The Benson Lake Loop

Smedberg Lake seen in a weak alpin-glow. Sister Lake is out there somewhere beyond mid-picture

Smedberg Lake

The Benson Lake Loop, August 2002

Smedberg Lake was a typical large Sierra lake, somewhat shallow, aproned by rock and dotted by trees or small groves along the banks in places. Near where the trail began its climb out of the bowl of the lake I found several adequate camps, but decided to head northwest along the shore towards the outlet. This walk had me on smooth shallow polished granite that plunged into the lake, all of which was a part of a small hill to my left as I walked. The granite ended and a large grassy area began that held very larger trees and a fairly good campsite. I downed my pack and had a sit in my chair to finish lunch and watch the pleasant scenery over the lake.

The view from the outlet of Smedburg Lake looking towards Benson Lake, which is way down there at the bottom of the canyon in the distance. The peak seen here is un-named, but I call it "Benson Peak".

It would have been ideal except of the stiff cold unending wind blowing over the lake. I took a walk to keep warm and explore the outlet. It was a very interesting area, mostly flat, cut by multiple deep stream channels of the outlet. The outlet was mostly bone dry except for the occasional pool. The far side of the outlet featured a small wood that sheltered a large semi-level packer campsite. The best part was a walk to the brink of the outlet stream that allowed for an outstanding view of multiple small peaks down the canyon towards Benson Lake. The cascade going down the canyon must have been an outstanding sight early season.

I could see some of the far off features around Hetch-Hetchy, such as Rancheria Ridge. Volunteer Peak loomed to my left, inviting a climb, and indeed I did climb up a ways to an even better vantage-point above the deep canyon below me.