience without needing the stamina required to reach the bottom. There is also a trail to the bottom of the crater (0.1 miles one way), but be prepared to hike back up the very steep trail!