Yes to the above. Permits can be had from an office just barely south of Bridgeport. Benson Lake Loop is a classic for a reason. I’d typically drive to bridgeport from the bay area (~7 hours) and stay in an inexpensive trailer that was available at one of the motels. I’d have a great meal at the Bridgeport Inn and kick back. Early next morning, I’d drive to Twin Lakes–it takes about twenty minutes– park, and head up. (as an aside, the views of the Sierra from Bridgeport rival those of the Tetons.) I’d take an easy day in to Crown Lake, usually. Then on from there. Depending on the year, the only minor obstacle may be the snow field extending down from an unnamed lake/tarn a mile out from Crown. I never carried microspikes or an axe and even in bad years had no problem, but it is a bit steep. But with suncups that support your steps going up.
A really beautiful loop!
Otherwise, out of Tuolumne, over Donohue Pass to the Triple Divide cut off, on to Triple Divide and then down to Merced Lake and back up to Donohue. Or variations of the above (that is, take the easier alternate route down from the backpackers camp at Donohue to Merced Lake, but on the same day continue south to a sweet secluded camp spot two miles beyond.; then back up to Sunrise camp and then out. the alternate route is quite spectacular!)
In a heavy snow year, both routes are easy in terms of stream crossings.
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