Snag Lake is the largest lake in Lassen Volcanic National Park, located in the remote eastern section of the park at 6,050 feet elevation. This backcountry destination offers paddlers a true wilderness experience accessible only by hiking trail, making it ideal for multi-day kayaking and camping expeditions.

**Access and Approach** The lake is most commonly accessed via two trailheads: Butte Lake (approximately 3.5 miles) and Juniper Lake (roughly 6 miles). The Butte Lake approach traverses the Fantastic Lava Beds with sandy, cinder-covered trail sections that can be challenging with loaded boats. From Juniper Lake, the route passes through forested terrain. Water from nearby Horseshoe Lake feeds into Snag Lake via Grassy Creek, and water eventually flows underground through porous lava to Butte Lake.

**Paddling Character** Snag Lake features crystal-clear water and approximately five miles of shoreline surrounded by dramatic volcanic landscapes. True to its name, the shoreline includes submerged tree stumps and roots in places—a remnant of the ancient forest flooded when lava flows dammed the drainage. The lake offers numerous dispersed camping opportunities along its shores, making it excellent for base-camp kayaking with day trips to nearby lakes like Rainbow Lake and Jakey Lake.

**Conditions and Wildlife** Only non-motorized watercraft are permitted. The remote location means paddlers often have the lake entirely to themselves, creating exceptional solitude. Black bears are present in the area, and bear-resistant canisters are required for overnight trips from April through November. The lake contains no sport fish. Wind can pick up in afternoons, and smoke from regional wildfires occasionally impacts visibility during summer months. Plan for self-sufficiency—no services, potable water, or cell reception exist in this wilderness setting.