Some services restored to Lassen Park despite government shutdown
Lassen Volcanic National Park announced Jan. 11 that the recently closed areas of the park would again be accessible to visitors starting Jan. 12.
The reopening comes with excitement from local residents and travelers alike, but also comes with limitations to services. Limited services are being restored by using revenue generated by recreation fees.
Visitors of the park should visit the park’s website at nps.gov/lavo while planning their visit to get the latest information on accessibility and available services.
Areas recently closed, but now open include Highway 89 from Highway 36 to the Kohm Yah-Mah-Nee Visitor Center and from Highway 44 to the Loomis Ranger Station and all trails in the park currently covered in snow and are accessible via snowshoes or skis.
For the winter season, the southwest campground is open. All other campgrounds, roads to Butte Lake, Warner Valley and Juniper Lake will remain closed.
The National Park Service officials have determined that by using Federal Land and Recreation Enhancement funds, the park can immediately bring back park maintenance crews to plow roads and provide limited visitor services.
Outdoor areas of the park will remain accessible, but all facilities will remain closed.
The park’s superintendent Jim Richardson shared his thanks; “We greatly appreciate the generous contributions of Cal Trans for providing plowing services during the lapse in appropriations. Their efforts have contributed significantly to our ability to restore access and basic services to Lassen Volcanic National Park.”
Services such as visitor centers, ranger talks and snowshoe walks are unavailable during the lapse in appropriations and park officials say hikers, snowshoers, and skiers coming to the park must have appropriate training and gear for traveling in an avalanche-prone mountain environment, as well as the ability to self-rescue.
Even with law enforcement rangers patrolling the park, rescue services will be extremely limited.
Park officials warn visitors to the park to be prepared for winter weather road conditions and to check the most recent weather forecast, dress in layers and carry food and water. They also warn potential visitors to keep a shovel, blankets, extra food and water, as well as tire chains in your vehicle in case snow and ice delay your travel.
