When I first arrived in California back in early July, the first thing I did was meet up with my friend Evan and drive over to Yosemite National Park for a breathtaking weekend. When we first drove down into the valley, our jaws came unhinged as we gaped at the spectacular granite monoliths rising up from the valley floor to touch the sky. I remember thinking to myself, “There can be nothing as spectacular as Yosemite.” At least, nothing I would set eyes on for many years, if ever.
Which is why I was surprised, when, driving into Lassen Volcanic National Park just two months later, I found myself thinking that the ragged mountains dipping down into lush green valleys were just as amazing as Yosemite. And knowing about Lassen’s fascinating past (and present) as an active volcanic region made it even more stunning. The park ranger at the visitor center told me that they would be capable of knowing about Lassen Peak’s next eruption about a week in advance.
Miraculously, despite its splendor, I felt like I practically had the whole park to myself. The Kohm Yah-mah-nee Visitor Center felt like a cozy, small-town café compared to Yosemite Valley’s bustling tourist metropolis. And on the second day, as I hiked up to the summit of Brokeoff Mountain, I was the only human on the trail for hours. It wasn’t until I was right below the summit that other people began to catch up and pass me on the trail, and even then, there were only about 10 of us total on the trail for the whole day. The first time someone passed me, I jumped in surprise. I had almost forgotten that other people existed.
If you are an outdoorsperson, a nomad, a road-tripper, a photographer, or anyone with an attraction to nature, you must add Lassen to your list!
I will let my video and photos tell the rest of the story. Click on the photo collages to open a slideshow. Enjoy!
Van Meets World 
This is so inspiring Faith! Every time I read your blog posts, my soul wants to unleash into the great freedom of the unknown. The video here was a nice extra touch too! Lassen is now on my list!
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Hi Faith. I just found your web site through you tube. I just have to comment, I am so impressed with your web site as well as your you tube videos. One of the best I have seen online. The video made me smile and I just loved the feeling of going along with you on your hikes, etc. Thank you for putting this out in the world. I just turned 60 and am trying to get on the road to see the US of A. I have been on a boat for the last 13 years and now want to land travel. Gotta sell the boat first to get my van/camper or what ever I choose. That is how I found you I was looking at the Van Conversions. Any ways again thanks for putting out a great site, I will follow your travels.
~Barbara
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Barbara, thank you so much for watching my videos and reading my blog! Best of luck with your travels and please keep in touch and let me know how it goes!
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