Rae Lakes Backpack...
Posted: May 25 2010 9:16 am
Buddy of mine at the ABC has posted a 3 night 4 day backpack in Kings Canyon NP to visit the Rae Lakes:
I'm planning on going - kinda nervous and excited at the same time! There are a few more open spots, so if you're interested in an incredible adventure, let me know!This is one of the world’s great hikes. Many say that this 4-day adventure in Kings Canyon National Park takes us to the heart of the Sierras and that Rae Lakes is one of the most beautiful places on earth.
We’ll head over to Independence, CA on Friday and catch a few hours shuteye at the Onion Valley campground. On Saturday, we’ll climb 2,600’ up to Kearsarge Pass (11,823’) where we’ll enjoy amazing views of knife-edge ridges and high peaks as far as the eye can see. Heading down, we’ll drop into the spectacular Kearsarge Lakes basin. Our camp after 6 miles will be beside a scenic high alpine lake.
On day two we’ll connect with the PCT/JMT trail which will take us up and over snow covered Glen Pass (11,978’). The north side of the pass will be a long, dangerous ice field as we drop down to our camp at the world famous Rae Lakes (10,560’). We’ll have plenty of time to explore the area and the fishing is world-class! The days hike will be 7.5 miles.
We’ll retrace our steps on Monday and head home late Tuesday morning.
This trip is well suited to fit and very experienced backpackers. High alpine experience is strongly recommended. We will cross steep icy snow fields, temperatures will be below freezing, and the mosquitoes will be out in full force.