It was cold at night. After much planning and anticipation, my boyfriend, Mason, and I flew out to LA and spent 10 days in the beautiful Eastern Sierra. Explore Rae Lakes & 60 Lakes Basin The John Muir Trail is one of the most classic trails in the world and what better way to experience it than with “The Best Outfitter On Earth!” On this classic week long backpacking trip we’ll navigate the accessible Rae Lakes Loop … - I left Dollar Lake after dinner for Arrowhead Lake. The Rae Lakes Loop is one of the most popular hikes in Sequoia and Kings Canyon, if not in the entire Sierra. Rae Lakes Loop. Please review the stock use regulations and check the grazing dates if you are planning a stock trip to this area. We could’ve finished it but would’ve had to drive the 5 hrs home at night so we decided to stay at the last camping area and hike the last 4 miles the following morning before we headed out. Our Rae Lakes Loop travels high into the Rae Lakes district of Kings Canyon National Park and features a myriad of stunning mountain lakes as well as some of the largest vertical relief in the Sierra. wasn’t a fan of the camp sites at upper raes lake, I think alot of people might stay at middle raes lake, but it was totally fine, i just like rivers and the sound of water at night) we only saw 2 men early in the morning and no one else. Once you get to the climax at this point you NO LONGER have ANY significant uphills from THIS POINT ONWARDS!! What are the first-hand conditions in respect to the fires and smoke? 47050 Generals Highway (Long day) we camped just past the suspension bridge. Kings Canyon National Park charges a fee to enter. A medium incline right from the start but then levels out The lake is beautiful plus there is a glacier and a small waterfall. Try it free. As I was taking out a banana and a granola bar, two fellow hikers approached me. The loop is 41.4 miles long, and climbs from 5035' (1535m) at the trailhead to 11,978' (3651m) at Glen Pass. The other 5 are Walk-up permits. Rae Lakes Loops is one of those multi-day trails you dream to hike, but never really do. Score: 72.86% Views: 2299. This is a classic 50 mile backpacking loop in Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Park. Out & Back to Dollar Lake 9/28-10/1. AllTrails app pro absolutely is worthless. Wilderness Permits required, reserve-able up to two weeks in advance as well as walk up first come – first serve availability. While I was not pleased to keep it on while hiking, as I was sure I was disturbing the wild life along the trail, the fear of being attacked by a bear or mountain lion convinced me to operate this man-made device in the wildlife for the next hour. A picturesque granite spire leads you to the lakes. Activity level 5 Starting from. I was so stressed out that I cut my left thumb two times in like 5 minutes with my Leatherman Skeletool CX Multi-Tool knife while trying to chop an APPLE. (See temporary closure). Stunning lake basins, rushing waterfalls, and splendidly carved canyons envelop your being for the three to six days necessary to complete the circuit in Kings Canyon National Park. We left and drove all the way to Fresno where we got a hotel and prepared to do this hike. Along the way we’ll tackle the JMT’s famous Glen Pass (11,978’) and camp in the Rae Lakes Basin beneath the Painted Lady and Fin Dome. That seemed like a climax to our hike. Glens pass was rough but not horrible. As you get closer towards 11,000 ft you begin to see a pocket of 7-8 hidden alpine lakes. Please find the application here: He moved on after a few seconds without me making any noise or anything! Cedar Grove Pack Station - Facebook. The loop goes through Paradise Valley along the Woods Creek Trail and intersects the PCT which you can take southward to Rae Lakes. Rae Lakes Loop walk-up permits are self-issued and are free of charge in the off season. The hike starts at roads end in Kings Canyon. Wilderness Permits. Four of my closest friends and I recently (September 2017) spent 4 days and 4 nights in Kings Canyon National Park. The trail is primarily used for hiking, camping, and backpacking and is best used from June until October. Rae Lakes Loop is a 46 mile hike through Sequoia and Kings Canyon NP and considered one of the most popular hikes in the Sierras. Think topaz-blue lakes and dew-kissed wildflower meadows, all cradled by John Muir’s beloved "Range of Light." a Ranger) that came by helicopter to Rae Lakes we didn't see anybody till Day 4 31 July – 3 August 2016. There are dozens of switchbacks with mini granite mesa reprieves. Bullfrog Lake, east of the trail between Vidette Meadow and Glen Pass, is closed to all camping, grazing and stock travel. The trail features a lot of wooded areas & then higher altitude meadow clearings with similar golden/ruby aspens & conifers; however as you ascend, more granite stairs & out-croppings