Rae Lakes in a Day: No Permit, Just PAIN

[@jasonpacific111]

You two always amaze me. You have the desire and the skills to do climbs.. one after the other.. that most mortals don't even dream of. And the Sierras are a rare place on dear mother Earth. Thank you 🎯

[@LiveHardxLoveHard]

Thanks Jason! We totally agree with you about the Sierra -- it is just so special, and something about it continuously pulls us back again and again. Whenever we go over a pass and find ourselves all alone in these places, it just feels like coming home. ❤️

[@BuckaroosAdventures]

I know first hand how hard it is to get good video footage for KZbin during a hike. It truly blows me away how you get such great footage of your journeys and do it with such difficult trails and so many miles hiked. Amazing!!!!

[@LiveHardxLoveHard]

Thanks Dan! Ya it is definitely not easy what with sunspots, etc. But the Sierra helps by being so beautiful no matter which way you point the camera! ❤️

[@davidtate166]

You two will be the best mountain ramble couple in history.mountains love you two.💙

[@LiveHardxLoveHard]

Thanks so much, David. That is so kind of you to say, and really means a lot to us. One day far in the future, we hope people will look back on our videos the way that we today look at people like Bob Burd. But we have a lot of work and hundreds of hikes and climbs to do before then! ❤️

[@videoformer]

Wow! Great! Greetings from a hiker from Germany!

[@LiveHardxLoveHard]

Greetings! We're so happy to share these views of our beloved Sierra with you! We've met lots of great German hikers when we hike in the Austrian Alps, and look forward to going back again for a month or two next summer. ❤️

[@CarlStacey]

Not quite sure how you guys manage to keep up with such incredible content every single time! huge respect for all of the effort put into it all, thank you! another great one of course!

[@LiveHardxLoveHard]

Thanks Carl! So happy you saw this one -- it had been on our bucket list for a long time, but we knew we'd never be able to do it unless we were living at altitude and were acclimatized enough to pull it off. It still crushed us, but wow it was awesome to be at those amazing lakes. Wish we could make the energy of that place come across on camera, but if you ever get a chance you must hike to them and feel it for yourself. It's truly an incredible place. ❤️

[@rhousto1]

Another notch in your hiking belt. What an incredible place to enjoy your pop tarts. My kind of mountainous terrain...what a shame you couldn't spend more time there.

[@LiveHardxLoveHard]

Yes that was our feeling exactly! If it wasn't for those darn thunderstorms we could have spent several more hours just wandering the lakes and maybe even swimming out to that little island! But the good news is we apply for the camping permit lottery every year, and as soon as we get one we're going to take you guys on a really epic off-trail adventure up in that area! ❤️

[@andreajohnson1796]

The sun rise is beautiful as it shines on the mountains, awesome view Thank you for sharing

[@LiveHardxLoveHard]

So glad to share it with you, Andrea! Yes golden hour in the Sierra is really something special, and we give thanks for it every time. ❤️

[@randyspotts5069]

Thank you so much for the magical history tour. You brought back great memories with your marathon route! During Memorial Day weekend in 1970, at the end of my junior year at Orange High School, my friends and I crossed the mountains via Kearsarge Pass. That was an overnighter going from Onion Valley to Roads End on the west side. Then right after graduating from University of Redlands in 1976, two of my frat bros joined me on a Gardener Basin loop trek. I plotted the route with a topo map. Despite stretches of cross country on the loop, my route actually worked! We took short hops. Anyway, during that loop, we used both Kearsarge and Glen Pass. Your journey reminds me how beautiful that area is. I may substitute Kearsarge Pass for one of my other planned day hike routes, on my “Goodwill Tour” of the Eastern Sierra that I will embark on next month. It should be just like Peter Frampton! Anyhow, I'm grateful to you for your inspiration!

