High Sierra Topix

I am doing the Benson Lake Loop, going in Aug 17 and I have a permit good for 5 nights. I have done this loop twice, once in the late 70's, and once about 8 years ago. I hiked the loop counter-clockwise both times, and this time I plan on going clockwise. My plan is to stay at Crown Lake, then Upper Matterhorn Canyon, and Rodgers Lake on my third night. I stayed at Smedberg both previous trips, and thought I would check out Rodgers this time around. Any opinions on that? Finally, I am trying to decide where to stay between Rodgers and Peeler, where I plan on spending my last night. I would like to skip Benson, last time I was there is was kind of heavily used and lots of "evidence" of stock. I didn't find it that appealing. So, anyone have any good campsite recommendations past Benson? I am going solo, so don't need lots of space, but would like to be near water. Also, I promised my wife I would stay on trail as much as possible, as I will be traveling alone, but I think I wouldn't feel guilty to travel off the trail for short distances to find a good spot for the night, if necessary.

There are lots of tarns up by Seavey Pass....if want to make that climb late in the day. Or some smaller lakes just west of Benson might be an option

I've stayed in Kerrick Meadows when doing that loop in the past. Does that fit in logistically with your plans? I know it's a dry year, but I would think there would be water flowing through the stream that runs through the meadow. I like the openness of the place. Just a thought. It may be to close to your final destination of Peeler lake, though.

I have it on good authority that Arndt Lake is quite nice, and only slightly off trail. Other than that, I've also found the idea of camping in Kerrick Meadow quite attractive. I also enjoy the expansive views and lonely attitude of that place.

I've stayed at one of the ponds at Seavy Pass (38.03913, -119.52586). Very picturesque. I also stopped for lunch at Arndt Lake. I would like to go back to Arndt to do more exploring. As neil d said, it is only slightly off-trail.

I'm doing the same loop but the opposite direction leaving a day earlier. Going solo I also promised my wife to stay on trail as much as I can. We should cross paths. I agree with the others Arndt and Seavy Pass tarns are great. Schmedburg Lake offers plenty of spots especially away from the trail. Exploring Surprise and Talulla Lakes looks very inviting. Yet Rogers Lake is real nice and not that much further. Pick your view in upper Matterhorn Canyon and Sawtooth areas. See you out there. -Ken

Dang, I just did this loop in July and am only just now seeing this thread. I hope the OP camps at Rodgers, I think it beats Smedberg hands down. For future readers, I agree with the tarns in Seavey Pass area for some good campsites.

Kerrick Meadow had plenty of water (as did pretty much everywhere on this loop) during my trip 7/18-24.