The tire repair and oil change had set me back so arrival at Lassen Volcanic National Park loomed late in the day. Furthermore, the primary and more dramatic park entrance had closed the night before due to heavy snow fall. Luckily I was able to get to the north entrance before closing … but only just before closing.
Things had been slow; bad weather had kept visitors away. On my arrival, the wonderful Park Service staff practically reopened the Visitor Center for me. They turned on the video system to show me the Lassen Park overview film. They walked me personally through their displays and picture gallery. They reopened the register to sell me a DVD. It may just have been that they were hungry to see a guest but they were very helpful to me. In just 30 minutes I had learned a great deal about Lassen NP!
Within the Visitors Center, the most interesting gallery contained the work of a photographer named B.F. Loomis who documented the last eruption cycle of these volcanoes back in 1914 and 1915. On display were many of his pictures, the equipment he used, and many artifacts from the period. His work was an important contributor to the successful campaign to make Lassen a National Park. As a photographer I especially enjoyed his pictures; the one above is his second plate from the first eruption.
At this point I was feeling pretty pleased. I had arrived it before closing despite the obstacles and I still had hours of sunlight during which to enjoy the park. As I drove … late day sun … clingy clouds … horizontal light … transfixed trying to get just the right picture.
From what I could tell of the topographical maps and park descriptions, the most exotic and impressive parts of the park had not been available to me. The greatest volcanic activity, the most dramatic formation, the eeriest sites are all located at the higher elevations to the south. They’re all accessible from the main entrance which had closed the day before I arrived.
Once again I’m reminded that I take chances by traveling off season.
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