The Benson Lake Loop

Looking down Matterhorn Canyon. Hard to believe the trail is down there somewhere, hardly more than a deer track in places. This place, as beautiful as it is, must be a garden early season, with a rushing stream for added effect. A very nice view I would say.

Middle Matterhorn Canyon

The Benson Lake Loop, August 2002

The trail was now a narrow path among the small scattered rocks, erratics and low yellow late season grass. I passed the first trees on my left and came on a rocky dike that defined this first glacial step and dammed the shallow lake that must have existed behind it long ago. The trail passed a few rock outcroppings with nice easy access to the top for excellent vantagepoints for down canyon views. This was literally a stroll in the park.

Looking back became an entertainment itself as the jagged peaks crowned the top end of the canyon. I often found myself stopping to look up at the canyon head and then back down the canyon, their beauty competing for my attention.

The trail and view up canyon from the good camp at about mid-canyon. Finger Peaks are on the left, with Sawtooth in the center. The peaks are white, the rocks are white, and even the gruss and sand are white.

I took my time and also took every opportunity to stop and see the sights. Still, before long, I came to the first camp about half way down canyon (at about 9230 feet) with good to fair large tree shaded sites and good access to water. It was located above the obvious huge meadow area down canyon, and at a point in the canyon that afforded good views both up and down canyon. It was obvious it got a fair amount of use, probably mostly from people going the other direction. It would be a good place to stay before doing the passes. I stopped and unloaded for a spell to fill my water bottles and sit and have something to eat. It was a pleasant spot, with water and trees, clear skies and warm temperatures to keep me company.