Herbie Murray
The Rae Lakes Loop Trail is a multi-day backpacking trip in Kings Canyon National Park, California. The 41-mile loop is famed for its beauty, with towering peaks, alpine lakes, and mountain vistas. The trail is challenging, with +/- 8,400 feet of elevation gain, and the weather can vary from hot afternoons to cold nights. Given the cold nights, it is important to bring a warm sleeping bag. This article will provide advice on how warm your sleeping bag should be for the Rae Lakes Loop.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Sleeping bag temperature rating | 30°F / -1°C or lower |
| Sleeping bag recommendations | REI Trailbreak 30, REI Co-op Igneo 25 Sleeping Bag |
| Sleeping pad | REI Trailbreak Self-Inflating Pad, Flash Thermal, Therm-a-Rest Trail Pro Sleeping Pad |
| Pillow | Ultralight Inflating Pillow, Nemo Fillo Elite |
| Clothing | Wool base layer, fleece mid-layer, down jacket, rain jacket, beanie, gloves, t-shirt, shorts, hiking pants, wool socks, sturdy hiking shoes |
| Water capacity | Minimum 2L |
| Water filter | LifeStraw, GRAYL Geopress, Platypus gravity filtration system |
| Tent | Lightweight, semi-freestanding, double-walled, strong with rain-fly |
| Backpack | 50L or 65L |
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What You'll Learn
Sleeping bag temperature ratings
When backpacking to Rae Lakes, you will need a warm sleeping bag for mountain camping. The Rae Lakes Loop Trail is a 41- to 54.2-mile multi-day backpacking trip in the Sierras, with +/-8,400 feet of elevation. The trailhead is only at 5,000 feet, so the first day of the trek is likely to be quite warm after 11 am. However, the nights will likely be chilly any time you go, and the summer heat can be unrelenting.
To avoid a miserable night of shivering in your tent, it is important to consider the temperature rating of your sleeping bag. Lab-tested temperature ratings are indicated by "EN" (European Norm, the original standard adopted by the sleeping bag industry) or "ISO" (International Standards Organization, which now oversees bag testing). These ratings are useful for making comparisons between bags from different brands.
There are three main rating categories:
International standards from EN or ISO: EN and ISO tests include using a heated mannequin wearing light clothing and a well-insulated pad. The EN 13537 standards are as follows:
- Upper Limit: The temperature at which a standard male can sleep without excessive perspiration, with the hood and zippers open, and arms outside the bag.
- Comfort: The temperature at which a standard female can expect to sleep comfortably in a relaxed position. This is the temperature rating used for women's bags.
- Lower Limit: The temperature at which a standard male can sleep for eight hours in a curled position without waking. This is the temperature rating used for men's bags.
- Trustworthy homebrew ratings, usually from cottage companies.
- Untrustworthy companies who cheat the system in some way.
It is important to note that temperature ratings are estimates and not exact guarantees of comfort. Lab testing simulates how a sleeping bag should be used, but it cannot account for all variables, such as differences in people's clothing, gear, body types, weather conditions, and more. Therefore, when using a sleeping bag outdoors, its comfort level may differ from its tested temperature rating.
When choosing a sleeping bag, consider the coldest conditions you anticipate and select a bag that will keep you warm at or below that temperature. As a rule of thumb, aim for a comfort temperature slightly lower than the lowest temperature you expect. For example, if you're expecting 20°F, assume it may be colder and get a bag comfort-rated to 15°F or 20°F. Additionally, consider using a system of layers, including a sleeping pad and a fleece blanket inside your bag, to adjust your warmth as needed.
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Recommended bags for Rae Lakes
The Rae Lakes Loop Trail is a multi-day backpacking trip in Kings Canyon National Park, California. It is a 41-mile loop with +/-8,400 feet of elevation, starting at 5,050 feet and peaking at 12,000 feet. The trail is known for its spectacular scenery, including towering peaks, alpine meadows, and lakes.
Given the high elevation of the trail, it is recommended to carry a warm sleeping bag designed for mountain camping. The ideal temperature rating for a sleeping bag for this trip is 30°F / -1°C. Here are some recommended sleeping bags for the Rae Lakes Loop:
REI Trailbreak 30
The REI Trailbreak 30 is a comfortable and budget-friendly option for both men and women. It is a good choice if you want to keep costs down, but it may not be suitable for very cold temperatures.
REI Co-op Igneo 25
The REI Co-op Igneo 25 is another option specifically mentioned for the Rae Lakes Loop. While it may be on the higher end in terms of price, it will provide more warmth for colder temperatures.
Nemo Fillo Elite
The Nemo Fillo Elite is an ultra-compact and comfortable option available at REI and Backcountry. It is a good choice if you want to save space in your backpack without compromising on comfort.
Other Recommendations
In addition to a warm sleeping bag, it is essential to carry extra layers to stay warm during the chilly nights. This includes thermal layers, a fleece jacket, a beanie, gloves, and a rain jacket. A sleeping pad, such as the REI Trailbreak Self-Inflating Pad or the Flash Thermal, will also provide extra warmth and comfort from the cold ground.
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Additional items for warmth
When backpacking the Rae Lakes Loop, it is important to prepare for the varying temperatures you will experience. The Rae Lakes Loop is a 41-mile trek in Kings Canyon National Park, California, with +/- 8,400 feet of elevation. The trailhead is at 5,000 feet, so the first day of the trek is likely to be quite warm, and the afternoons can be unrelenting. However, the nights can get very cold. Here are some additional items to ensure you stay warm:
- A warm sleeping bag designed for mountain camping is essential. The REI Trailbreak 30 or REI Co-op Igneo 25 Sleeping Bag are recommended options.