[@LiveHardxLoveHard]

Thanks Randy! Huge props to you for doing cross country loops with a topo map. Given our navigational snafus even with GPS, I'm not sure we'd be confident enough to do it with just a paper map! I think adding in Kearsarge pass and lakes to your tour is a great idea. It is one of the best "bang for your buck" hikes in all the Sierra! Love the Frampton reference -- we do feel like you do! ❤️

[@laurenb4621]

Uh oh.... a lot of Adam stepping on babies? Couldn't agree more that places have energy so beautiful and your dedication and commitment is truly inspiring. You both deserve a case of poptarts and jelly beans! PS - I think I spied a mini waterfall at the end by the trailhead? So maybe those shorts were justified after all, sorry Elise! 💪🤩

[@LiveHardxLoveHard]

Hahaha SO much giving up vertical, Lauren! The good news was there was really no other choice -- if he could have traversed from one pass to another he definitely would have rather than going down and back up. At least the pop tarts got him through. And you are right about the waterfall too -- it was actually a pretty nice one, though I feel he has to actually go in the waterfall if he's going to justify those shorts! ❤️ --E

[@johnmcnulty1129]

Wow ! Gold medal 🏅 vlog Adam & Elise. What a place for a trail run. When you're not pausing to admire those lake views ! Incredible energy to the place, even if a storm cloud rolls in. Well done guys ⛈ 🦅🦅 ❤ 🗻🗻

[@LiveHardxLoveHard]

Thanks John! Yes it is probably one of the prettiest trails we've ever done -- right up there with a couple of the Switzerland hikes we did last summer. And you're right -- worth it despite afternoon weather, day-after pain, and everything else! ❤️

[@billyruss]

Unbelievably breathtaking scenery, especially the first couple of minutes in the early morning glow. And, once again, the music complements it perfectly. Great video 🙂

[@LiveHardxLoveHard]

Thanks Bill! We are right there with you about golden hour. It is our favorite time of day in the Sierra, and we love capturing it for you guys when we can. Super happy you liked the music on this one too! ❤️

[@ashwinvasavada8401]

Great one, guys! Such a beautiful sufferfest 😂

[@LiveHardxLoveHard]

Thanks Ashwin! So happy to take you along on this one -- it really is one of the most beautiful routes in the whole Sierra. ❤️

[@spartan612]

Wilddddd. Hats off to you two. As always, be safe!!

[@LiveHardxLoveHard]

Thanks very much! Yes we are all about big adventure this year, but definitely with safety as a priority! ❤️

[@rmensink]

Shockingly beautiful footage of the High Sierra, and very dramatic!

[@LiveHardxLoveHard]

Thanks so much! That route really does have some of the greatest spots in an area that's full of great spots! ❤️

[@markmcla]

I agree that if you can't get a backpacking permit, you can still enjoy a long day hike and get pretty far into the backcountry. Your videos continue to inspire me!

[@LiveHardxLoveHard]

Thanks Mark! Ya it's really just a matter of training for that kind of mileage, going early, and just having fun with it. Of course, it's nicer to backpack and camp if you can get the permits, but also tons of fun to do it in a day if you can't (though we did have a couple of painful recovery days after!). ❤️

[@jeffcottingham3691]

OMG, my profile pic is at Glen Pass! Words cannot express how much I appreciate you taking us along on these trips - I miss being able to do this kind of thing so much. I totally agree with the energy of specific places, Adam, and honestly, the two of you have such a positive outlook even in the midst of a sufferfest that you are a source of energy as well! Thanks again! Much love to you both.

[@LiveHardxLoveHard]

Jeff Glen Pass is the perfect choice! We both are going to feel exactly like you when we can't physically get to these places any more, but at least they will still be vivid in our memories and now on video too!! ❤️

[@sergelainesse7893]

You are so right Elise... Absolutely stunning and beautiful... Can you still walk after such a demanding hike... It's crazy... I always enjoy Elise... 😘😉👌

[@LiveHardxLoveHard]

Thanks Serge! That is a very smart question, and the truth is that it was not at all easy to walk for the next day or two after this one. There was a lot of muscle and joint soreness, especially from having to run so much at the end to avoid the storm. Still though, it was totally worth it! ❤️ --E

[@sergelainesse7893]

@@LiveHardxLoveHard for that it's a amazing hike..., 😘have a great day... Just on the road now with heavy rain as a gift from hurricane Debby

[@LiveHardxLoveHard]

@@sergelainesse7893 Have a great day too, and drive safe!!

