The Ultimate Road Trip: Top Places to See When Driving From Bend, Oregon to Susanville, California

If you're looking for a road trip that will take your breath away, look no further than the drive from Bend, Oregon to Susanville, California. With stunning natural landscapes, charming small towns, and fascinating historical sites, this journey through the Pacific Northwest and Northern California has something for everyone. Whether you're planning a weekend getaway or a longer adventure, here are our top picks for the best places to stop along the way.

Crater Lake National Park

As you head south from Bend on Highway 97, your first must-see destination is Crater Lake National Park. This stunning natural wonder features the deepest lake in the United States, a brilliant blue expanse of water surrounded by towering cliffs. Visit the Rim Village Visitor Center to learn about the history and geology of Crater Lake, and then take in the breathtaking views from one of the park's many hiking trails. Don't miss the chance to take a dip in the refreshing waters of Wizard Island, a volcanic cinder cone that rises up from the middle of the lake.

Lassen Volcanic National Park

Continuing south on Highway 97 and then onto Highway 139, you'll cross the California border and enter Lassen Volcanic National Park. This incredible destination offers a landscape like no other, with hot springs, fumaroles, mud pots, and other geothermal features that showcase the power of the Earth's activity just below the surface. Take a hike to Bumpass Hell, a large hydrothermal area that's both awe-inspiring and slightly eerie. Drive the scenic Lassen Volcanic Highway, which takes you through the park's main attractions, including Sulphur Works, a geothermal site that remains active to this day.

Burney Falls State Park

As you make your way west on Highway 44, you'll find Burney Falls State Park, a hidden gem that's worth a visit. Known as "the eighth wonder of the world," these breathtaking waterfalls drop 129 feet into a misty pool below. Take a hike along the Falls Loop Trail to get different perspectives of the falls and the surrounding wilderness. Look out for black bears, deer, and other wildlife that call this area home.

McArthur-Burney Falls Memorial State Park

Just a short drive from Burney Falls State Park, you'll find McArthur-Burney Falls Memorial State Park. This is another incredible spot to witness the beauty of Northern California's natural landscapes. In addition to the 129-foot waterfall, you'll find hiking trails that wind through scenic meadows and forests. Camping is available on site, so consider spending a night or two under the stars.

Lava Beds National Monument

As you head south on Highway 139 and then onto Highway 299, you'll come to Lava Beds National Monument, a fascinating destination that displays the results of volcanic activity that occurred thousands of years ago. Here you'll find a vast network of lava tubes, caves, and other geologic wonders that are open for exploration. Take one of the self-guided tours to learn about the history and geology of the area.

Conclusion

This road trip from Bend, Oregon to Susanville, California is a journey through some of the most beautiful and captivating landscapes in the Pacific Northwest and Northern California. From the stunning beauty of Crater Lake and Lassen Volcanic National Parks, to the unique geologic features of Lava Beds National Monument, to the awe-inspiring beauty of Burney Falls and McArthur-Burney Falls Memorial State Park, there's something for everyone along this route. So pack up the car and hit the road for an adventure you'll never forget.