Checkers is a serious game.

Jim and I stayed here in 2005 on a trip with his parents and sister. We loved the giant checker set and played them too. This time it was a serious competition with Ali. She won!

Hiking = Dessert

Delicious apple crisp with vanilla ice cream at the Lassen Mineral Lodge.

Hiking down the mountain

Less complaining than in the way up!

This section is part of the caldera of an older volcano. There is a lot of geothermal activity and it smells like sulphur.

Snowball fight!

It’s hard to resist even a small patch of snow. This is a theme on the Maule Family adventures!

Family Selfie

The top of the mountain

We made it to the top and were treated to an incredible view of the lake. It must have filled the hole left when the volcano erupted. We were also treated to chocolate chip cookies (thanks snack shack)!

Ridge Lakes

A 2 mile round trip with over 1000 feet elevation gain. We pretty much scaled a mountain!

We did NOT take the sign with us!

Sulphur Works, Lassen NP

Hydrothermal activity creates this bubbling mud pot. The steam acts like a sauna!

Lassen Volcanic National Park

Ice cream in the shadow of the volcano.

Lake Almanor, CA

A great spot for a picnic. It’s a lovely reservoir and there was a picnic table and a beach. Everything we need!

It was fun to watch the storm from a safe distance. We think it’s Lassen Peak we n the distance.

Donner Party

We tried to stop at the Donner Camp site, but it was closed due to “Tree Hazard”. This was the site of the Donner Family Camp site. It was a few miles from the lakes and the rest of the party. Disappointing as we wanted to explore the memorial and park. Next time? Not sure when we will be this way again...

We did not miss the irony- Donner Camp Picnic Area?!?!

Welcome to California!