[@rickevans831]

What a gorgeous hike and the lakes are absolutely stunning from above and next to them

[@LiveHardxLoveHard]

Thanks Rick! Very glad that came across on camera, because in person they are just huge and glistening and lovely from every angle!! ❤️

[@SequoiaX]

Very Incredible. Thank You.

[@LiveHardxLoveHard]

So happy you enjoyed it! This was a true bucket list adventure for us, and delighted share it with you! ❤️

[@gwbaker]

A gorgeous suffer-fest! Such a stunning ultra, weather be damned! I love how you guys are showing off the gorgeous Eastern Sierra wilderness to all of our friends around the world. We are SO lucky to call this diverse state home. And T-shirt, shoes, socks and shorts all coordinated, Adam? It's those extra touches that reveal your creative side. I absolutely believe in the energy of a place. The more time we spend in nature the finer tuned we become! Note to self: invent a lightening rod headpiece with a long copper tail dragging behind. Love you guys.

[@LiveHardxLoveHard]

Yes GW! I think anyone who's sensitive to the energy of places will be blown away by Rae Lakes. I still haven't figured out how to describe it except to say that it creates an overwhelming sense of well-being. I can't remember if you've been up there before, but if not you gotta go! ❤️

[@12YearOldHiker]

Holy hell! I’m in kings canyon today and did 1/4 of that hike in a day and was destroyed. Doing the entire thing is crazy! Congrats to you 🎉

[@LiveHardxLoveHard]

Wow so happy to hear that you're in Kings Canyon! What an incredible place it is, right? Yes we were pretty destroyed after this one too, and honestly couldn't do too much for the full week after. But it was totally worth it! ❤️

[@Tj-wz1sx]

@@LiveHardxLoveHard hi Have y’all guys done Split Mountain yet? I can’t find a way to get to the trail …. I follow the instructions on AllTrails and ended up in front of a locked gate.

[@LiveHardxLoveHard]

@@Tj-wz1sx Not yet, but we absolutely intend to! Will make sure to post the beta for getting to trail when we do, assuming we can get there!

[@debb1137]

This channel should have 10 million subscribers! Totally mindblowing videos! 😍😍😍

[@LiveHardxLoveHard]

Thanks so much, Deb! That is really wonderful to hear, and it makes us super happy to know that you're enjoying them so much. Lots more adventures coming for the rest of this summer and fall!!! ❤️

[@miguelbarreto]

Great natural views up there, and an impressive clear blue sky! Thanks for this video!

[@LiveHardxLoveHard]

Thanks Miguel! Yes the views from those passes are absolutely unmatched, and we were really happy that the weather held off for as long as it did so we could really soak in the beauty! ❤️

[@tracygenereux959]

So cool! I remember crossing paths with you last fall on kearsage pass. Rae lakes and glen/kearsage passes were some of my favorite spots on the PCT :) so epic!

[@LiveHardxLoveHard]

Tracy we remember that so well! We were both blown away by how light your pack was, and you totally got us inspired to do some ultralight multi-day adventures! ❤️

[@tracygenereux959]

@@LiveHardxLoveHard That's amazing 😊

[@hikebytes]

Wow you guys are nuts !! what an accomplishment !!!🙌🏻🙌🏻😀😀

[@LiveHardxLoveHard]

Thanks so much! This was on our bucket list for a long time, and it was definitely worth waiting for!! ❤️

[@sheehybrosmotoadventures4389]

Multiple scenic peaks and deep blue lakes and outstanding fitness, 2 thumbs up"

[@LiveHardxLoveHard]

Haha yes!! This hike is the Sierra at its finest -- glad you enjoyed it!! ❤️

[@BongoX2x2]

You guys are so awesome and fun!!! I feel like I was there. Minus the muscle pain.

