A cinder cone is another type of volcano formed by accumulated fragments of cinders or scoria, gas-charged lava that's thrown into the air during an eruption. The scoria cools in flight and falls to form the steep conical structure.

Lava flows from a cinder cone typically come from a breach at the base or a vent on its flank. The cinder cone at Lassen Park is encompassed by lava flows covered by iron-rich oxidized ash, creating a colorful display of what's known as the Painted Dunes.

If you haven't had the opportunity to hike up cinder cone, put it on your list! The hike up is like walking in sand, so the difficulty level is high. The bright side is that you'll have excellent views from the rim and the trip down is extremely easy and fun!