We will hike 1.5 miles into Benson Lake to set up base camp. We will do day hikes the next two days. Beginner backpackers are welcome.
All regular backpack gear is needed, even though the backpack is very short. Benson Lake is at 5,200 ft. Expect overnight lows near freezing and daytime highs near 70. Bring a smaller day pack or use your backpack for the day hikes.
The itinerary is:
Fri, Sep 20: Drive to trailhead near Scott Lake and hike into Benson Lake (1.5 miles, 400 ft gain). There is an optional hike to Scott Mt from camp (5.4 miles RT, 900 ft gain). That evening we will watch the sun set while dining al fresco.
Sat, Sep 21: After a leisurely breakfast, we will hike out to the Four-in-One Cone trailhead by Scott Lake for a day hike up FIO Cone (12 miles RT, 1,900 ft gain, including the extra distance to camp). We return to camp for a swim or relaxation before dinner.
Sun, Sep 22: After breakfast we pack up camp, hike out to our cars, and drive a short distance east over McKenzie Pass to the Black Crater trailhead on Hwy 242 for a day hike (9.3 miles RT, 2,500 ft. gain). We drive back to Salem that afternoon, stopping in Sisters for refreshments.
Difficulty: Medium Hard because of the day hikes.
Driving distance: N/A miles RT.
Hiking distance: 3 miles RT plus day hikes.
Elevation gain: see above.
Qualifying Activity: Yes