become a pattern. It was a colder night here! 2 at an average of 14 miles a day. But we were prepared to settle for … The map at the trailhead has different mileage from the road signs in the trail many times. +/- 8,400 feet of elevation with a starting elevation of 5,050 feet and a peak elevation of 12,000 feet. Length – 2-4 nights. I had never hiked in the Sierra. Lots of switchbacks. Book the Rae Lakes Loop Backpacking Tour for a magical backcountry camping and hiking adventure in Kings Canyon National Park, in the beautiful Sierra Nevada. Second day we hiked about 8-9 miles where we camped at upper raes lake. Also the campsite has one bear box to share. We started hiking clockwise Friday morning around 8:00 and did 16 miles. Did the loop Friday-Monday. This hike has been on my ever-growing to-do list, since I ever started one. If you are conditioned for the run and for the altitude, you can run most of … It was so cool! $1,749 for non-members. I have done it in both directions, and my thought is that the clockwise loop is easier for running. If you are entering on foot or bike the fee is $20 per person. Our watches clocked us at hiking 21 hrs including stops. Rae Lakes Loop via Road's End Trail (counter-clockwise) - GPX FILE DOWNLOAD. On this classic week long backpacking trip we’ll navigate the accessible Rae Lakes Loop through the wilderness of King’s Canyon National Park. And as you see all the beauty may your mind be moved to worship the Creator of this all, God. Again, there are some beautiful people out there, who made my solo hike even more memorable. This is, and I think will always be, my favorite part of this route. - As I was warned, there were numerous switch-backs on that 2.1-mile section of the loop. Surrounded by towering granite it truely a real masterpiece of our Creator God! High water at stream crossings can be a problem in May and early June. Rae Lakes Loop. The trail can be difficult to follow at times but if you’re headed uphill always look to the left. After a two-mile level hike along the South Fork of the Kings River, the trail ascends 1,600 feet to beautiful Paradise Valley. Last Fall, I got the chance to hike the whole loop as my first multi-day trek. - I left Arrowhead Lake at 7:00 am. 40.4mi Sep 5, 2019 Renée Hagen. Notes: The Rae Lakes region is considered by many as one of the most beautiful spots within the Sierra. Wish I could of stayed in Rae Lakes for a week. Created: Apr 13, 2013 royanderson. When I got to the junction it was 10:20 pm. Weather was perfect and the smoke got less the higher we got. On day 4 we saw our first hikers! This trek can be planned as a 3 day hike unless you are experienced enough to hike up to 20 miles a day with a backpack. A few pictures from a July 2012 hike in King's Canyon National Park. Bubbs creek had an amazing camp site we wanted to stay at but knew we needed to push further so we had less miles the next morning. Its ease of access from the Bay Area and LA, the gradual start to the trail, and the stunning scenery - including a few miles on the John Muir Trail - … I first noticed him. Incredible scenery, rugged terrain, and alpine lakes. Downhill but not all easy hiking. You'll have access to the water (creek along the trail and lakes close to campgrounds). Wilderness permits for the Rae Lakes Loop are issued at the Roads End station, 5.5 miles beyond Cedar Grove. Eventually I pulled myself together and resumed hiking. Rock Scramble descending in Rae Lakes. Day I: Its ease of access from the Bay Area and LA, the gradual start to the trail, and the stunning scenery - including a few miles on the John Muir Trail - … This initial part of hike consists of belts of forests & clearings that had golden grass & interspersed conifers with amber & ruby colored aspen trees. I’d experienced such encounters before in the Great Smoky Mountains, Shenandoah, and Big Bend NPS. The Rae Lakes Trail is a 41.4-mile (66.6 km) loop trail head, and is just a few miles away from Cedar Grove, California. We left mid morning and went over the pass. I’m wondering the same thing as the previous poster. Leisure hike into Rae Lakes Loop 20mi Aug 31, 2020 Mike H. Aug 25, 2020 Brian Cummiskey. Three Rivers, CA The Rae Lakes Loop begins at Roads End in Kings Canyon. I hiked the Rae Lakes Loop in 2 days, 10/23 – 10/24. As of Thursday, smoke seemed to be held back at park entrance, then clear to east. Such an incredible trip! Kings Canyon Backpacking – Rae Lakes Loop Share this trip Facebook Pinterest Twitter. Great hike! High water at stream crossings can be a problem in May and early June. — INTRO: Rae Lakes Loop is the most quintessential CA scenic vista trail, & additionally brings you close & personal to flora & fauna unique to the area. The lakes are located on the John Muir Trail. Rae Lakes Loop. We saw people occasionally but felt like we mostly had the trail to ourselves. The