Bench Lakes Trail

The trail officially begins near the Redfish Lake Lodge. You can park at the main Redfish Lake Lodge parking area. For a shorter hike, consider taking the Redfish Lake boat shuttle across the lake, which drops you closer to the trailhead and significantly reduces the initial hiking distance.

The initial section of the trail, leading to the first and second Bench Lakes, is considered easy to moderate and is suitable for families or beginners accustomed to some hiking distance. It features a gradual elevation gain and well-maintained terrain. However, venturing beyond the second lake significantly increases the difficulty, requiring route-finding skills and off-trail hiking.

The best time to hike the trail is typically from late spring through early fall. During this period, wildflowers are abundant, creating vibrant displays, and the weather is generally favorable. Snow can persist at higher elevations into early summer, and conditions can change rapidly in the fall.

Yes, dogs are generally allowed on the trail. However, it's crucial to keep them on a leash to protect wildlife and ensure a pleasant experience for all hikers. Always practice Leave No Trace principles, including packing out all pet waste.

While there isn't a specific permit required for day hiking the Bench Lakes Trail itself, and no entrance fee for the Sawtooth National Recreation Area, standard wilderness regulations apply. If you plan to camp overnight in the backcountry, you will need a free wilderness permit, which can be obtained at trailheads or ranger stations.

The initial path to the first two Bench Lakes is relatively straightforward with a gradual ascent through forests and open meadows. You'll cross Fishhook Creek via a footbridge. Beyond the second lake, the terrain becomes much more challenging, with unmaintained herd paths, blowdown, overgrowth, and steep, rocky climbs as you venture off-trail to the higher lakes.

The trail passes through diverse habitats, offering opportunities to spot wildlife such as elk and deer. During the appropriate season, the meadows and forest edges are blanketed with a variety of wildflowers, creating a picturesque landscape of yellow, purple, and orange hues.

Yes, the route also passes through sections of the Redfish Creek - Baron Creek Trail and the Grand Mogul Trail.

The primary attractions are the chain of five pristine alpine lakes themselves, each offering unique views. The second Bench Lake is particularly celebrated for its spectacular reflections of Mount Heyburn. You'll also get continuous views of the jagged Sawtooth Mountains and occasional glimpses of Redfish Lake.

The full route to all five lakes and back is approximately 15.5 kilometers (9.6 miles) and typically takes around 4 hours and 50 minutes to complete. If you only hike to the second Bench Lake, it's about an 8-mile round trip with roughly 1,250 feet of elevation gain, which is a shorter duration.

For a less strenuous experience, consider taking the boat shuttle across Redfish Lake to shorten the overall hiking distance. This allows you to focus on the beautiful scenery of the lakes without the added mileage. Also, if you're looking for a moderate day hike, plan to turn around after reaching the second Bench Lake, as the trail becomes significantly more challenging beyond that point.