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Difficulty: ⭐⭐
Scenery: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Mileage: 2.5 mi
Region: Mount Rainier NP
Elev. Gain: 479 ft
When to Go: Jul—Sep
Avg. Time: 1.5 hr
Parking: Small paved lot
Type: Out + Back
Pass: America the Beautiful or $30
Know Before You Go:
- A great place for wildflower peeping in the early summer season. 
- Don't let the short mileage fool you; some portions of this trail are quite steep and there are uphill sections both directions so save energy for the hike out. 
- The views at Bench Lake (cover photo) are only accessible during drier parts of the year - we would suggest skipping this offshoot all together when water levels are high and you can't walk past the tree line. 
- When arriving at Snow Lake, make sure to follow signs for Snow Lake Camp for the best views. 
- There is a pit toilet at the campsite if you need. 
- The lake is an excellent spot for SUPing and swimming. 
- Late afternoon light here is the best for photos. 


 
          
        
               
          
        
               
          
        
               
          
        
               
          
        
              