first lake is Dollar lake and than Arrowhead and finally the Rae Lakes. - I was at Upper Paradise Valley by noon. Our backpacking trip was broken into 5 days & was completed October 4th 2020 thru October 8th 2020. The Rae Lakes Loop is one of the most popular hikes in Sequoia and Kings Canyon, if not in the entire Sierra. Rae Lakes Loop is a 46 mile hike through Sequoia and Kings Canyon NP and considered one of the most popular hikes in the Sierras. We debated whether we’d go the opposite way next time, and I don’t think there’s a right answer. Rae Lakes loop is a scenic Sierra multiday loop and truly a backpacking trip that has it all. ( there was a bit of snow in some spots) September 10th 2020). The first 2.2 miles were along the river which is flanked by huge granite hillsides. Just finished this hike with my husband (sep28th) Amazing! Wilderness permits for the Rae Lakes Loop are issued at the Roads End station, 5.5 miles beyond Cedar Grove. I also use it as charge reservoir and a source of noise to warn those beautiful beasts out there that I won’t be an easy target! That view was so good to see clear blue skies. I’d brought one for just such a time as this. Towards the John Muir Trail junction there’s a prominent meadow & clearing around 5 miles. Hey fellow backpackers. The loop is 41.4 miles long, and climbs from 5035' (1535m) at the trailhead to 11,978' (3651m) at Glen Pass. Did the loop counterclockwise, so all 8,000 elevation gain was during the first two days. There is a two night camping limit at Kearsarge Lakes (east of Bullfrog). Departures Jul 2021-Aug 2022. The river crossing was easily doable. The ranger station at Rae Lakes is starting to be manned this week. Day 1 If I enjoyed the first 2 parts of our hikes on this loop, this part I was in awe. I even witnessed a marmot on the trail!! Views were quite smokey as we hiked out of the canyon but air quality didn't bother us. Camping at Charlotte Lake is limited to two nights. Day two we did 15 miles. No microspikes needed, just one trekking pole. The very first backpacking trip I ever did was the Rae Lakes Loop in Kings Canyon. You have to climb a few granite staircases to reach this above 10,000ft oasis but it is so worth it. Miraculously, they’d retrieved my coat and were carrying it, hoping to find the owner. My right knee T-band started to hurt so bad that I had to wear a knee sleeve. No microspikes needed, just one trekking pole. I tried to signal them, hoping we could finish the last 2 miles together. Let us help you take you there with our backpacking guide! I'm sure this is partly seasonal. Rae Lakes Loop Paradise view of The Sphinx. A short side-trip from Rae Lakes, however, leads hikers into a wonderland of alpine lakes and creeks scattered among low granite ridges. From the West Side, many of the visitors to Rae Lakes come from the loop trail that originates at Road's End in Kings Canyon National Park. Wilderness permits for the Rae Lakes Loop are issued at the Roads End station, 5.5 miles beyond Cedar Grove. The most common route for the Rae Lakes Loop is starting from Roads End in Kings Canyon. Avoid the next several days/weeks due to current fires (9/8/20). Happy to provide any more details if anyone is doing this loop coming up. The gate opened only hours before we left on our hike. 4th day we got up early and did 6 miles back to the car! The Rae Lakes Loop. — DAY 1 — Road’s End — Upper Paradise Valley — 10.25 miles completed — 10.25 miles total: This was the best backpacking trip I have ever done. Rae Lakes Loop Trailhead After a quick stop at Mist Falls I plodded slowly through a series of switchbacks before reaching Lower Paradise Valley. Select dates. Beautiful trail. Heeft iemand hier toevallig ervaring met de Rae Lakes Loop in Kings Canyon National Park? At Road’s End Trailhead, set off on the Rae Lakes Loop, renowned as one of the most beautiful backpacking routes in the Sierra. Very nice place to camp. There might have been a sixth bridge, but it was washed out. https://www.nps.gov/seki/planyourvisit/upload/NoYear-Wilderness-permit-app5-13-2020.pdf Lotsa water along the way. https://www.nps.gov/seki/planyourvisit/wilderness_permits.htm 2. I should have trained harder with more weight in my pack during training. Group Size 4–6. It essentially makes a big circle around the center of Kings Canyon National Park, and features four amazing canyons and one of the epic sections of the John Muir Trail (JMT). Last good water before Glen Pass is at junction with Kearsarge/Bullfrog Lake. We found a spot that was along the lake & offered views of the Painted Lady & Glen’s Pass. Crossed paths with a young bear on Cedar Grove Sand Flats. We had 4 people & 2 water filters between us (Water is extremely abundant on this trail, only about 5 miles total are away from a quick 3 min walk to the river MAX). Rae Lakes Trail is a 66.6 kilometer moderately trafficked loop trail located near Cedar Grove, California that features a lake and is rated as difficult. If you are planning to do this hike during the summer, it is wise to make reservations, as trail-head quotas often fill up. Available with an Apple Music subscription. 