Are dogs allowed on Rae Lake via Bubbs Creek?

Yes, dogs are allowed on Rae Lake via Bubbs Creek but must be kept on a leash at all times. Pack out waste and respect wildlife.

Do I need a permit to hike Rae Lake via Bubbs Creek?

No, Rae Lake via Bubbs Creek does not currently require a permit. Still check for seasonal closures or day-use fees with the managing agency before heading out.

How difficult is Rae Lake via Bubbs Creek?

Rae Lake via Bubbs Creek is rated expert. It is 35.6 miles long with 11,450 feet of elevation gain. Difficulty ratings reflect a combination of distance, elevation gain, and terrain — your experience will depend on your fitness level and trail conditions.

What is the best season to hike Rae Lake via Bubbs Creek?

Rae Lake via Bubbs Creek is best hiked in summer and fall. Conditions vary year to year — check the trail status and weather forecast before your visit.

Status unknown — verify before visiting

We don't have current condition data for this trail. Check with the land manager before you go.

See California trail conditions

ExpertOut and Back

Kings Canyon National Park/California

Rae Lake via Bubbs Creek

Hume, California

35.6 mi

Distance

11,450 ft

Elev. Gain

16h 8m

Est. Time

Out & Back

Route Type

Expert

Difficulty

About This Trail

Rae Lake via Bubbs Creek is a challenging 35.6-mile out-and-back trail located in Kings Canyon National Park near Hume, California. This trail offers hikers an opportunity to experience the rugged beauty of the Sierra Nevada, with significant elevation gain of approximately 11,450 feet. The trail climbs from a starting elevation of 1,549 meters to a maximum elevation of 3,647 meters, providing panoramic views of the surrounding peaks and valleys. The terrain is primarily dirt, and the trail is known for its demanding nature, making it suitable for experienced hikers looking for a strenuous backpacking adventure.

Trail Conditions

Unknown

We have no current condition data for this trail. Check with the operator before you go, and submit a report below if you've been recently.

No recent condition reports. Be the first to share what you see on the trail.

Hazards & Warnings

steep elevation gainhigh altitudepotential for snow

Elevation Profile

Min:1,549 ft

Max:3,647 ft

3,490 ft

Trail Details

Route Type: Out & Back
Surface: Dirt

Official sources & verification

Managed by National Park Service

Verify before you go

Source of truth

National Park Service unit page
Alerts, conditions, and the unit's plan-your-visit page.

Verify by phone or mail

Operator:559-565-3341
Address:CA

Best Seasons

Summer Fall

Highlights

alpine scenerySierra Nevada peaksKings Canyon National Park setting

Reviews

No reviews yet

Be the first to share your experience and help others plan their visit.

Legacy import — verify before navigating

Path geometry came from our pre-launch legacy database. Routes have not yet been re-verified against the operator and may differ from the actual trail.

Hunt context

This trail crosses hunting units

During hunting seasons, wear blaze orange and check regulations — see the California hunting page

Status unknown — verify before visiting

Rae Lake via Bubbs Creek

About This Trail

Trail Conditions

Trail Conditions

Hazards & Warnings

Elevation Profile

Trail Details

Best Seasons

Highlights

Reviews

No reviews yet

This trail crosses hunting units

Nearby Trails

Mt. Whitney Loop

Paradise Valley Trail to Woods Creek Crossing

Mist Falls Trail

Paradise Valley Trail

Avalanche Pass Trail to Roaring River Via Kanawyers Trail

Rae Lakes Trail

Other trails in Kings Canyon National Park

Mist Falls Trail

Rae Lakes Trail

Big Baldy Ridge Trail

Roaring River Falls Trail

Zumwalt Meadow Loop Trail

Paradise Valley Trail

Campgrounds near this trail

Moraine Campground

Canyon View Group Sites

Kings Canyon National Park Canyon View Group Sites

Sentinel Campground

Sheep Creek Campground

Jennie Lakes-Backcountry

Similar trails in California

Mount Whitney Trail

Rae Lakes Trail

Heaton Flat Trail to Iron Mountain

Sespe River Trail to Willett Hot Springs

American River Bike Trail (Jedediah Smith Memorial Trail)

Pioneertown to Big Bear via Burns Canyon Road and 2N02