Painted Lady

Overview

Painted Lady is the dramatic, banded peak that towers over the Rae Lakes basin. Its metamorphic "roof pendant" rock stands out against the surrounding granite, and the north face rockets up from the shore of the lakes, making it one of the most photogenic landmarks on the Rae Lakes Loop.

Why Go

If you’re already backpacking the Rae Lakes Loop or hiking the JMT/PCT over Glen Pass, this is a worthy side objective. From its summit, you get big, layered views across Lower, Middle, and Upper Rae Lake, Fin Dome, and the surrounding high country. It’s not technical, so strong hikers comfortable on talus can tag it without climbing gear.

Route at a Glance

Most parties ascend from the Rae Lakes side. Leave the main trail and work up Class 2 talus and rubble to the summit—no ropes, but steady footwork matters. The JMT/PCT over Glen Pass runs nearby, so some hikers add Painted Lady after crossing the pass. Keep groups small and tread lightly; this is fragile alpine terrain.

Season and Conditions

This is true alpine country. Snow can linger on approaches near Glen Pass well into early summer, with the most reliable window typically mid/late summer into early fall. Expect strong sun, thin air, and the possibility of afternoon thunderstorms in midsummer. Early in the season, traction or an ice axe may be prudent for approaches over the pass.

Permits and Backcountry Realities

Overnights require a wilderness permit. In the Rae Lakes basin, you’ll find no restrooms, potable water taps, or trash cans—dig a proper cathole and pack out all toilet paper. Bear canisters are required here; don’t count on bear boxes, and bear spray is prohibited. Camping rules are specific: for example, no camping at Dollar Lake and a one‑night maximum at each of Lower, Middle, and Upper Rae Lake.

Planning Notes

If you’re staging the trip, frontcountry campgrounds in Cedar Grove are the closest drive‑in options before you head to the Road’s End trailheads. Many hikers favor camping at Middle Rae Lake for sunrise and sunset light on Painted Lady, and side trips like 60 Lakes Basin start nearby.

Best Time to Visit

Aim for midweek between late July and September for the most reliable conditions and fewer people on Glen Pass. Start early for firmer talus and calmer weather. Photographers get great light at sunrise and late afternoon when the peak’s banded rock glows and the lakes mirror the ridgelines.