Different routes into Rae Lakes

[a_gunslinger]

Im going to do Rae Lakes 42 mile loop.  My wife is interested but unfortunately has a funky anke from some pas trauma.  Dont think she could do the loop.  I know you can approack Rae Lakes via Inion and Kearsarge.  Are there any other known routes that might be shorter and less aggressive?  Not as much a fan of the out and backs so wondering if there are any loops Im not seeing via JMT or other.  Had a local airport say they could fly her up to Lower Paradise Valley ;^)

[jscott]

As I recall the trail in from roads end on the west is pretty benign. But then you’d need to ascend a pass and descend to hike out on a loop. Otherwise, the dreaded in ‘n out.

[DWR D]

Since I don’t have eyes in the back of my head, I never mine in and out hikes… In face, I like them because I see a different view on the return… the view that no eyes in the back of my head could not see …  :)))

[Dan]

Since I don’t have eyes in the back of my head, I never mine in and out hikes… In face, I like them because I see a different view on the return… the view that no eyes in the back of my head could not see …  :)))

I agree. And from a practical perspective, there is much less uncertainty about an out-and-back route, especially if you are unsure about the difficulty of the route (e.g. with respect to your wife’s ankle). If you can get in, you can probably get out. If you plan a loop, you never know what you might find after the half-way point, when it is harder to turn back.

[Robert Spencer]

The loop is epic, but you will have to work to enjoy the whole thing. Given that the entry from the west is a flat 2 miles you will be hard-pressed to find an easier access point.  I’m not aware of any shortcuts that would lessen the challenge.

[jscott]

Yes the pass is just AFTER Rae Lakes if you hike in from Roads End, so you can opt to simply return by that route if there are any issues with your wife’s ankle.

[Author]

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