Bench and Snow Lakes
Discover the serene beauty of Bench and Snow Lakes, offering vibrant blue waters and stunning mountain reflections in Mount Rainier National Park.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Beat the crowds and heat
Bench and Snow Lakes
Best Time
Beat the crowds and heat
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover the serene beauty of Bench and Snow Lakes, offering vibrant blue waters and stunning mountain reflections in Mount Rainier National Park.
"This trail was a bliss with great lake views towards the end."
🎯 Arrive Early for Parking
The parking lot fills up fast! Aim to arrive by 10 AM on weekends to secure a spot.
💧 Dip Your Feet (or More!)
The water is icy cold but incredibly clear and refreshing on a warm day. Pack a swimsuit if you dare!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Snow Lake's Emerald Waters
Bench and Snow Lakes Trail
A stunning alpine lake with incredibly blue, clear water, offering rewarding views after a moderate hike.
Bench Lake Reflections
Bench and Snow Lakes Trail
The first of the two lakes, offering beautiful reflections and a chance to spot wildlife like bears.
Unicorn Peak Views
Beyond Bench Lake
Glimpse Unicorn Peak, the highest peak in the Tatoosh Range, adding to the dramatic mountain scenery.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything for Bench and Snow Lakes
Park Entry and Pet Policies
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Arrive Early for Parking
The parking lot fills up fast! Aim to arrive by 10 AM on weekends to secure a spot.
💧 Dip Your Feet (or More!)
The water is icy cold but incredibly clear and refreshing on a warm day. Pack a swimsuit if you dare!
🚫 No Pets Allowed
Leave your furry friends at home; dogs are not permitted on the Bench and Snow Lakes trail.
🦟 Mosquito Repellent is Key
Don't underestimate the mosquitoes, especially around the lakes. Bring strong repellent!
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Arrive Early for Parking
The parking lot fills up fast! Aim to arrive by 10 AM on weekends to secure a spot.
💧 Dip Your Feet (or More!)
The water is icy cold but incredibly clear and refreshing on a warm day. Pack a swimsuit if you dare!
🚫 No Pets Allowed
Leave your furry friends at home; dogs are not permitted on the Bench and Snow Lakes trail.
🦟 Mosquito Repellent is Key
Don't underestimate the mosquitoes, especially around the lakes. Bring strong repellent!
🎟️ Park Pass Required
Ensure you have a valid Mount Rainier National Park pass for entry.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the stunning beauty of Bench and Snow Lakes, with Snow Lake's vibrant blue waters and reflections being a particular highlight. The moderate hike is considered well worth the effort for the rewarding views. While some found the trail crowded, others appreciated the peacefulness and the chance to dip their feet in the chilly, clear water. A few noted the presence of mosquitoes and the need for early arrival to secure parking.
"An amazing lake. It looked emerald color the day we visited.
We also saw a male bear by Bench lake, on way to Snow lake.
The water was chilly and very clear. Excellent to dip your feet and relax on a warm summer day."
Shruti Sinha
"This was one of the best hikes I've ever been on. I would say it's "moderate" as there is quite a bit of going up - but the trail is BEAUTIFUL with awesome views of the valley, mountains, streams, and the incredibly BLUE Snow Lake."
Janet Malsam
"This trail was a bliss with great lake views towards the end. We went down on a rainy day so the views were eclipsed by all the clouds."
yeti Y (yeti)
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Bench and Snow Lakes Trailhead is located in the Paradise area of Mount Rainier National Park. Access is typically via the scenic Paradise Road. Be aware that Paradise and Sunrise corridors may require timed entry reservations during peak season. 
Yes, there is a parking lot at the trailhead. However, it is small and can fill up quickly, especially on weekends. Arriving early is highly recommended.
Access to Mount Rainier National Park in winter can be challenging due to snow. Roads may be closed, and vehicle chains are often required. Rental car companies may prohibit their use. Shuttles for tourists to local hiking trails are not commonly available in winter.
During the summer months (June-September), the roads to the trailhead are generally well-maintained. However, always check the park's official website for current road conditions and potential closures before your visit.
Public transportation options directly to the Bench and Snow Lakes Trailhead are limited. Most visitors drive their own vehicles or rent cars.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, a park pass is required for entry into Mount Rainier National Park. You can purchase passes at the park entrance stations or in advance online.
