Benton - FS 1701-517

This is a gravel-based forest road that is mostly hard-packed and smooth and transitions to dirt near the end. Once you hit the dirt sections, there are a couple of mud holes/puddles and a section where you will encounter ruts up to a foot deep in the mud. As you gradually climb this trail, you are gifted with stunning views of Mount Rainier and the peaks near Packwood, and there are several dispersed campsites with views of Mount Rainier. The trail becomes very narrow at the end, with a large climb up a hill before dead-ending. There is a tree down across the trail near the top. Cell phone service was weak on the trail, and there are no amenities, so travel with all needed supplies. You are over an hour from the nearest services and supplies while on this trail. Any vehicle type should be able to traverse this trail.