So I tried to apply for a clockwise trip of Rae Lakes Loop via the National Park Service. With good reason they limit the number of people per day and stagger them. I could not get the dates I need.

Another packer said you can approach from the US Forest District side (Onion Valley Trailhead) via Kearsarge Pass which connects to the Rae Lakes Loop. And since the US forest district isnt as strict and booked it was easier.

Etiquette question. Is that cheating? If I start on a national forest side and hook up with Rae Lakes Loop I can just camp in any of the scheduled campsites along the way of the trail? Im confused at why National Park Service can be be bypassed that way.

Thanks all.


Edited by a_gunslinger (06/30/20 08:46 PM)