LASSEN PEAK

also called Mount Lassen, peak standing at the southern end of the Cascade Range in northern California, U.S., 50 miles (80 km) east of Redding. Lassen Peak is 10,457 feet (3,187 m) high. It erupted without warning on May 30, 1914, and larger explosions occurred on May 19, 1915, when hot lava spilled 1,000 feet (300 m) down the mountain, melting snow and causing mudflows. Three days later a blast of hot gases felled many trees. The eruptions ceased in 1921, but evidence has suggested the possibility of a 65-year cycle for volcanic activity in the area. Lassen Peak is the principal attraction of Lassen Volcanic National Park, which was created in 1916. Luis Argello, a Spanish officer, was the first European to sight the peak, in 1821. It is named for Peter Lassen, an explorer who guided settlers through the surrounding area.