One of only 42 All-American Roads in the United States, the Volcanic Legacy Scenic Byway takes you through 500 miles of breathtaking scenery, geological wonders, and outdoor adventure. Stretching from Southern Oregon into California, the byway winds through a stunning landscape shaped by ancient volcanic activity. After a quick stop at Eagles Market & Gas for fuel and road trip essentials, you’ll be ready for a journey filled with crystal-clear lakes, rugged lava flows, towering mountain peaks, and plenty of opportunities to explore nature up close.
3 Days on the Volcanic Legacy Scenic Byway
Day 1: Eagle Point to Crater Lake National Park
From Eagles Market, head east on Highway 62 toward Crater Lake National Park. This leg of the trip takes about 1.5 hours but deserves multiple stops along the way, including Lost Creek Lake, an excellent spot for fishing, kayaking, and a peaceful picnic. A little further up the highway, Union Creek is famous for its towering Douglas firs and the historic Beckie’s Cafe, where a slice of their legendary homemade pie is a must. Just beyond Union Creek is Rogue River Gorge, with an easy, scenic walk along a powerful stretch of the river as it carves through ancient lava flows.
As you approach Crater Lake, prepare to be amazed by the deepest lake in the U.S., which has brilliant blue waters unlike anything else in the country. The 33-mile Rim Drive offers spectacular views from every angle with must-see stops like Watchman Overlook and Cloudcap Overlook. If you’re up for a short hike, the Garfield Peak Trail provides sweeping panoramic views of the caldera.
After a full day of exploring, stay overnight at Crater Lake Lodge or set up camp at Mazama Campground under a canopy of towering pine trees.
Day 2: Crater Lake to Lava Beds National Monument
Continuing on the Volcanic Legacy Byway, head south toward Klamath Falls, a great place for birdwatching along the Klamath Basin National Wildlife Refuge. From there, cross into California to Lava Beds National Monument, a stark and otherworldly landscape filled with more than 700 lava tubes. These underground caves were created by ancient lava flows and offer a fascinating and eerie adventure. Be sure to check out Skull Cave with its year-round ice floor, and Golden Dome Cave, known for its shimmering bacteria-covered walls.
For those interested in history, the area is also home to significant sites from the Modoc War of 1872-73, where the Modoc people made a final stand against the U.S. Army in the rugged lava beds.
Set up camp at Indian Well Campground, or head to Weed, California, for a motel stay.
Day 3: Lassen Volcanic National Park and Beyond
The final stretch of the Volcanic Legacy Scenic Byway leads to Lassen Volcanic National Park, one of California’s lesser-known gems. The park is an active volcanic region with steam vents, boiling mud pots, and sulfur springs. A short walk leads to Bumpass Hell, where a boardwalk overlooks hydrothermal features reminiscent of Yellowstone. For ambitious hikers, a trek to the top of Lassen Peak rewards you with sweeping views of the Cascade Range.
End your journey at Manzanita Lake, a perfect spot to watch the sunset reflect off the surrounding peaks. Extend your adventure at Manzanita Lake Campground, or drive to Redding, California, to find motels.
Discover the Region’s Volcanic Landscapes with Eagles Market & Gas
The Volcanic Legacy Scenic Byway highlights some of the most dramatic landscapes in the Pacific Northwest and northern California. Before you set out to experience the geological forces that shaped the area, stop at Eagles Market & Gas for everything you’ll need on the road. With premium fuel for your vehicle, beverages, snacks, and on-the-go essentials, Eagles Market has you covered.