Bench and Snow Lakes — Friday, Sep. 20, 2002

Mount Rainier Area > SE - Cayuse Pass/Stevens Canyon

This is an easy hike to two small lakes in a basin. A good hike for small children or adults that are not quite up to some of the more severe hikes in the park. The trail starts in low brush and forest, but quickly opens up into meadows and old burn. The meadows are full of color as the berry bushes are turning to oranges and reds. There are two major ups-and-downs although the book claims there are three. The first lake is Bench lake and is stuffed into the brush. There is little shore space for lunching and relaxing. Go to Snow Lake! After a steep short hike, you will be rewarded with plenty of shore space and terrain to roam through and get some peace and quiet. Yes, there are prettier lakes at Mt Rainier, but these are easy to get to. Have fun!