Sulphur Works ~ Lassen Volcanic National Park

The Sulphur Works is a famous roadside attraction in Lassen Volcanic National Park and it is very easy to access. In fact, all that a visitor needs to do is park the car and stroll down the sidewalk to see one of the most interesting geothermal areas in the entire west. The steep slope on both sides of the road is riddled with fissures that emit billowing clouds of volcanic gases. Mineral deposits, calcites and pure sulphur accumulations have painted this geothermal area with bright colors over time, which creates quite a contrast with the green colors of the alpine forest. The sounds of hissing steam and boiling sulphur mud along with the rotten egg aroma certainly do create a unique sensory effect like no other. The overwhelming sensory experience can cause a visitor to gaze upon this strange landscape for a lengthy time, so it pays to not be in a hurry when checking out the Sulphur Works.

All the while the thought of standing on a volcano constantly crosses the mind while watching the steam clouds rise at the colorful Sulphur Works geothermal area. Mt Lassen is indeed an active Cascade Range volcano and it is the largest volcanic dome in the world. Mount St Helens is also in the Cascade Range and the devastating eruption that recently occurred on that towering peak is a good reminder of just how unpredictable these ancient volcanoes can be. Just the thought of this is enough to stress some visitors out, while for others, doing a tour of Mt Lassen will be the thrill of a lifetime!