California High Sierra Odyssey Trek Tour| MT Sobek

Rugged Trails & Rae Lakes Loop in Kings Canyon

Journey across California's spellbinding High Sierra, known as one of the world's greatest treks. Meander along mountain routes to the Road's End trailhead, lace up your boots and hit Bubbs Creek Trail. Cross some of John Muir Trail's famed high passes - Glen Pass, at 11,978 feet, and Rae Lake Basin, the namesake of the high-country route. Reach the famed "Golden Gate of the Sierra" bridge and continue on to Paradise Valley. Camp surrounded by spectacular scenery and rise early for the final stretch - with cascading falls bidding you farewell.

Navigate the stunning Rae Lakes Loop through the wilderness of King's Canyon National Park

Tackle the famous Glen Pass at 11,978 feet and camp at Rae Lakes at 10,500 feet

Reach the "Golden Gate of the Sierra," a suspension bridge spanning across Woods Creek

Why take this trip with us?

Reason #01

On this MT Sobek adventure, hikers will have the luxury of seeing this remote wilderness without the burden of carrying a heavy pack.

Reason #02

Experienced, professional guides crafted this adventure exclusively for MT Sobek. It is fully supported with pack stock to do the heavy lifting.

Reason #03

We first guided the John Muir Trail in 1991 and have been leading adventures in the High Sierra for 50 years.

Meet your guides

Fred Ackerman

Fred enjoyed his first backpacking trip in college, walking 20+ miles in inappropriate footwear and spent a few cold nights in front of the fire without a sleeping bag, and caught the bug from there. Soon, he was spending most of his free time and some not-so-free time plotting and executing adventures to the endless wild places of California. Fred is now an EMT with a certification in wilderness medicine. He's hiked and climbed thousands of miles around the Sierra including a solo 200+ mile hike of the Sierra High Route. Fred's familiarity of the High Sierra and deep passion for the backcountry consistently endears him to MT Sobek hikers.

Sierra Zacks

Sierra was born and raised on the entrance road to Joshua Tree National Park and spent her early years hiking, rock climbing, and horseback riding in the park and the nearby high Sierra. She went on to graduate from UC Santa Cruz with a degree in Ecology and Plant Biology. During this period, she worked UC Santa Cruz's Adventure Outings Department where she led climbing, backpacking, and river trips. She now spends her summers in the High Sierra leading trips and exploring the beautiful landscape. In her free time you can find her rock climbing, botanizing, or birdwatching in the mountains.

Alex Kendrall

Alex grew up in Concord, New Hampshire exploring the mountains of New England. It was here that his spirit and passion for adventure began. Alex's passion for shared wilderness experiences has culminated in a degree in Outdoor Education and certifications from the American Mountain Guiding Association (AMGA). Moving to California was the culmination of a dream come true, where he is able to combine his passion for climbing with a career in guiding. He has a tremendous amount of experience in the backcountry and great leadership qualities which endear him to MT Sobek travelers.

Activities

Moderately challenging hikes through California's High Sierra, dining and camping outdoors, swimming in lakes, and time to unwind and take it all in.

Lodging

A full-service hotel in Fresno to kick off the adventure and camps in pristine wilderness settings along the way.

Climate

Temperatures range from 65-75°F in the days with evenings getting down to 35-45°F. Thundershowers are a possibility however heavy storms are unlikely.

FAQ

What kind of food can we expect?

Your guides take pride in preparing delicious meals that keep your energy level high even in remote surroundings. Meals are packed with nutrition, are hearty, and will keep you satisfied.

What is the total mileage of the trip?

The total mileage of the Rae Lakes Loop is approximately 50 miles in length.

Are there mosquitos?

The presence of mosquitos can fluctuate dramatically from year to year depending on the amount of snowfall during the winter. It's recommended to arrive prepared to encounter some mosquitos during your trip.

Is there any cell phone connectivity up there?

Cell phone connectivity will be non-existent for the majority of our trip. Connectivity will be possible before and after our time in the wilderness. Guides carry emergency satellite communication devices.

What do I have to carry on this trip?

You only carry a daypack the entire way. Mules & guides will carry 15 pounds of each client's gear and you are responsible for carrying any weight over this.

How is water treatment handled on this trip?

We supply water filters on this trip. Although the water in the Sierra is renowned for its cleanliness, we still take precautions. You are responsible for filtering your own daily water.