From the top of the ridge, Dave and I peer into the next valley. We'll have to lose quite a bit of elevation to get down to Benson Lake. Smedberg lake sits at about 9200ft and we went up to reach this view point (9500ft). Benson Lake sits in that hole at 7600ft. After giving up 1900ft elevation, we'll have to gain it back to get over Seavey Pass at 9100ft. Today will be a very long walk.
While staying at Smedberg Lake, we heard a rock avalanche one afternoon. Perhaps it came off this decaying granite mass.
Dave stops to talk as we pass some other hikers. Even while on the popular PCT, we'd often walk for hours without seeing anyone.
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