Skip to content
Back to Rae Lakes

Rae Lakes Gear Checklist

Everything you need for your Rae Lakes adventure. 1 required items and 1 recommended items.

2Total Items
1Required
1Recommended
🎒
Required
BearVault

BV500 Bear Canister

Required for wilderness areas with bear activity

2 lbs 9 ozrequiredfood-storage
$79.95
🎒
Recommended
Nemo

Nemo Hornet Elite 2P

Ultralight 2-person tent perfect for backpacking

2 lbsultralightbackpacking
$449.95

Gear Tips for Rae Lakes

⚠️ Required Gear

  • •Bear canister (hard-sided, IGBC-approved—mandatory)
  • •Water filter (abundant sources but treatment required)
  • •Sturdy footwear for rocky, uneven trail
  • •Rain gear and warm layers for high elevation
  • •Sunscreen, lip balm, and sunglasses (intense UV above 10,000 ft)

✓ Recommended Gear

  • •Trekking poles (essential for Glen Pass and creek crossings)
  • •Microspikes/ice axe for early season (before mid-July)
  • •Camp shoes for creek crossings and campsite comfort
  • •Pack towel for refreshing dips in the lakes
  • •Satellite communicator (no cell service on entire loop)

💡 Pro Tips

  • •Weigh your pack before you go. A lighter pack makes for a happier hike.
  • •Rent expensive gear if you are trying a new activity for the first time.
  • •Test all new gear at home before hitting the trail.
  • •Check current regulations as some items may be required seasonally.

Affiliate Disclosure: This page contains affiliate links. When you purchase gear through these links, PermitSnag earns a small commission at no extra cost to you. We only recommend products we genuinely believe in. This helps us keep the lights on and continue building tools to help you get into the backcountry.