Benny's Trail

Benny’s Trail in Mission is short, steep, and way tougher than the distance suggests. This 2.1 km point-to-point grind climbs about 473 m up to around 633 m, linking hikers to the Mount Saint Benedict paragliding area. It’s rated extreme for a reason: expect a leg-burner, loose rock, and a sustained climb that feels more like a workout than a wander.

The route starts on a forest service road, then ducks under power lines and into more overgrown singletrack before climbing again on another rough road toward the paragliding launch. Views open up as you gain height, with big clearings near the top where paragliders stage and launch on good days. The official end of Benny’s Trail is just shy of the actual launch; a small side path to the left leads the last few metres if you want the full experience and wider valley views.

Recent hikers report the lower singletrack is more pleasant than staying on the FSR, but it’s not well marked, so download the route before you go. Expect steep grades, loose sections, and overgrowth in spots; poles and solid footwear help a lot, especially in dry, dusty conditions. On hot days, bugs can be relentless, and there’s been fresh bear sign, so bring spray, make noise, and don’t hike it half-asleep. Benny’s Trail is hikeable year-round, but rain makes it slick and slow, and summer heat plus exposure under the power lines can be draining, so start early and treat this “short” Mission trail with respect.