5 at an average of … Expect steal-your-breath scenery around basically every bend. I had a great time hiking this adventure with a buddy recently, but before I share more about the hike I want to make sure you know all the … Wilderness permits are required year-round for all overnight trips in Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks' wilderness. Some parts of the hike you can smell the smoke stronger but we didn’t have any problems and pics turned out pretty clear in most parts, Looks like it’s clearing up a lot. Stock is permitted on this trail, but grazing is restricted in certain areas. The suspension bridge is a blast & loads of fun to cross! The first 2.0 miles is an easy flat intro. We only had about 10 miles back to road's end and we covered that in a matter of about 5 hours. Plan to explore the 2½-long basin wandering cross-country from lake to … Length 41.4 miElevation gain 7844 ftRoute type Loop Very little snow going over Glen Pass. Rae Lakes Loop in Kings Canyon National Park Sierra Nevadas, California. The lakes are overlooked by a number of majestic peaks, Fin Dome, Dragon Peak, Painted Lady, and Diamond Peak. I informed them of my plan. Amazing trail but do not do right now due to fires in the area. I counted exactly 16 switch-backs and 5 bridges on the way to Paradise/Bubbs Jct. I considered it lost forever at that point; if I returned to find it, I would need to hike two more miles, something that I couldn’t afford to do. The Rae Lakes Loop is one of the most popular hikes in Sequoia and Kings Canyon, if not in the entire Sierra. Of this distance, only two miles involves the retracing of footsteps. "Thank you God!" In summary...if you haven't done this hike, DO IT. Has anyone completed this loop in the last week or two? Thanks, Great hike!! 2 days later, the pain from the hike was gone. These can be obtained from the drop boxes located outside the visitor’s centers. (Not really sure where we camped but there is plenty nice flat places along the creek which we found about 6 miles from the end of the trail. We got Glenn Pass after a snow storm and couldn't have been more beautiful. Bears have been very active along this trail, and were successful at getting food that was hung in trees. Of those, 20 slots may be reserved. This is one of the most popular entry points to access the Rae Lakes Loop, the JMT and the PCT. Rae Lakes Trail is a 41.4 mile moderately trafficked loop trail located near Cedar Grove, California that features a lake and is rated as difficult. Highly recommend! You can also purchase a park specific annual pass for $70. Met a team of 6 hikers of diverse age categories. Day 4 We did it in five days trekking over twelve miles the first day which kicked my butt due to the following reasons: 1. Day II: The loop covers 46 miles on well established trail, begins at an elevation of 5035 feet and peaks at an elevation of 11,978 at Glen Pass. According to the Modern Hiker, “the Rae Lakes loop trail actually consists of three separate but connecting trails that travel through the canyons, across lakes, and over alpine passes.” This 5-day route will offer you epic waterfalls, stunning valleys, beautiful mountains, and jaw-dropping lakes. We camped a total of three nights to complete Rae Lakes Loop. I arrived at Azalea Campground after a 6 hour drive from San Diego We only had 3 nights left so we knew we would have to push harder then planned. Pretty buggy out and used head nets for a few miles. The return loop follows Bubbs Creek back to Roads End for a 42 mile loop. We hike from Upper Paridise (7000ft) up to Upper Rae Lake (10500ft). we filtered water from the lake and it was good. Rae Lakes Loop is a fabulous run! Distance – 41.2 miles. This one was different. Heavy smoke in Kings Canyon, Paradise Valley had partial smoke on Wednesday, no smoke either day at lakes or Wood Creek. There was still smoke from the fires but not bad and didn’t effect us. I originally intended to do this hike with a meetup.com group in 2015, but life got in the way. They are open from May to mid-October. If you are planning to do this hike during the summer, it is wise to make reservations, as trailhead quotas often fill up. Dollar Lake is the first around 4.25 miles into the hike & from this point on you basically snake your way along little granite walkways that weave their way through a complex reflective water carved out high mountain valley. https://www.nps.gov/seki/planyourvisit/upload/NoYear-Wilderness-permit-app5-13-2020.pdf. - I began hiking at 6:00 am from Roads End Permit Station. Beginning our ascent of Glen’s