[@LiveHardxLoveHard]

Thank you -- so happy we could take you along! And you are right about the muscle pain. We were really, really hurting for a few days after. It was worth it, but yeah -- a lot of recovery the following week! ❤️

[@runnerscorner2994]

Amazing work you two ❤🎉

[@LiveHardxLoveHard]

Thank you -- we def felt good about this one! ❤️

[@marymiller2121]

Love this area. Did as backpack years ago, swam in the lakes, but able to take time and enjoy. Thanks for the beautiful footage. Sierras can’t be beat. Stay healthy⛈️💗

[@LiveHardxLoveHard]

That's awesome you got to backpack it, Mary! We did that once too, and loved every second of the four day trip. This one-day version was definitely a bit less relaxed, but still totally worth it! ❤️

[@thomasshoebotham4407]

Great job avoiding the lightening! The views are OUTSTANDING! That route is definitely high on our priority list.

[@LiveHardxLoveHard]

Yes Thomas! So happy to hear you guys are planning to do it. It is unlike anywhere we've ever been, not just the savage beauty of the passes but also the gentle, almost ethereal energy of the lakes themselves. You will love it!! ❤️

[@aliensoup2420]

Fabulous! I've done Kearsarge 2 times, but only went as far as Charlotte Lake, which is just after the fork up to Glen Pass. I ran into a black bear on the way back to the trail, but it was not interested in me. It sat under a tree eating grass near the trail, so I carefully walked past it within about 50 ft. The Kearsarge Lakes is nice enough for a day-hike if you don't want to do the Glen Pass marathon. I recommend taking the fork to the left down from Kearsarge, instead of the trail you guys took to Glen Pass. Hike all the way down to the lakes and keep to the North side of the lakes trail all the way to Bullfrog Lake. Continue the loop back up to the junction for Glen Pass, and head back to Kearsarge Pass. By visiting the lakes first, and recovering the altitude on the way around, you avoid an extra long climb back up to Kearsarge Pass. I actually love Gilbert Lake, which is the first lake on the trail up to Kearsarge.

[@LiveHardxLoveHard]

That is a great recommendation -- Kearsarge Lakes is an amazing hike in and of itself, and even just Gilbert is well worth a short hike because it is totally gorgeous especially first thing in the morning. What a cool bear encounter, by the way! Black bears are so cool. ❤️

[@larrywheeler9797]

You guys nailed another spectacular adventures! What beautiful scenery in all directions!Makes your head spin seeing it all. So glad you made it safely to completion. Not only lighting, but hail can be something awful too! Say safe guys! Thanks for sharing!!! ❤️

[@LiveHardxLoveHard]

Thanks LB! Yes we were actually worried about hail on this one once we saw the clouds rolling in. Got caught in some hail and lightning in CO once, and definitely didn't want that. And speaking of crazy weather, saw Twisters the other day and were thinking about you. Hope you're doing great! ❤️

[@colbyclay5911]

I’ve been looking forward to this video ever since you guys mentioned wanting to do it, and it did not disappoint! Kearsarge pass was one of my favorite Sierra hikes so far, and I’m hoping with a bit more training I can do this next time I’m in the area. Tuning in a little late because I was doing some hiking and polar plunging in a gorgeous part of the cascades, between two peaks that I hope you guys attempt when you’re around… You both are amazing and glad you beat the storms! Sort of

[@LiveHardxLoveHard]

Oh heck yes, Colby! Super happy to hear you were polar plunging in the cascades!!! Yes you should for sure do this one. The trails are great and there's no route-finding issues at all -- it's just about handling the mileage, but if you work up to it you'll handle it no problem. ❤️

[@bobwallis1757]

you two are so incredible!!!!!!!

