Beginning from the southwest entrance of Lassen National Park, Lake Helen Trail follows the park road, with some cross-country trek, as it winds through a thin forest of pines, open meadows, and past active geothermal areas. The trail is surrounded with several picturesque views of high peaks and valleys within the park and beyond. Lake Helen sits at the heart of the park and named after the first woman to climb Lassen Peak, a once active volcano that stands 10,457 feet high. The trail is a moderate grade from beginning to end. The park road is generally open to vehicles in April when plowing begins; check with the park for opening and closing dates as they are dependent on snowfall. Some areas are avalanche prone, again, check with the park for the most current conditions.