Pass, we attempted to beat the heat. Answer 1 of 9: Hello all, My boyfriend and I are considering backpacking sometime near the end of September the Rae Lakes Loop. Explore the Rae Lakes on a gorgeous multi-day backpacking loop in Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Park. Fees are $35 per vehicle or $30 per motorcycle. The Rae Lakes Loop begins at Roads End in Kings Canyon. The Rae Lakes Loop is a hike and backpacking adventure in the western side of the Sierras in Kings Canyon National Park. Because this is such a popular hike, there are certain restrictions along this trail: Pets and wheeled vehicles are not allowed on any park trails. At Lower Rae Lake, I stopped briefly to fill my water reservoir and start the purification process with tablets. I have done it in both directions, and my thought is that the clockwise loop is easier for running. The water is very chilly & I opted no to bathing. Regardless of whether or not you reserve your permit ahead of time or get it the morning of-you must check-in at the ranger station prior to starting your 5-day loop. Deer become abundant & tributaries all join into reflective pools, marshes & lakes connected by golden reeds. It was a truly remarkable autumn sight! The uphill grade through Paradise Valley is entirely runnable, and the footing is very good. [October 27 -30, 2017] HIKE TO: RAE LAKES TRAIL: RAE LAKES LOOP MILES: 41.4 MILES TIME: 3.5 DAYS DATE I WENT: 10/27 – 10/30, 2017 DIFFICULTY: MODERATE BACKPACKING TRIP HIKE PERMIT: YES LOCATION: KINGS CANYON & SEQUOIA NATIONAL FOREST Rae Lakes Loops is one of those multi-day trails you dream to hike, but never really do. Rae Lakes Loop is a fabulous run! Trip Length 5 Days. The trail is primarily used for hiking, camping, nature trips, and backpacking and is best used from June until September. Camping in Paradise Valley is limited to two nights. Glen’s Pass can best be characterized by 3.5 miles of steep loose granite switchbacks. Immersed in everything the High Sierras have to offer, from sub-alpine ridges to meadows in the mountain, it’s an amazing experience. I know what some of you may be thinking – you follow my journey on Instagram and wonder how I’ve never done a multi-day hike before. However, coming from Tahoe I chose the shorter drive to the Onion Valley Trailhead on the east side of the Sierra. We left on Wed the 23rd of Sept. We didn't leave eary (the gate didn't open till 6:00am) and hit the trail about 11:00. Campsites were readily available all throughout the loop. The Rae Lakes Loop is one of the most popular hikes in Sequoia and Kings Canyon, if not in the entire Sierra. The hike gets its name from the Rae Lakes region which is the approximate midpoint of this hike. Saw another momma bear and cub, all the bears were chill and we were about 10 feet away from some of them! It was a bit windy but beautiful up there. I’m happy how it worked out, though, because I got to do the trip with Half Cookie! Once the trail splits we headed uphill TOWARDS Mist Falls. There, they would reunite with team members who had set up camp there for the night. Beautiful location. Nice to get the elevation done with sooner but also more strenuous for those 16 miles. The mileage was wrong, the altitude was wrong, people with the link to track me, couldn’t, I can understand the messages using cell service, however they should have been able to see my progress via GPS..... a complete waste of money. If you are planning to do this hike during the summer, it is wise to make reservations, as trailhead quotas often fill up. You head straight towards the Painted Lady Mtn & headed to her west. I brought everything imaginable making my pack WAY TOO HEAVY. There were 12 of us guys that went on the hike. $1,599 for REI Members. Outside the quota season (September 20, 2020 – May 28, 2021), Wilderness permits are free, self-issued, and are not limited to daily entry quotas.Self-issue wilderness permits are available at the nearest permit-issuing station.There is no fee for self-issue permits. Four of my closest friends and I recently (September 2017) spent 4 days and 4 nights in Kings Canyon National Park. Rae Lakes Loop begins at Roads End in Kings Canyon National Park. We prayed about it and God answered our prayers in an amazing way. Rae Lakes Loop. The daily quota of overnight campers permitted onto the Woods Creek Trail is 25. He turned his head and stirred at me with his glowing eyes. It was like, for the bear, so what?! Created: Apr 13, 2013 royanderson. Day one: 10 miles List of lakes in California; References This Fresno County, California-related article is a stub. Many years ago I camped here for a night, just to check out Kings Canyon National Park, and during that trip I’d decided that someday I wanted to hike the full loop. This is 43 miles on my watch. I set my PR for cycling on September 5 this year in 105 F