Overview
The Black Cinder Rock Trail loops through some of the most visually striking volcanic terrain in Lassen National Forest, crossing lava flows that cooled roughly 30,000 years ago alongside the Hat Creek Rim. The trail is distinctive for its geological character: black basalt flows, red cinder fields, and scattered spatter cones punctuate an otherwise forested landscape.
At a lower elevation than the Caribou Wilderness trails, this route opens early in spring and stays accessible late into fall, making it a reliable option when higher trails are still snow-covered. The views of Lassen Peak to the south across the Hat Creek valley are excellent, particularly on clear mornings.
The Route
Trailhead to Cinder Fields (Mile 0 to 1.2)
From the Highway 44 pullout, the trail crosses a forested margin and enters the open lava field. The first section crosses young pahoehoe-style basalt with characteristic ropy surface textures. Interpretive markers explain the geological history of the Hat Creek Rim lava flows.
Cinder Loop Section (Mile 1.2 to 2.8)
The trail winds through the main cinder field, passing several low spatter cones and a section of red and black cinder unconsolidated enough to crunch underfoot. This is the most photogenic section of the route. Views of Lassen Peak are best from the open high points in this segment.
Forest Return (Mile 2.8 to 4.2)
The trail re-enters a ponderosa pine and manzanita forest for the return to the trailhead. This section is shaded and considerably cooler, with a mix of volcanic and decomposed granite soil underfoot.
When to Hike
May through June is excellent for this trail. The lower elevation means it opens 4 to 6 weeks earlier than the Caribou Wilderness routes. Wildflowers bloom in the forest margins in May.
July through August brings intense sun across the open lava fields. Start early and bring more water than you think you need. The black rock absorbs heat and the terrain can feel significantly hotter than the ambient air temperature.
October through November is a fine time to visit with much less heat and good visibility for views of Lassen Peak.
What to Bring
Many hikers carry 2 liters of water for this route. There is no water on the trail. Individual hydration needs are higher than usual here because the black lava fields radiate significant heat on sunny days.
Sun protection is critical: hat, sunscreen, and sunglasses. The open cinder sections offer no shade. Shoes with a stiff sole help on the sharp basalt sections.
Trailhead Access
The trailhead is a paved pullout directly on Highway 44 east of Old Station, accessible by any vehicle. The area is signed as "Black Cinder Rock" and is easy to locate on the USFS Lassen NF motor vehicle use map.
No permit is required (as of 2026). No restrooms at the trailhead.
Nearby
Hat Creek, running immediately west of the trailhead, is one of California's premier wild trout streams. The Domingo Springs Trail follows the North Fork Feather River corridor and is within an hour's drive south.
The Caribou Lake Trail provides a good contrast for a two-day itinerary in the area. Check current conditions before your trip at Checking Conditions Before You Go. Follow Leave No Trace 7 Principles, particularly avoiding trampling cryptobiotic soil crusts on the cinder fields.