Standing at Glen Pass with crystal-clear alpine lakes spread below me, I knew the Rae Lakes Loop had earned its reputation.
As a certified wilderness guide with over 15 years of hiking in California’s High Sierra, I’ve completed this trail three times.
The Rae Lakes Loop ranks among California’s top backpacking trips. This 40-mile circle offers granite peaks, pristine lakes, and alpine meadows that showcase the Sierra Nevada at its best.
You’ll get my honest trail review, practical planning advice, and insider tips from real experience. This guide shares everything from permit strategies to gear lessons learned on the trail.
My Honest Review of the Rae Lakes Loop Trail
After hiking the Rae Lakes Loop three times, I can share what makes this trail both special and tough. The trail is long and requires good fitness and some backpacking experience. Over four days, hikers climb about 7,500 feet, with Glen Pass at 12,000 feet being the most challenging part. While it is not the hardest trail in the Sierra, it is more difficult than the High Sierra Camps but a bit easier than the John Muir Trail. The main challenge is the steady climb, not the tricky terrain.
The scenery along the trail is amazing. From the top of Glen Pass, you get incredible views of the Rae Lakes below. Domes like Fin Dome and the Painted Lady make great spots for photos. The trail also offers frequent chances to see wildlife. On my hikes, I spotted black bears, mule deer, and lots of marmots.
The rocks and granite formations along the way are always changing. Some look like small castles, while others are smooth and rounded. These natural shapes add variety and make the hike feel exciting at every turn. Overall, the Rae Lakes Loop combines physical challenge with unforgettable scenery.
Day-by-Day Personal Trail Journal
Day 1: Roads End to Upper Paradise Valley – The flat start lulls you into thinking this will be easy. Mist Falls provides a refreshing break before real climbing begins. Upper Paradise Valley offers excellent camping.
Day 2: Upper Paradise Valley to Middle Rae Lake – This day tests your legs with the steepest climbing. Castle Domes Meadow opens up spectacular views before the final push to the lakes.
Day 3: Middle Rae Lake to Junction Meadow via Glen Pass – Glen Pass requires an early start to avoid storms. The climb is steep but rewards you with 360-degree views.
Day 4: Junction Meadow to Roads End – Your legs will feel the downhill pounding along Bubbs Creek. The final miles stretch forever when you’re tired.
What I Wish Someone Had Told Me Before Starting
Pack lighter than you think – every ounce matters on climbs. Bring blister treatment because rocky terrain is tough on feet. Start training with a loaded pack two months before your trip.
Time your Glen Pass crossing for early morning to avoid thunderstorms. Bring microspikes if hiking before August in heavy snow years.
Securing Your Rae Lakes Loop Permits
Getting permits requires planning and luck. Reservations open exactly six months in advance at 7:00 AM Pacific Time on recreation.gov. Popular dates sell out within minutes.
Walk-up permits offer backup for flexible hikers. Visit the Roads End Permit Station the day before your planned start for 1:00 PM releases. Arrive early because competition is fierce.
Kearsarge Pass provides an alternative entry that sometimes has better availability. This option adds 13 miles but requires permits through the Inyo National Forest.
Planning Your Rae Lakes Loop Itinerary
Planning your days on the Rae Lakes Loop can make the hike much more enjoyable. The trail is tough, and a good plan helps you avoid unnecessary struggles.
Most hikers do the loop clockwise, starting at Woods Creek and ending at Bubbs Creek. This way, the climbs are more gradual, and the steepest sections come later when your backpack is lighter. Some hikers prefer counterclockwise to get the hardest climbs done first, but weather and permit rules sometimes decide this for you.
How long you spend on the trail depends on your fitness and how much time you want to enjoy each spot. A 3-day plan moves fast, hitting Upper Paradise Valley, Middle Rae Lake, and finishing quickly. A 4-day plan adds Junction Meadow, giving more time for scenery and rest, which many hikers like. A 5-day plan is slower, covering more lakes and valleys, and lets you take it easy.
Overall, the 4-day plan is the most balanced. It keeps daily distances manageable while still giving you enough time to enjoy the views and wildlife along the way.
What to Expect on the Rae Lakes Loop Trail
Understanding trail conditions helps you prepare for the specific challenges this route presents.
Trail Conditions and Terrain Breakdown
Trail surface varies from sandy near Roads End to rocky granite slabs around Glen Pass. Expect loose scree on the steepest sections and some exposed areas.
Snow can block Glen Pass into July during heavy winters. Creek crossings become challenging during spring snowmelt. Late season brings stable weather but limited water.
Water Sources and River Crossings
Water is generally reliable with sources every few miles. The South Fork Kings River crossing requires the most caution since the bridge washed out.
Always treat water from any source. Fill up whenever you find clean, flowing sources rather than waiting until low.
Camping Along the Rae Lakes Loop
Picking good campsites can make your hike more enjoyable and help you follow the rules of the wilderness. Some spots are better for views, while others are easier for water or food storage.
Upper Paradise Valley has plenty of space and river access, making it a popular choice. Middle Rae Lake has amazing scenery, but it fills up fast. The bear box there is convenient for keeping food safe. Junction Meadow is good for bigger groups, though mosquitoes can be a problem early in the season. Charlotte Creek offers more privacy and easy access to water.
