TR: Classic Rae Lakes Loop, 10/16-18/2020

[jimmyjamhikes]

Ever since I did two weeks with friends on the John Muir Trail this summer, I was itching for a solo trip in the Sierra. But then California caught on fire, and I ended up going everywhere but the Sierra the last few months.

Well last weekend I finally got my chance! Inyo is still closed, but Kings Canyon is open and is about as far as you can get from the Castle and Creek Fires in the Southern Sierra. So off I went to Roads End.

I originally had planned to do an exploration of Gardiner Basin, but I am preparing to attempt a thru-hike of the PCT in 2021 so I thought it would be better practice to just grind out some miles on popular trails. I was able to complete the loop in less than 48 hours, so I hope that bodes well for my trip next year! (Though I *did* pass two trail runners doing it in a single day!)

The full report is here:

https://jimmyjamhikingclub.com/2020/10/16/bubbs-creek/
https://jimmyjamhikingclub.com/2020/10/ ... ood-stuff/
https://jimmyjamhikingclub.com/2020/10/ ... se-valley/

But here are some highlights:


Paradise Valley


East Vidette Alpenglow


Upper Rae Lakes Basin


Upper Rae Lake


Fin Dome


Tarn below Arrowhead Lake


Dollar Lake


Window Peak, Pyramid Peak, and Mount Ickes


Fall colors along Woods Creek


Castle Domes


The Moraine Fire


Mist Falls

[Jim F]

jh,

Your splendid TR is appreciated. What a rewarding weekend outing with superb conditions!

Good luck on the PCT in 2021.

Jim

[kpeter]

I love your fall colors shot and the moraine fire shot. The smoke actually enhanced the feeling of distance in that one. A nice trip report

[sekihiker]

Enjoyed the full report. Thanks for posting. I've only done it clockwise, so this was like a different trip.