Bench & Snow Lake Trail

This short out-and-back near Longmire packs a surprising amount of scenery into just over two miles of walking. The trail winds through old-growth forest thick with Douglas fir and western red cedar before opening up to the shores of Snow Lake, a subalpine gem tucked into a glacially carved basin. The path is well-maintained but not flat — expect some moderate ups and downs as you navigate between the two lakes, with Bench Lake serving as a quieter appetizer before the main course. The forest canopy keeps things cool and shaded for most of the route, which makes this a solid pick on warmer days when the higher elevation trails are baking. The payoff at Snow Lake is a classic Cascades postcard — still water reflecting whatever Rainier decides to show you that day. Perfect for hikers who want a taste of Rainier's backcountry without committing to a full-day death march.