Nature's Canvas Unveiled: A Rain-Kissed Journey on Bench and Snow Lakes Trail

WashingtonMount RainierNational Park

Snow Lake Snow Lake

Last Saturday, we embarked on a picturesque late afternoon hike along the Bench and Snow Lakes Trail in the enchanting Mount Rainier National Park. Nestled in the lap of nature, this easy 2.2-mile trail promised a delightful journey through the fall-kissed landscape. With cloudy skies overhead and the crisp air of early fall, we set out, eager to witness the beauty that awaited us.

Trail View Trail View

Easy Trails, Abundant Beauty

Unicorn Peak Unicorn Peak

The trail, marked as easy in difficulty, unfolded like a hidden gem waiting to be discovered. As we meandered through the path, the fall colors painted a breathtaking picture around us. The trees, adorned in shades of gold and rust, created a vibrant pathway that beckoned us deeper into the heart of nature.

Mushroom Mushroom

Clouds and Rain

Bench Lake Bench Lake

As the afternoon progressed, clouds gathered overhead, casting a gentle shadow on our journey. The cool breeze carried the promise of rain, and, true to its nature, the sky opened up as we began our return journey. The raindrops, a refreshing dance on the leaves, added a touch of magic to our adventure.

Trail View Trail View

Stunning Snow Lake

Snow Lake Snow Lake

One of the highlights of our hike was the breathtaking Snow Lake. Nestled amidst the trees, the lake presented a captivating sight. The water, with its mesmerizing turquoise hue, reflected the surrounding landscape like a mirror. It was a moment frozen in time, a snapshot of nature's artistry that left us in awe.

Nature's Color Palette

Trail View Trail View

The fall colors reached their peak, creating an artist's palette that seemed to blend seamlessly with the rain-kissed surroundings. Every step revealed a new splash of color, a testament to the ever-changing canvas that nature effortlessly paints.

A Symphony of Raindrops

Pine Needles Pine Needles

On our way back, as the rain intensified, it became a melody to our footsteps. The rhythmic pitter-patter on leaves and the soft murmur of raindrops created a soothing harmony that enveloped us in a sense of tranquility. The rain, far from dampening our spirits, added a unique charm to our late afternoon escapade.

Conclusion

Unicorn Peak Unicorn Peak

Our late afternoon hike on the Bench and Snow Lakes Trail was nothing short of a visual feast. The rain, rather than being a hindrance, became a companion, enhancing the beauty of the fall colors and adding a poetic touch to our journey. Snow Lake, with its turquoise waters, stood as a testament to the wonders that nature unveils when least expected.

Overlook Overlook

As we concluded our hike, rain-soaked yet rejuvenated, we couldn't help but marvel at the positive energy that nature exudes. Every raindrop, every hue of fall, and the stunning beauty of Snow Lake contributed to a memorable experience, reminding us that even in the midst of clouds, there's an undeniable radiance in the heart of Mount Rainier National Park.

Length: 2.2 (miles)
Difficulty: easy
Date of the hike: 2023-10-14