It’s important to follow camping rules. Always camp at least 100 feet away from lakes, rivers, and trails. You can stay one night at each Rae Lake and up to two nights in Paradise Valley. Fires are not allowed above 10,000 feet, including near the Rae Lakes. Use established fire rings only when allowed.
By choosing your campsites wisely and following these rules, your trip will be safer and more enjoyable, with less stress over permits or wildlife encounters.
Wildlife Safety and Natural Hazards
The Sierra is home to many types of wildlife, so it’s important to be careful and prepared. Black bears are common along the Rae Lakes Loop, and proper food storage is essential. Bear canisters are required for the entire trail. I’ve seen bears twice, including a mother with cubs that stopped the trail for about 30 minutes. Always store scented items in a bear canister at night, keeping it at least 100 feet from your tent and away from cliffs.
Other animals and seasonal hazards also require attention. Mosquitoes can be very annoying in July, especially near meadows. Bring strong insect repellent and a head net if you’re sensitive. By mid-August, mosquitoes are usually gone.
Rattlesnakes sometimes appear in the lower sections of the trail, so watch where you step and give them plenty of space. Marmots may chew on gear that contains salt, so store items carefully.
By respecting wildlife and taking simple precautions, you can stay safe and enjoy the natural beauty of the trail without problems.
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Essential Gear for Rae Lakes Loop Success
Having the right gear makes the Rae Lakes Loop safer and more comfortable. Bear canisters are required, layered clothing handles temperature changes, and rain gear is essential. Bring maps, a GPS backup, headlamps with extra batteries, and first aid supplies.
Trekking poles protect knees, a camp towel helps cool off, and blister treatment is useful. Skip heavy items like large chairs, use a sit pad, and pack extra socks for rocky terrain.
Physical Preparation and Training Guide
Start training 8-10 weeks before with regular hiking, including elevation gain. Build up to carrying full pack weight on training hikes.
Focus on leg strength exercises like squats for sustained climbs. Cardio fitness helps at altitude, where oxygen is limited.
Plan rest days between challenging trail days for recovery. Light stretching and proper hydration help your body handle daily stress.
Getting to Roads End Trailhead
Roads End sits 2.5 hours’ drive from Fresno. Take Highway 180 east through Grant Grove toward Cedar Grove. No services for the final hour.
Parking fills during peak season, but spaces are available before 9:00 AM. $35 National Park entrance fee required. No overnight parking allowed.
Cedar Grove Village provides the closest lodging, 30 minutes away. Several campgrounds offer options, but reservations are essential during the summer.
Responsible Hiking and Leave No Trace Ethics
Pack out all trash, including toilet paper and food scraps. Bury human waste 6-8 inches deep and 200 feet from water.
Stay on established trails even when muddy. Camp only in designated areas or on durable surfaces. Never build new fire rings.
Respect wildlife by observing from a distance. Keep noise low and leave natural objects undisturbed for others to enjoy.
Extending Your Adventure: Side Trips and Alternatives
The Rae Lakes Loop has options for extending your trip. The Sixty Lakes Basin adds about 8 miles round-trip from Upper Rae Lake, with many lakes, good camping, and great photo spots. An extra day helps you enjoy it fully.
The Kearsarge Pass connection adds about 13 miles and shows different scenery. You need separate permits through the Inyo National Forest, and Kearsarge Lakes are good for camping.
These side trips are perfect for hikers who want more time outdoors or a longer challenge.
Conclusion
The Rae Lakes Loop delivers everything that makes Sierra Nevada backpacking special. From challenging Glen Pass to peaceful alpine lakes, this trail creates lasting memories.
This trail suits intermediate backpackers ready for a real challenge without extreme technical difficulty. For seasoned hikers, this ranks among California’s must-do experiences.
Start planning your permit strategy now, since dates disappear quickly. Train your legs, pack smart, and prepare for one of the most rewarding backpacking trips available.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can Beginners Successfully Complete the Rae Lakes Loop?
This trail challenges beginners but is doable with proper preparation. Build fitness gradually and practice with overnight trips first. Consider shorter Sierra loops before attempting this route.
What Happens If the Weather Turns Bad During Your Trip?
Avoid Glen Pass during lightning storms and seek shelter in low areas. Your tent provides rain protection, but never camp in washes. Emergency evacuation routes exist via Kearsarge Pass.
How Crowded Does the Rae Lakes Loop Get During Peak Season?
July and August see the heaviest crowds, especially at popular camps. Early season and late season offer more solitude. Weekdays are significantly less crowded than weekends.
Are There Resupply Options Along the Rae Lakes Loop?
No resupply options exist on the loop. Food caches aren’t allowed in the wilderness. Plan and pack all food for the entire trip. Emergency help requires hiking out to Roads End.
What Should I Do If I Encounter Aggressive Wildlife?
Make yourself large and back away slowly from bears while speaking calmly. Never run from mountain lions – maintain eye contact and fight back if attacked. Carry a whistle for emergencies.
