Naches Peak Loop
2 days ago
Fall colors are spectacular
16 this month · 117 reports
Bench and Snow Lakes
Mount Rainier Area
updated 2 days ago
The Bench and Snow Lakes trail remains in good condition, with no snow reported on the trail as of September 23. The road access is suitable for all vehicles, and bugs have not been a significant issue for most recent visitors. Hikers describe the trail as having short but steep ups and downs, with roots and rocks present, making trekking poles recommended for some. Bench Lake offers stunning views of Mount Rainier, while Snow Lake provides a beautiful turquoise color and views of Unicorn Peak. Parking can be challenging, especially later in the day, with overflow parking along the road sometimes leading to warnings or tickets.
Generated from 31 trip reports. Trails change faster than reports do, so check anything you’d turn around for.
What hikers ask about Bench and Snow Lakes
Generated from the most recent trip reports, newest 2 days ago. Check anything you’d turn around for.
The road to the trailhead is reported as paved and suitable for all vehicles. There have been no reports of any issues with road access in the recent reports, with the last mention being on September 23.
The trail is generally in good condition, but includes steep sections with roots and rocks. Trekking poles are recommended by some hikers due to these obstacles.
Parking is often challenging, with the lot filling up and overflow parking along the road becoming necessary. Some visitors have received warnings or tickets for improper parking. The trail itself can be busy, especially during peak times.
Bugs have generally not been a significant problem for most visitors. Wildlife sightings have included pikas, marmots, chipmunks, and grouse.
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Trail notes generated from recent reports. Conditions change fast.
Sources
Fresh2 days ago
Mount Rainier Area > SE - Cayuse Pass/Stevens Canyon
What a glorious autumn in the park! Somehow, though I've hiked every trail (I think) in the Paradise area, I've missed Bench and Snow Lakes. Finally, rectified.Yes, it is an up and down trail; but in ...
Recent3 weeks ago
Mount Rainier Area > SE - Cayuse Pass/Stevens Canyon
The last day of August delivered exactly what we could have hoped for, a beautiful 75° day in the mountains, with blue skies, warm sunshine, and that unmistakable feeling that summer is beginning to s...
Recent3 weeks ago
Mount Rainier Area > SE - Cayuse Pass/Stevens Canyon
Checked out both Bench Lake and Snow Lake (incl the camping area), and continued a short bit on the climber's trail up to where the trail skirts below a pika-infested talus field.Road Conditions.Paved...
Older1 month ago
Mount Rainier Area > SE - Cayuse Pass/Stevens Canyon
This was a somewhat moderate hike that felt longer than it actually was, but with rewarding views of both Bench Lake, Snow Lake, and Mount Rainier. The trail itself had a lot of uphill climbing made m...
Older1 month ago
Mount Rainier Area > SE - Cayuse Pass/Stevens Canyon
This is an out-and-back hike, 2.6 miles total, 414 ft of total ascent. Would classify this as moderate due to some parts of the trail having high steps and tree roots that could cause ankle injuries. ...
Older1 month ago
Mount Rainier Area > SE - Cayuse Pass/Stevens Canyon
What a beautiful trail the whole way, and in both directions!! Felt like this little trail had it all. Don't skip Bench Lake like I almost did! From above, it looked less exciting than Snow, but it ha...
Older1 month ago
Mount Rainier Area > SE - Cayuse Pass/Stevens Canyon
It was a beautiful hike in the mountain lakes at Mount rainier with awesome views. Difficulty was moderate
Older1 month ago
Mount Rainier Area > SE - Cayuse Pass/Stevens Canyon
Due to the trail wash out causing some scrambling on rocks, I would say this is a moderate trail. Saw lots of kiddos. Some really enjoyed it! Some thought it was a little challenging. This is trail is...
Older2 months ago
Mount Rainier Area > SE - Cayuse Pass/Stevens Canyon
We had a great hike to Bench& Snow Lakes. It was a busy at Mt Rainier National Park on this sunny Monday. Cars were parked inbothdirections on the roads shoulder (up to 1/4 mile) when we pulled up at ...
Older2 months ago
Mount Rainier Area > SE - Cayuse Pass/Stevens Canyon
Bottom Line:Short, easy trail to two subalpine lakes with tremendous views of Mt Rainier, crystal clear water, sandy beaches and an island, as well as scrambling opportunities up the headwall. Perfect...