- A sleeping pad will provide extra warmth, comfort and protection from the rocky ground. The Therm-a-Rest Trail Pro Sleeping Pad or the REI Flash Thermal are good choices.
- A wool base layer will keep you warm and dry.
- A comfy fleece mid-layer for extra warmth.
- A down jacket will provide additional warmth for the colder parts of the trek.
- A warm beanie for unexpected cold days.
- Wool socks to keep your feet warm.
- A strong tent with a rain-fly will protect you from the elements. The Alps Mountaineering Chaos 2 Tent is one option.
- A lightweight camp stove to make warm drinks and food.
It is important to pack items that will keep you warm and dry, as the temperatures can drop significantly at night. The more preparation you make, the more streamlined your trip will be.
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Clothing to wear to bed
The Rae Lakes Loop Trail in Kings Canyon National Park is a multi-day backpacking trip that covers 41 to 54.2 miles and +/-8400 feet of elevation. The trailhead is at 5,000 feet, so the first day of the trek is likely to be quite warm, and the nights will likely be chilly.
Stay Dry
Even in the summer heat, it is important to stay dry. Moisture evaporates and siphons off heat, so always sleep in dry clothes.
Choose the Right Fabrics
Wool or synthetic long underwear for sleepwear is always a solid choice. Wool socks and a wool base layer will also keep you dry. Merino wool is a popular option for sleepwear.
Layer Up
If you're expecting cold nights, consider packing thermal layers, a fleece jacket, a beanie, and gloves. A down jacket can also be useful for extra warmth.
Manage Your Drinking
Drinking lots of water will fill your bladder, and your body will have to use heat to warm it. Manage your drinking before bed and answer the call of nature in the wee hours to stay warm.
Eat a Snack
Eating a snack before bed can help your body produce energy and warmth. Complex carbohydrates, such as energy bars with whole grains, are ideal as they provide a steady supply of energy.
Exercise
Doing some light exercise right before bed can help your body produce energy and warmth. The trick is to do enough to get warmed up without breaking a sweat.
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When to start the hike
The best time to start the hike on the Rae Lakes Loop depends on several factors, including the time of year, the weather conditions, and your own physical fitness and hiking experience. Here are some considerations to help you decide when to embark on your hiking adventure:
Firstly, the Rae Lakes Loop is located in a region that experiences cold winters and snowy conditions. Therefore, late spring, summer, and early autumn are generally considered the best seasons to plan your hike. Specifically, August and September are ideal months as most of the snow would have melted by then, making the roads and trails more accessible. The midsummer sun also warms up this usually frigid alpine region. However, keep in mind that the nights can still be chilly during this time.
Secondly, consider the length of your hike and your desired pace. The Rae Lakes Loop is a challenging trail that covers approximately 41 to 54 miles, depending on the sources and specific routes taken. Completing the loop typically takes anywhere from 4 to 8 days, with 6 days being a good benchmark for intermediate hikers, averaging 9 miles per day. If you plan to hike at a moderate pace and cover a similar distance each day, starting early in the morning will ensure you have ample time to set up camp before dark and enjoy the scenery.
Additionally, the Rae Lakes Loop can be hiked in a clockwise or counter-clockwise direction, starting from different trailheads. The Woods Creek Trail (clockwise) and Bubbs Creek Trail (counter-clockwise) are the two primary routes from Road's End in Kings Canyon National Park. The clockwise route is often recommended as your pack will be heaviest at the start, and this direction offers a more gradual elevation profile. This option also allows you to spend a night at Rae Lakes and summit Glen Pass early in the morning, avoiding potential afternoon thunderstorms in the summer.
Furthermore, consider the time required to obtain permits and secure your spot in the walk-up line, especially during the quota season. Permits for the Rae Lakes Loop can be obtained starting at 1 pm the day before your hike or as early as 8:30 am on the day of your hike. However, it is recommended to arrive well before 1 pm or even earlier to increase your chances of securing a permit and starting your hike on time.
Lastly, the time of day and sun exposure can significantly impact your hiking experience. Kings Canyon tends to get very warm in the afternoon, so starting your hike early in the morning, preferably before 9 am, is advisable to avoid the hottest part of the day. This is especially important if you plan to hike during the warmer months.
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Frequently asked questions
The Rae Lakes Loop is a multi-day backpacking trip in Kings Canyon National Park, SEKI National Park, and Sierra Nevada. The 41-mile loop has +/-8,400 feet of elevation and offers towering peaks, alpine meadows, lakes, rivers, and streams.
The Rae Lakes Loop can be very warm in the afternoon, especially after 11 am. The nights can be chilly, and the area is covered in snow for most of the year. August and September are ideal as most of the snow has melted, making roads and trails accessible.
A warm sleeping bag is essential for Rae Lakes. Bags rated to 30°F / -1°C should be well-suited for this trip. It is recommended to choose a sleeping bag with a temperature rating that matches the coldest conditions you anticipate.
In addition to a warm sleeping bag, you should bring a lightweight tent, a sleeping pad, warm clothes and extra layers (including thermal layers, a fleece jacket, a beanie, and gloves), a water filter, trekking poles, a comfortable backpack, and sturdy hiking shoes.
