First View of Bumpass Hell © 2013 Bo Mackison
Bumpass Hell is a geothermal area that spans 16 acres in Lassen Volcanic National Park. It has various hot springs, fumaroles, and mud pots accessible by a 3 mile trail. What a sight, once the thermals are in sight.
Thermals © 2013 Bo Mackison
The area is named after Kendall Bumpass, a cowboy who lived in the Lassen area in the 1860s. One day Bumpass stumbled upon the area and he was injured when one of his legs broke through the thin thermal crust. He told his friends and townspeople about it, describing it as “hell.”
The Reward at the End of Bumpass Hell Trail © 2013 Bo Mackison
Wandering in Bumpass Hell © 2013 Bo Mackison
Boardwalk through Bumpass Hell Thermals © 2013 Bo Mackison
Boardwalks wander through the thermal area, often with no side rails. it’s a bit daunting to realize that one misstep and the fall could result in severe injuries. But it does give one a clear view of the marvels of the thermals.
Kings Creek – Thermal Waters © 2013 Bo Mackison
The creek running south from the thermals is a milky white, carrying minerals and hot water.
Bumpass Hell Thermals © 2013 Bo Mackison
Walk on the Wild Side © 2013 Bo Mackison
Bumpass Hell © 2013 Bo Mackison
Green Vegetation in Bumpass Hell © 2013 Bo Mackison
Some of the areas near the thermals are cool enough to allow vegetation to grow close to the hot springs.
The descriptions were abbreviated because, not only are the National Parks closed during the budget battles, but the National Park websites are also down.
Instead of descriptions, just enjoy the photo travelogue of Bumpass Hell Thermal Area in Lassen Volcanic National Park in California.
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Bo Mackison is photographer, book-artist, collector of stories, naturalist, curator and owner of Seeded Earth Studio LLC. Enjoyed hiking the Bumpass Hell trail when I visited California in August.
About Bo Mackison
Looks fascinating – I’d love to see it.
Lassen is an amazing place, one I had never heard of either til we planned a trip out of Sacramento. But what a marvelous place of volcanoes and wilderness. So worth a visit.
That would be a fascinating place to see! I was unaware of it.
It’s an amazing place to visit. I was unaware of this hidden gem of a National Park, too, until we found it on the northern California map this summer!
Seems the word fascinating is the perfect word. It was the first word I thought as I was scrolling through the collection of photos. Seems like a great place to have an adventure. Nature is amazing.