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Rae Lakes Loop permit

Rae Lakes Gear Checklist

What to carry on Rae Lakes, and why. 1 item is written into the permit rules and 9 more are worth the pack space.

10Total Items
1Required
9To bring

What to bring on Rae Lakes

Specific to this permit, not a generic camping list. One item is written into the permit rules, and every one of those carries the rule it comes from.

  • Required

    Bear canister

    hard-sided, IGBC-approved—mandatory

    Permit rule: “Bear canister mandatory—no exceptions; bear boxes are for thru-hikers only”

  • Bring

    Water filter

    abundant sources but treatment required

  • Bring

    Sturdy footwear for rocky, uneven trail

  • Bring

    Rain gear and warm layers for high elevation

  • Bring

    Sunscreen, lip balm, and sunglasses

    intense UV above 10,000 ft

  • Bring

    Trekking poles

    essential for Glen Pass and creek crossings

  • Bring

    Microspikes/ice axe for early season

    before mid-July

  • Bring

    Camp shoes for creek crossings and campsite comfort

  • Bring

    Pack towel for refreshing dips in the lakes

  • Bring

    Satellite communicator

    no cell service on entire loop

15 people can go on one permit. Split this list between them so nobody carries two stoves.

Build a shared list

General backcountry gear

Kit we recommend for backcountry trips in general. This is not a checklist specific to Rae Lakes — the Sequoia & Kings Canyon National Parks rules for this permit are above.

🎒
Recommended
Wild Ideas

Bearikade Weekender

Ultralight carbon fiber bear canister. IGBC certified.

1 lb 15 ozultralightcarbon-fiber
$325
🎒
Recommended
Katadyn

BeFree 1L

Ultralight collapsible filter system.

2 ozultralightfast-flow
$44.95
🎒
Recommended
BearVault

BV500 Bear Vault

The most popular bear canister for Sierra backpacking. Fits 7 days of food.

2 lbs 9 oz7-day capacityapproved
$89.95
🎒
Recommended
Black Diamond

Distance Carbon Z

Lightweight folding carbon poles.

1 lb 1 ozcarbonfolding
$169.95
🎒
Recommended
Sawyer

Sawyer Squeeze

The most popular water filter for backpacking.

3 ozpopularreliable
$37.95

Gear Tips for Rae Lakes

💡 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.

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