So excited to share our super fun excursion to the top of Mt. Lassen! Now I know it’s January and you’re probably wondering why there’s no snow in these photos and the reason is we did this hike back in September of 2023. I know, I know…I’m just now getting to share these, but when you’re a Wedding and Portrait photographer, client galleries come first! 

We started out for Lassen National Park with the full intention of just driving through the park, eating a picnic lunch with our kids, and stopping by several scenic spots along the way. Everything was going as planned until we stopped at the parking lot at the trailhead to the top of the mountain. Matt and I looked at each other after reading all the signs and I just knew what he was thinking…We were going to the top! We packed up our snacks and as much water as we could carry and set out. 

That first few switchbacks were brutal and the kids soon after started looking at us like we were crazy. But we pressed on! If you’ve never hiked to Lassen Peak before, it’s roughly a 4-5 hour hike. It’s pretty strenuous, especially if you’re out of shape like I am. There were several moments when the kids wanted to give up and turn around, but as we kept pushing them forward I was reminded of the verse “but he that shall endure to the end, the same shall be saved” (Matthew 24:13) That hike was a perfect example of life. It can be such a struggle and oftentimes we want to just give up and quit, but if we did we would never have experienced the beauty and awe of being on top of that mountain! 

Headshots on top of the mountain

The view at the top is absolutely breathtaking! We took a moment to recoup and just take it all in. We did it! Then, of course, since I’m a photographer, I brought out my camera, that hiked all the way up with us, and started snapping away. Then it occurred to me how cool it would be to have some headshots of me done at the top! It was pretty windy but fun getting these portraits done. The trek back down the mountain was a whole lot easier than going up. Once back in the car, we asked the kids if it was worth it making it all the way to the top. They all agreed that it was but that they probably wouldn’t want to do it again. Haha! 

I’m so glad we decided to make the hike on a whim and so proud of our kids for “enduring to the end”! I’m also thankful for the life lessons that I learned that day. It really brought things into perspective and will be a day we’ll never forget! 

P.S. If you’re thinking about doing the hike, here’s some great information for you: CLICK HERE!

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Jen Peterson is a family photographer based in Redding, California. She enjoys traveling all over Northern California capturing families year after year. Follow her on Instagram!