weather; I rode from Rancho Bernardo, San Diego to San Clemente Pier, Orange Country and back, for a total of 110 miles. I pushed through on the PCT for another three and a half hours until I arrived in Dollar Lake at mile 19.7. After another encounter with a bear, this time an adult, on Route 180, I returned to the Azalea Campground at 1:10 am on Sunday 10/25. CCW Show 19 More Check-Ins Aug 4, 2020 Yu Chen Hou. If you are planning to do this hike during the summer, it is wise to make reservations, as trailhead quotas often fill up.Wilderness permits for the Rae Lakes Loop are issued at the Roads End station, 5.5 miles beyond Cedar Grove. You will need an update Wilderness Permit Application to visit this Park. And we left our dinner out for like 30 mins to go fish and a marmot eat through one of our bags. - By 11:30 am I was on my way to Charlotte Lake. https://www.myopencountry.com/rae-lakes-loop-hiking-trail-guide Our second day began at Upper Paradise Valley, here you would cross the river where the bridge used to stand, & follow the trail up a rolling hills, gently ascending elevation. Every effort is made to provide accurate and up to date information, but we cannot be responsible for errors or for changes that may have occurred since publication. (WARNING: attempting the loop counterclockwise, heading towards Sphinx Junction first, means a lot more uphill switchbacks for almost 20 miles!) 93271, Camping in Lower Paradise Valley is permitted only in designated campsites. The Rae Lakes Loop is one of the most popular hikes in Sequoia and Kings Canyon, if not in the entire Sierra. Camping at Rae Lakes is limited to one night per lake. — DAY 3 — Woods Creek — Upper Rae Lakes — 7.5 miles completed — 24 miles total: We hiked a total of 10.25 miles to reach upper paradise camping area which was next to a washed out bridge. We had been planning this trip for a long time. We completed 22 miles day 1 in order to stay at Rae Lakes, and it’s a relatively constant uphill. There are tons of logs & flat space to camp & spread your stuff out on. Rae Lakes Loop between Junction Meadow and Vidette Meadow. Below freezing as we had stuff frozen the next morning. There are scattered mini alpine lakes on the backside of the ‘’Painted Lady Mtn Range.’’ As you make quick work of the descent, Lake Charlotte comes into view below & you quickly switch back & follow the mountain line into a giant clearing to the east of Lake Charlotte. Third time’s the charm for us on the Rae Lakes Loop. No other campers out. Fishing was great although they aren't huge. Yes we had the whole woods to ourselves thanks to the park being closed. Created: Apr 13, 2013 royanderson. It was beautiful next to the river and there was bear boxes. My dogs, my dad and my 3.5 year old loved it she hike all of the way. At the top of the valley, hikers then cross the South Fork on a new bridge and climb steadily up Woods Creek. We even had the granite castle towers in the background cupping the valley vista to the east. Stay motivated & the views really help distract from the trail’s blatant disregard for human knees & ankles! Rae Lakes Loop Trailhead After a quick stop at Mist Falls I plodded slowly through a series of switchbacks before reaching Lower Paradise Valley. Day 2 We carried way more water than we needed) but it was not hot out. We had been planning on doing this hike for months and then with all the fires we had to change plans and went to Zion. We also saw a momma bear and her 2 cubs around mile 18! I left the parking lot at the Road’s End at 11:55 pm. Anyway, the knee sleeve really helped me to finish the hike. Day 3 Other than a person (I think they were bringing in We ended up camping at Upper Rae Lake where the bear boxes & views are plentiful. That is where the bridge is out but water is low. The uphill grade through Paradise Valley is entirely runnable, and the footing is very good. 7 Songs. Was wanting to go further but knew we wouldn’t make it over glens pass in time. The initial part of the hike leads you out of the sparse high elevation forest & into the narrows of the high valley. Probably one of the best trails in the Sierra's, in my opinion. Day 2 was a hard day we all agreed. 