Hike to Bench Lakes

This hike is great for anyone wanting to experience a scenic trail and peaceful alpine lakes. The five Bench Lakes are a chain of lakes draining from Mt. Heyburn. Park in the dirt parking lot across from the Fishhook Creek Trailhead near Redfish Lake. Shortly after the start of the trail you will reach the first fork. Take the trail to the left towards Bench Lakes and follow it across a small creek bridge and up onto the ridge on the western side of Redfish Lake. You will walk about two-thirds of the length of the lake before coming to the next fork. Take the path to the right and walk just about a mile to the first Bench Lake (away from Redfish Lake). You may stop here, but I recommend continuing at least the short distance to the second Bench Lake. You can get there by following the path to the left side of the first lake. The third, fourth, and fifth lakes are higher and require hiking off-trail, but if you are up to the task they are beautifully settled in high alpine bowls.

Head back the way you came or follow the ridge trail the rest of the way across Redfish Lake and take the boat shuttle back to the lodge (near where the trailhead is). See redfishlake.com for shuttle times and pricing.