Trail Grade/Condition
Gradual elevation gain with short, steep sections.  Well maintained, though may be muddy until early to mid June.  Snow on trail may persist into late spring.  Downed trees can impede travel in winter and spring.

Recreational Opportunities
Excellent trail for those seeking more privacy and spectacular scenery with few extreme elevation changes. (Receives much less use than Resurrection Pass Trails due to lack of recreation cabins.  This trail is very busy on the weekends due to mountain bikers.) Excellent family outing for those who can hike longer distances on level terrain.  Day hiking from north: five miles up and back along Bench Creek.  Good winter ski tours from south end to Johnson Pass except during extreme avalanche hazard.  Good skiing also from north trailhead to Bench Creek (Mile 4).

During the steep first half of trail, you will pass through hemlock forests and wetter areas with alder and willow.  As trail levels out, vegetation changes to the sub-alpine with lower growing shrubs and multitude of wildflowers.
 

This level terrain offers good camping sites and excellent
Vistas.  From north end: trail winds through open meadows and forest.  At Mile 4 by Bench Creek bridge, trail enters V-shaped Bench Creek valley which continues to Bench Lake (Mile 9.3) in alpine tundra.  From this point one can extend hike into most any direction.  Potential campsites at the pass (backpacking stove recommended above timberline) and a designated site at south end of Johnson Lake.  South of Johnson Lake enter wooded are until shoreline of Upper Trail Lake is reached at Mile 19.

Wildlife includes moose, black and brown bears, and Dall sheep.  Hunting for moose, bear and sheep in designated seasons.  Fishing is good for Grayling in Bench Lake and for rainbow trout in Johnson Lake.  Review Alaska Department of Fish and Game hunting and fishing regulations.

Special Considerations
Winter travel is unsafe and not recommended between Bench Creek and Johnson Pass due to Potential avalanche danger.  Winter storms and whiteouts are frequent above treeline.

Be prepared for rapid weather changes.  Use caution with bear and moose.  Boil surface water for 5 minutes before drinking. Remember to pack out your trash.  You can contact a U.S. Forest Service office to receive more detailed information on safety precautions.