The Benson Lake Loop

Evening falls on Smedberg Lake and the alpine-glow makes the rocks turn gold. This is looking east.

Smedberg Lake Alpine-Glow

The Benson Lake Loop, August 2002

If I had unfolded my map a bit more and seen what was a stones throw away, I would have taken the short walk to Surprise Lake. Another missed opportunity.

Volunteer Peak, and as you can see, a ridge of the peak goes all the way to Smedberg Lake. My camp was in the trees on the right.

Eventually I made back to my pack and began to set up camp. There were few spots that were really truly level, but I made do and found a good spot that dealt with the wind properly. Basically I spent a cold windy evening reading and eating. When I grew tired of the wind I finally turned in and called it a day.