Bench and Snow Lake Trail

The Bench and Snow Lake Trail offers a scenic excursion in the Paradise area of Mount Rainier National Park, leading hikers to two distinct subalpine lakes. Starting from Stevens Canyon Road, the trail immediately enters a forest before opening up to reveal meadows filled with subalpine wildflowers in summer and ripe huckleberries in autumn. The route features a rolling topography of moderate ups and downs, traversing a series of low, forested ridges rather than a continuous climb. At approximately 0.75 miles, a short, steep spur trail branches off to the left, descending to the marshy shores of Bench Lake. Named for the flat bench shelf it occupies, this lake provides one of the most iconic views in the park, where the massive snow-covered peak of Mount Rainier is reflected in the still waters on clear, calm days. Returning to the main path, the trail continues another 0.5 miles, climbing through talus slopes and subalpine meadows before dropping down to the edge of Snow Lake. Nestled in a deep, rocky cirque at the base of Unicorn Peak—the highest point in the Tatoosh Range—Snow Lake is a deep-blue alpine gem that often remains ice-covered well into July. A small backcountry camp is located near the lake shore, making it a popular destination for both day hikers and overnight backpackers.