Backpacking Rae Lakes, California - Kings Canyon National Park

Join us for Day One of a 6-day backpacking trip on the Rae Lakes Loop in King's Canyon National Park, California — one of the most iconic trails in the Sierra Nevada. This adventure includes intense river crossings, bear encounters, and some of the most breathtaking scenery in the Sierras.

We start from Road’s End, hike through Paradise Valley, and tackle a major climb surrounded by granite cliffs, waterfalls, and alpine forest. Whether you're planning your own Rae Lakes Loop hike or just love watching backpacking and hiking content, this is the series for you.


🎒 What you'll see in this episode:

Rae Lakes Loop Trail Day 1 hike

Bear encounter at camp 🐻

Paradise Valley & Mist Falls

Backpacking food & gear breakdown

Dangerous river crossing (bridge out!)

Bushwhacking detour through the Sierra wilderness


💬 Topics Covered:

Backpacking King's Canyon National Park

Hiking the Rae Lakes Loop in July/August

Tips for wilderness camping & river crossings

Backpacking meals & bear safety

Sierra Nevada backpacking vlog

Ultralight Backpacking Gear

Durston X-Mid 2+ Pro

Outdoor Vitals CS40 Backpack

Zpacks Arc Air 50 Backpack

BV-500 Bear Canister


📍 Helpful Resources:

🧭 My Backpacking Gear List – Pack Wizard
https://www.packwizard.com/s/suUPVdw

🗺️ Download My GPX File for This Route
https://drive.google.com/file/d/1HxpC...


🎬 Subscribe and hit the bell 🔔 to follow along as we hike to Rae Lakes and Glen Pass in Episode 2.