Rae Lakes Backpacking

Kings Canyon National Park

Rae Lakes, Kings Canyon National Park, California
Rae Lakes, Kings Canyon National Park, California

Rae Lakes Backpacking

Kings Canyon National Park


Rae Lakes

In the Heart of Kings Canyon National Park

Scenic Rae Lakes spread in a broad cirque at the foot of grand peaks such as Painted Lady, Mount Rixford, and Dragon Peak. Off to the south stands 12,000-foot Glen Pass, the next challenge awaiting those who are making a clockwise circuit of the famous Rae Lakes Loop.

The bridge above Paradise Valley across the South Fork Kings River, which was washed out in the winter of 2016-17, still has not been rebuilt (3/2024). Crossing the river there can be very dangerous when river flows are high. Check with rangers before applying for your wilderness permit. If the crossing is unsafe, take the Bubbs Creek approach to Rae Lakes (a different permit) and return by the same route.

Beautiful views emerge as the hiker arrives at Rae Lakes after 2-3 days on the trail. Campsites are plentiful around the several main lakes and back down the valley. Camping is limited to 1 night per lake between Dollar Lake and Glen Pass in order to protect the area from overuse. The lakes are a popular stopping place for hikers on the John Muir Trail, but nice campsites can be found along more remote shorelines of the lakes.

Rae Lakes, Kings Canyon National Park, California

Rae Lakes



Wildlife

Bears in Kings Canyon have learned that hikers use bear canister and bear boxes to protect their food. Consequently, although you may see bears around Paradise Valley and lower Woods Creek, they will pay little attention to you as long as you keep your distance. Deer are fairly tame, especially at lower elevations. Rattlesnakes are rare along the trail, but hikers should always use caution. Off-trail travelers should keep their eyes open. For those making the full Rae Lakes loop and exploring side trails, be aware that the Gardner Basin trail is well known as a rattlesnake haven.,

Mosquitoes are pesky early summer through mid-August. By late August and through September they are usually not a problem. Watch for marmots sunning on the rocks around Rae Lakes.

Rae Lakes - Key Facts


Location: Kings Canyon National Park, 80 miles east of Fresno
Trailhead: Road's End in Cedar Grove, elevation 5,035 feet
Middle Rae Lake elevation: 10,538 feet
Elevation Gain: 5,503 feet
Hiking Distance: 22.7 miles (best spread over 2-3 days)
Best seasons: Summer through fall
Campsites: Scenic spots around all three lakes



sign to Rae Lakes, 22.7 miles

Rae Lakes, Kings Canyon National Park, California

Rae Lakes

Rae Lakes - Key Facts


Location: Kings Canyon National Park, 80 miles east of Fresno
Trailhead: Road's End in Cedar Grove, elevation 5,035 feet
Middle Rae Lake elevation: 10,538 feet
Elevation Gain: 5,503 feet
Hiking Distance: 22.7 miles (best spread over 2-3 days)
Best seasons: Summer through fall
Campsites: Scenic spots around all three lakes



sign to Rae Lakes, 22.7 miles

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Rae Lakes Trailhead
Road's End - Cedar Grove

Hikers begin the journey to Rae Lakes at Road's End Trailhead in Cedar Grove, 38 miles from the entrance to Kings Canyon National Park. The wilderness permit office is situated alongside the trail near the parking lot.

Once you check in there, they will issue you a wilderness permit which can be attached to the outside of your pack and a parking permit which goes on your car's dash. Park in the nearby overnight parking area. Do not leave anything in your car that will attract bears. Bear boxes are located adjacent to the parking area. Restrooms are available.




Nearby Day Hikes



Nearby Camping and Lodging

In nearby Cedar Grove you will find several large campgrounds. In the summer it is wise to have a reservation if you plan to camp there. Lodging is available at the Cedar Grove Lodge. A snack bar is open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner during the summer. Next door is a gift shop and market. Showers are also available.

More campgrounds, lodging, stores, a post office, and restaurant are found 35 miles back at Grant Grove.

The Cedar Grove Pack Station is located near Cedar Grove Village.