Rae Lakes Loop in October

[Shawn Smith]

This is my first post here and hope that someone can give me some helpful information. Having read through these forums, I have no doubt that you all will be able to help me out, as there's a lot of experience and knowledge here.

I am planning a trip to the Kings Canyon area this October (mid-October, to be exact…10/17 start date)and plan on doing the Rae Lakes Loop. I have tried to find a trip report for this hike in the October time frame, but haven't been able to find anything. My question is this:

What kind of weather can I expect on the Rae Lakes Loop during mid-October? I realize that weather can be unpredictable…I'm just looking for the normal conditions one can expect during October. Is there anything else I should take into consideration for this time frame?

I appreciate your help and am eagerly awaiting this trip. Thanks!

[Thomas R. Conroy]

Shawn,

We were there in the 1st week in October in 2004. You can expect nighttime temps down into the low-20s and a good possibility of a snowstorm, as we had on our trip. The snow accumulation was not great but it did make going over Glen Pass a little tricky the next day — but very "doable." One spectacular highlight of going that time of year is the Aspen Gold [if they haven't already lost their leaves by mid-October]. Another sheer delight is that should be nary a skeeter anywhere on the trail.

Have a great trip!

[Author]

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