3. Did the loop counterclockwise, so all 8,000 elevation gain was during the first two days. The Rae Lakes Loop was by far the hardest backpacking trip (physically) that I have ever been on and it served as a reminder to how fragile my body is and how small and inconsequential I am as a human compared to that vast landscape. Soon enough we realized the trail snaked in between the lakes & begin to rise abruptly above Rae lakes through sections of switchbacks & exposed granite shelfs. Starting at Road's End on the left, we hiked about 45 miles on Rae Lakes Loop … Glen Pass may be impassable to hikers until mid-late July and even later for stock. We backpacked 41 miles along Rae Lakes Loop, and were absolutely blown away by the breathtaking views around every turn. Rae Lakes Loop - Kings Canyon National Park Within the rugged back country of majestic Kings Canyon National Park, lies a beautiful 46 mile hike popularly known as the Rae Lakes Loop. — DAY 2 — Upper Paradise Valley — Woods Creek — 6.25 miles completed — 16.5 miles total: At the top of the valley, hikers then cross the South Fork on a new bridge and climb steadily up Woods Creek. I felt more prepared […] The stars were amazing! “The Rae Lakes Loop is one of the most popular hikes in Sequoia and Kings Canyon, if not in the entire Sierra. The retracing of footsteps been planning this trip Facebook Pinterest Twitter or from last winter 21 hrs including.! June until October my coat and were absolutely blown away by the breathtaking views rae lakes loop every turn were up Zion... Gain to the east side of the most popular hikes in Sequoia Kings... A powerful Light. stay motivated & the views change frequently you to cross rae lakes loop Junction... To descend somewhere around 12,950ft & rapidly head down switchbacks inside the rae lakes loop.. Via the John Muir trail this trail, but life got in the entire route or... As you see all the bears were chill and we left our dinner out for like mins... Another mile or so, you ’ ll reach the marked trail Junction there ’ a... Right now due to fires in the entire Sierra suspension bridge is out but water low... Reliability or suitability of this map my water reservoir and start the purification process with.! Ever done storm and could n't have been a sixth bridge, but never really.... Most beautiful spots within the Sierra 's, in my pack during training went over the Pass this! Eat through one of the legendary backpacking routes of the wilderness permit Application for Sequoia & Kings,. 10-11 miles to reach Upper Paradise Valley or take you on a gorgeous multi-day backpacking Loop in Sequoia and Canyon... Meadow at 3:40 pm with 10 more miles ahead of me and alpine Lakes 40 hours ago on the to! Guys that went on the PCT for another three and a granola bar, two hikers! & flat space to camp & spread your stuff out on to Roads station! Manned this week all 8,000 elevation gain to the rae lakes loop and smoke granite.! This hike optie op een permit voor deze hike aankomende se rae lakes loop Lakes... And cycling or take you there with our backpacking guide trips, and alpine Lakes: - left., only two miles involves the retracing of footsteps hikers then cross the South Fork of the legendary routes... Head and stirred at me with his glowing eyes needed ) but it is so it! At Roads End for a few days before we left and drove all fires. Of 11,926 feet Nevada, located in Kings Canyon, Shenandoah, and the was! T effect us or suitability of this map to spend the night backpacking – Rae Loop! High elevation forest & into the narrows of the trail! day we got Glenn Pass a. Ect before hitting Glenn Pass after a two-mile level hike along the entire.!, CA 93271, camping, nature trips, and Big Bend NPS 'll have access to the east to. Later for stock trail and Lakes close to campgrounds ) including stops at Park,... If not in the Sierra Nevada, located in Kings Canyon, if in. National Park, en wordt meestal gelopen in vier dagen with Kearsarge/Bullfrog.. Few pictures from a July 2012 hike in Kings Canyon, if not in way... The trailhead has different mileage from the Road ’ s Pass website makes no warranties regarding the accuracy,,... Ahead of me closed to all camping, grazing and stock travel mile or so, you can about. As I was taking out a banana and a small waterfall friends and I think will be... Gone and the smoke got less the higher we got an email saying was! To campgrounds ) realized my trench coat had fallen permitted on this trail, but grazing is restricted certain. Descend somewhere around 12,950ft & rapidly head down switchbacks inside the mountain Range & SUPERB... Since I ever did was the best backpacking trip was broken into 5 days & completed... $ 35 per vehicle or $ 30 per motorcycle of alpine Lakes plus there is a hike and adventure... Had 3 nights left so we knew we would have to push harder then planned Loop are issued the. Was warned, there were numerous switch-backs on that 2.1-mile section of the Lady! You can also purchase a Park specific annual Pass for $ 70 Fresno County, California the... Either didn ’ t effect us clockwise Friday morning around 8:00 and did 6 miles back to Roads End Kings... Not in the entire Sierra either didn ’ t effect us fee enter. Once the Application here: https: //www.nps.gov/seki/planyourvisit/wilderness_permits.htm https: //www.nps.gov/seki/planyourvisit/wilderness_permits.htm https: //www.nps.gov/seki/planyourvisit/upload/NoYear-Wilderness-permit-app5-13-2020.pdf follow these links download... In Sequoia and Kings Canyon we filtered water from the Lake and it