Timed entry reservations are typically for the Paradise and Sunrise corridors of Mount Rainier National Park, not specifically for individual trails like Bench and Snow Lakes. Check the park's official website for the most up-to-date information on timed entry requirements.
Mount Rainier National Park is generally open year-round, but access to certain areas and roads can be restricted due to snow and weather conditions, especially outside of the summer season.
Yes, overnight camping is an option near the Bench and Snow Lakes trail. This allows for a more immersive experience, but requires proper planning and permits.
The entrance fee for Mount Rainier National Park is typically per vehicle. Check the National Park Service website for the most current fee structure.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The Bench and Snow Lakes Trail is generally considered moderate. It's a 2.2-mile out-and-back hike with around 450 feet of elevation gain, making it accessible for many hikers.
While hiking, keep an eye out for wildlife. Visitors have reported seeing bears near Bench Lake. Always maintain a safe distance and never feed wild animals.
Restroom facilities are typically available at the trailhead parking area in the Paradise section of the park.
Wear comfortable hiking shoes and dress in layers, as mountain weather can change rapidly. Bring rain gear, even on a sunny day.
The trail can get crowded, especially during peak summer weekends. Visiting early in the morning or on a weekday can help you avoid the largest crowds.
📸 📸 Photography
Both lakes offer stunning photo opportunities. Snow Lake is particularly known for its vibrant blue color and reflections. Bench Lake also provides beautiful reflections and is a good spot for wildlife viewing.
Early morning light can be magical for capturing reflections on the lakes. Sunset can also offer beautiful colors, but be mindful of returning before dark.
Drone usage is restricted in Mount Rainier National Park. Check the park's official regulations regarding drone operation before flying.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive mountain and lake scenery. A telephoto lens can be useful for wildlife spotting. Don't forget a polarizing filter to enhance lake colors and reduce glare.
The shores of both Bench and Snow Lakes offer excellent vantage points. For broader views of Mount Rainier and surrounding peaks, consider viewpoints along the Sunrise Road, like Sunrise Point.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Tips for families:
* Pack snacks and plenty of water. The elevation gain can be tiring for little legs.
* Bring insect repellent. Mosquitoes can be a nuisance.
* Consider a quick dip in the lake if the weather is warm, but be prepared for the cold!
* Arrive early to secure parking and avoid the busiest times.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
+3Photography tips:
* Golden Hour: Aim for early morning or late afternoon for the best light and fewer crowds.
* Reflections: Bring a polarizing filter to enhance the colors of the lake and sky, and to manage glare.
* Wildlife: Keep your telephoto lens handy for potential sightings of bears or other local fauna. Remember to maintain a safe distance.
* Composition: Experiment with different angles to capture the scale of the mountains and the tranquility of the lakes.
🚶♀️ Solo Hikers & Peace Seekers
Tips for solo hikers:
* Go on a weekday or very early on a weekend morning to minimize encounters with other hikers.
* Inform someone of your hiking plans and expected return time.
* Be aware of your surroundings and carry bear spray for safety.
* Embrace the quiet moments and enjoy the stunning natural beauty.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Bench and Snow Lakes Trail Experience
+2The hike begins with a gradual ascent, and after about 0.7 miles, you'll reach Bench Lake. This lake is often praised for its serene atmosphere and potential for wildlife sightings, including bears.
+1Many visitors find the effort well worth the reward, describing the views as incredibly beautiful and the lakes as relaxing. The trail is well-maintained, though it can become quite busy, especially during peak season.
Best Times to Visit and Weather Considerations
+1 However, even during these months, mountain weather can be unpredictable. Visitors should be prepared for rapidly changing conditions, including rain, fog, and even snow, especially at higher elevations. To avoid the largest crowds and secure parking, it's highly recommended to visit early in the morning, particularly on weekends.
While summer offers the most accessible conditions, some visitors appreciate the unique beauty of the area even in less-than-ideal weather. For instance, fog and mist can create a dramatic and memorable atmosphere.
Always check the official Mount Rainier National Park website for current weather forecasts, road conditions, and any alerts before your trip. Wildlife and Safety on the Trail
Beyond wildlife, be aware of the potential for mosquitoes, especially around the lakes during warmer months. Bringing effective insect repellent is a must to ensure a more comfortable hiking experience.
The water in the lakes is icy cold, even in summer, but some brave souls enjoy a quick dip to cool off. Always practice Leave No Trace principles: pack out everything you pack in, stay on marked trails, and respect the natural environment. Inform someone of your hiking plans and estimated return time.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit