Summit Lake, Corral Meadow and Bench Lake Loop

From Corral Meadow Trail at Summit Lake South Campground, this loop descends the 1.7-mile trail to Corral Meadow, then circles through Kings Creek, the Pacific Crest Trail and Bench Lake corridors before returning to the same campground junction. The mapped loop is about 10.1 miles with roughly 1,900 feet of climbing; allow around 5–5.5 hours. Starting at North day-use parking adds a half-mile walk each way, for about 11 miles total.

The route crosses Corral Meadow and reaches Bench Lake before returning through the Kings Creek trail network. The meadow can be ankle-deep during snowmelt, and several tributaries cross the trail. It is distinct from the shorter Kings Creek Falls hike, which starts at a separate highway trailhead.

Use Summit Lake North Day Use Parking and follow current signs to Corral Meadow Trail at the last loop of Summit Lake South. The approach is about half a mile each way; use marked campground roads and trails and stay off restored vegetation. Park information differs on which shore the connector follows, so follow posted directions. Picnic tables and a swimming area are at Summit Lake; drinking water and restrooms are seasonal, with no food service at the trailhead. Ordinary pets are not allowed on park hiking trails except service animals.