Colorful wildflowers and grasses decorate this vast, open meadow, where you’ll see mule deer grazing along the meandering Kings Creek.
The Upper Meadow is a large field of lush grasses through which Kings Creek winds. Framing the meadow are the snowy caps of mountains and dense thickets of narrow fir trees. Admire the range of wildflowers in bloom in late spring and summer in this idyllic spot in Lassen Volcanic National Park.
Go on a leisurely stroll with your family along the banks of Kings Creek and appreciate the natural beauty around you. A great range of plants grow here, from lupines and fawn lilies to skunk cabbages. Note that the stream eventually runs into the Lower Meadow.
Take photos of snow-topped Lassen Peak that rises above the hills in the northwestern part of the meadow. Lay down a blanket beside the stream and enjoy a picnic in these serene surroundings. You may wish to rest your feet in the cold water after a long walk.
Trek through the stunning natural terrain, starting at the Kings Creek Falls Trailhead. The popular trail is a 2.3-mile (3.7-kilometer) round trip. Wander into the forest of Californian red firs and spot mule deer and Clark’s nutcracker birds. Reach the powerful Kings Creek Falls, where water rushes down stacked layers of rock edged by ferns. You’ll be treated to a stunning panorama from the nearby Upper Cascades Viewpoint.
It is thought the meadow formed after a vast lake dried up many thousands of years ago. In winter the meadow and Kings Creek Falls Trail are buried beneath thick layers of snow. Look at the way tree trunks have been curved from snow pressures in years past.
The Volcanic Legacy Scenic Byway wraps around the Upper Meadow in the southeastern part of Lassen Volcanic National Park. Drive north from the town of Mill Creek for 22 miles (35 kilometers) to arrive in about 40 minutes. Park the car in the lot for the Kings Creek Trailhead. Visit some of the nearby attractions, such as Lassen Peak, Bumpass Mountain and Lake Helen.
Note that this section of the highway through the park closes in winter, limiting access to Upper Meadow and Kings Creek Falls.
