Darwin Bench Loop

Dogs No Dogs

Features Lake · River/Creek · Swimming · Views · Wildflowers · Wildlife

The Darwin Bench Loop starts and ends at North Lake, climbing over Lamarck Col, into the bench and, traveling cross-country, exits through the Keyhole and reconnects with trail at Paiute Pass. Only for the experienced Sierra Nevada or cross country traveller. This trail passes by not one, not two, not three, but at least seventeen high alpine lakes. A great all-day run and scramble or an overnight backpack.

This route is rugged, partially cross-country, and not recommended except for the most experienced of mountain travelers. John Muir Wilderness permits are required for overnight trips.

The Darwin Bench Loop is a challenging cross-country route through the Sierra Nevada above Bishop, California. After the first few miles there are no signs. The trail itself disappears entirely at points. Some class III scrambling is likely required. Do not attempt this route without proper tools for navigation and experience appropriate for this type of travel. If you attempt and complete this route, you'll be rewarded with some of the Sierra Nevada's best, and you'll likely have it all to yourself.

BETA (clockwise):
-- Park in the day-use parking area. Hike up the road into North Lake Campground.
-- Take the Lamarck Lakes trail from the North Lake Campground. Pass Lower and Upper Lamarck Lakes. (This is a seldom maintained trail and, above treeline, becomes sparse. Use your GPX track. Side quest points for summiting Mount Lamarck).
-- Eventually, descend the west side of the Col into the Darwin Bench.
-- Descend toward the rich, mineral-blue colored lake at the back of the Darwin Bench. On your way there, find a use trail that heads down valley (if you reached the lake, you missed the use trail, but not to worry, just head down-valley, due northwest).
-- Stay on this use trail until the valley begins to open up to the west. Stay high and leave the use trail. Travel cross country to the north. (The use trail continues toward the JMT and the Evolution Valley).
-- Continue cross country through the granite-clad basin. Put plainly, it is spectacular. Rejoice.
-- Travel north toward the upper lake and the back of the basin. A steep boulder field comprises the amphitheater bordering this lake. The tallest point on the northern horizon is Mount Muriel. On its western saddle is Alpine Col. The more eastern saddle is the Keyhole. If you choose the Keyhole, style points by finding and going through the actual keyhole. Unlock untold treasures.
-- Crest your chosen saddle and descend. Enjoy unrivaled views of Mount Humphreys and the Desolation Plateau.
-- Find your way down to the main trail that cuts over Paiute Pass and descend back to your car.