Rae Lakes Loop
~3 days · 37.6 mi · hard · Point-to-point
Quick facts
What the Rae Lakes Loop is known for
The Rae Lakes Loop is a classic Kings Canyon National Park circuit past the Rae Lakes basin and over Glen Pass. It's known for its alpine lakes beneath the Sierra crest and is often hiked as a first multi-night High Sierra loop.
Elevation profile
Elevation ranges from 5,089 ft to 11,903 ft over 37.6 mi. Measured from OSM geometry (approximate).
- Uphill 14.9 mi · 40%
- Downhill 17.3 mi · 46%
- Flat 5.1 mi · 14%
Ridgefold breaks every route into uphill, downhill, and flat — see the full per-day breakdown in the app.
How hard is the Rae Lakes Loop?
On the Ridgefold Difficulty Index, the Rae Lakes Loop scores 31/100, a relative rating across the 569 trails we've mapped, blending distance, elevation gain, and steepness. It is a comparison within our set, not an official rating.
Best season & permits
Season: Late June through September.
Permits: Wilderness permit required (quota-controlled).
Official trail & permit info
Always confirm current conditions, closures, and permit rules with the managing authority before your trip.
Frequently asked questions
How many days does the Rae Lakes Loop take?
Most backpackers hike the Rae Lakes Loop in about 3 days (2 nights out) over its 37.6 miles, though pace varies with fitness and conditions.
How much elevation gain is on the Rae Lakes Loop?
The Rae Lakes Loop climbs roughly 8,320 ft total — about 221 ft per mile, topping out near 11,939 ft.
When is the best time to hike the Rae Lakes Loop?
Late June through September.
Do you need a permit for the Rae Lakes Loop?
Wilderness permit required (quota-controlled).
Related trails
Sources & attribution
Route geometry and stats derived from OpenStreetMap (© OpenStreetMap contributors, ODbL) — source relation. Stats are approximate and may differ from official surveys; permit rules and conditions change — verify with the managing authority before your trip. Last reviewed July 2026.