The Manzanita Creek Trail begins from Manzanita Campground and winds its way through the creek drainage to the meadows between Loomis Peak and Crescent Cliff. The trail is three and a half miles one way with an elevation gain of 1,210 feet. It leads through thick forested terrain then into open meadows with views of the surrounding volcanic formations.

Begin this hike from the southernmost loop of Manzanita Lake Campground. Hike southeastward on a wide abandoned dirt road. The grade of the trail is moderate for the first half mile then gets steeper. About a mile from the trailhead the trail makes a sharp turn westward then ascends a steep slope for a half mile and levels.

Two miles from the campground the trail crosses Manzanita Creek at 6,680 feet. Continue climbing moderately beyond this crossing. Within a third of a mile the trail levels slightly and you enter the first of two large meadows. Wildflowers abound as you walk through this flat area. Continue along the creek, following the trail into another, larger meadow. Lassen Peak, 10,457 feet, lies to your left as you ascend the trail. Loomis Peak, 8,658, lies to the right. Crescent Cliff is the steep formation to your immediate right.

Directions: From Northwest Entrance, Drive southeastward on Highway 89, past the Loomis Museum to the Manzanita Lake Campground Road. Turn right and travel a half mile to the Manzanita Lake parking area. Park your vehicle and walk into the campground and to its southernmost point in loop F. The trail begins from the southernmost road in the campground.

Elevation: 5,930 feet

Ending Elevation: 7,140 feet

Usage: Moderate

Difficulty: Moderate

Visitor Information