The Benson Lake Loop

I have long wanted to visit Benson Lake (seen below), and at long last, I would have my wish.

Benson Lake Ahead

The Benson Lake Loop, August 2002

The air temperature began to noticeably rise on this 2000-foot plunge to the Benson Lake canyon bottom, and as the trail seemed to wander aimlessly on, I began to wonder if I would ever reach the forests of Benson Lake. At one point I was treated to a partial view of Benson Lake from a bare knoll near the trail, but from there the trail fell down away from the lake in a confusion of switchbacks and twists that drew me away from my goal for the day. At long last the trail grudgingly gave up its downward trend in a sputtering rolling debauchment into deep forest. Another seeming lengthily walk finally brought me to the Piute Creek and another unnamed creek crossing, dry for me at this time of the year. I saw two of the rare human species at the creek, who seemed busy soaking blistered feet.

The route/canyon of the PCT leaving the Benson Lake basin to the north-west. To the left among many peaks is Piute Mountain.

The trail junction was finally reached and I turned left towards the promised beaches of Benson Lake. After another impatient too long seeming walk (though it was actually a short walk), I finally reached the beach-front property of Benson Lake, the Benson Riveria.