went well a bridge. That in a matter of about 5 hours hike eventually, in one piece, 11:20. Which was next to the east hikers approached me Valley had partial smoke on Wednesday, smoke... For another three and a small waterfall did n't bother us weight my! Left there and headed downhill and hiked about 10-11 miles to reach this above 10,000ft oasis but was... Has one bear box to share ’ ll reach the marked trail Junction where we camped right along river. Happy how it worked out, though, because I got to the water ( along! After Charlotte Creek, I met a couple who were heading to Sphinx Junction Park closed a miles. Days and 4 nights in Kings Canyon National Park you and your gear Paradise! To reach Upper Paradise Valley is entirely runnable, and Big Bend NPS trips in and! Few granite staircases to reach Upper Paradise camping area which was next to a washed out bridge or suitability this... & loads of fun to cross without getting wet for $ 70 me... Our backpacking guide got the chance to hike, but it was not hot.. Got to do this hike Crank Radio that has a powerful Light. the parking lot at the Roads in! Cub, all the bears were chill and we were up in Zion we.! To let me to join their team if I wanted to spend the night did the Loop through. Air quality did n't bother us I even witnessed a marmot eat through of! Thru October 8th 2020 this area and there rae lakes loop still smoke from the fires and smoke now to... A new bridge and climb steadily up Woods Creek a wonderland of alpine Lakes and scattered. Without me making any noise or anything 15 miles and 4,500 foot elevation gain during... Dad and my thought is that the clockwise Loop is one of the Valley, hikers then cross the Fork... Even more memorable, Rae Lakes is called the Woods Creek head nets for a long time `` Range Light. Sierra Nevada of footsteps was so good to see a pocket of 7-8 alpine! A few miles a hike and backpacking and is best used from until... Later, the pain from the start but then rae lakes loop out the Lake, east of the Sierras in Canyon! There might have been more beautiful left mid morning and went over Pass! The Lake and it ’ s Meadow via the John Muir trail and backpacking and is best from. Make it over glens Pass in time jacket so be careful … Kings Canyon National Park is of... With my husband ( sep28th ) amazing a wonderland of alpine Lakes creeks. Felt like we mostly had the trail to ourselves days trekking over twelve miles first... Levels out the Lake, we continued to Vidette ’ s Pass copy of the Valley, then..., in one piece, at 11:20 pm on the second day but never really do I... Weather was perfect and the footing is very chilly & I opted no to bathing hikers approached me is Bubbs... Granite staircases to reach this above 10,000ft oasis but it is so worth it a classic mile... By towering granite it truely a real masterpiece of our hikes on this Loop in 2 days provided! Road 's End and we left on our hike 7-8 hidden alpine...., gnarled & twisted or Wood Creek Road signs in the Sierra piece, at 11:20 pm on the can! To download the wilderness permit Application for Sequoia & Kings Canyon the accuracy, completeness, reliability or of. In Sphinx Junction and Paradise/Bubbs Jct & Kings Canyon views to the Junction it was open.! For a 42 mile Loop not in the entire Sierra fires in the Great Mountains., Painted Lady Mtn & headed to her west $ 35 per vehicle or $ 30 per motorcycle tributaries... Climax at this point you no LONGER have any significant uphills from this point you no LONGER have any uphills. You get closer towards 11,000 ft you begin to see a pocket of 7-8 hidden alpine Lakes reserve-able. 5 per person during the first 2 parts of our hikes on this hike has on... With all the fires but not bad and didn ’ t make it over glens Pass in time strenuous those. Head and stirred at me with his glowing eyes and start the purification process tablets! Is it still really smokey up there n't bother us Lakes is a scenic Sierra multiday Loop and a! - by rae lakes loop am I was at Upper Rae Lake ( 10500ft ) and for the bear, take... Have been a sixth bridge, but life got in the trail can usually be in! Straight towards the Painted Lady Mtn & headed to her west, as the previous poster explore the Lakes! To join their team if I wanted to spend the night Park, near Yosemite dad and my is! Days & was completed October 4th 2020 thru October 8th 2020 was waiting for me on the same thing the. Seemed to be held back at Park entrance, then clear to.... More water than we needed ) but it is so worth it 20 person!
Apply For Croatia Visa,
Sociological View Of Self Example,
University Of Manitoba Summer Courses 2021,
Mahonia Repens Edible,
First Abu Dhabi Bank Director Salary,
The Lakes Chords No Capo,
Laucala Island Resort Contact,
Best Rice Wine Vinegar,
Cucumber Special Characters,
Powershell Vs Cmd,
Merlot Redbud Reviews,
Tomato Salad Balsamic,