[@LiveHardxLoveHard]

Thanks Bob! This one was genuinely a dream come true -- we've wanted to do it for years, and so happy we are finally living at altitude and well-acclimated so we can get it done! ❤️

[@DesertRat332]

My second favorite hike was from Onion Valley to South Lake. Took 3 days and went over 5 passes; Kearsarge, Glen, Mather, Pinchot, and Bishop, if I remember correctly. Beautiful country. (My favorite hike was from Horseshoe Meadow to Crescent Meadow, mostly on the High Sierra Trail.)

[@LiveHardxLoveHard]

Oh my gosh we would love to do both of those hikes!!! ❤️

[@DesertRat332]

@@LiveHardxLoveHard High Sierra Trail is fabulous. I went east to west because my daughter was in Lemoore and picked me up on the west side. I avoided Mt. Whitney because I had already been up it many times. 🙂

[@Steve_Farwalker]

Your plunge spots and snack spots really hit the spot!

[@LiveHardxLoveHard]

Haha thanks Steve! Man that plunge spot is absolutely the best. We've been to other lakes that are as beautiful visually, but never one with the energy that one has. It's otherworldly when you're there! ❤️

[@Ja50nkAt]

I passed through that area when I did the John Muir Tail in 2017, got caught in a heavy rainstorm at Rae lakes at night. The painted lady mountain is so pretty!

[@LiveHardxLoveHard]

Wow that is awesome you did the full JMT. We really, really want to do that as well. Glad the rain came at night rather than going across the pass at least! ❤️

[@ellenclary]

I've glad you were able to pull this adventure off. You probably don't want to hear but the weather was perfect on Aug 11 (no rain at all). Unfortunately, we had to retreat from the steep section above Heart Lake back down to Matlock and Flower Lakes because my climbing partner started to get quite ill. That night, there was an impressive wind storm which you do miss when you only day-hike. Because of your schedule flexibility you shouldn't have a problem picking up the short term permits (2 weeks ahead) though you do have to jump on them when they appear.

[@LiveHardxLoveHard]

Ellen so sorry to hear about the illness -- was it altitude sickness? But glad you had great weather. Yes we are scheming how to get some weekend Sierra camping permits in the fall -- or maybe we'll just go after mid-October -- because we've got a couple things we want to do that will require at least one night in a tent. Also, we want to up our camping game in case we can lock down a summer JMT permit next year! ❤️

[@davidtate166]

Mountain scenery at its finest.

[@LiveHardxLoveHard]

Yes! Nothing beats the Eastern Sierra! ❤️

[@calxtra5361]

pretty lakes guys 😍🥰

[@LiveHardxLoveHard]

Glad you liked them! It really is one of the greatest Sierra lake hikes, with both Kearsarge and Rae lakes. Would be better to do it over 3 or 4 days with camping permits if you could though, and just spend half of each day swimming and playing! ❤️

[@patty8945]

I've been hiking this summer and I have to say, it's not easy. I truly admire you guys, your hiking areas are much more challenging than mine, but yet you make it look so easy and effortless. Love watching your videos! Stay safe and keep uploading.

[@LiveHardxLoveHard]

Thank you so much! Really happy to hear you're hiking and also enjoying these videos -- we will for sure keep making them, because there's nothing we love more than adventure life! ❤️

[@IGE278]

Thank you so much for this video and the inspiration! After hiking Half Dome last year, I was looking out for something similar and wasn't so sure about Mt. Whitney - but THIS trail really seems to be super-beautiful and worth the effort 😃 Also, this video reminded me of the "older style" of your channel that I always enjoyed the most - thank you for giving us glimpses of this adventure 🙏 Stay save and adventurous! ❤

[@LiveHardxLoveHard]

So glad you enjoyed it, Andre, and yes this hike is definitely worth the effort. The camera can only capture so much, but when you see it with your own eyes you will never, ever forget it. And just the energy of Rae Lakes --yes, you gotta do it! ❤️

[@fordraven5884]

That is some absolute amazing gorgeous lakes and Mountain views too bad there's no Cafe up there to celebrate😊😊😊

[@LiveHardxLoveHard]

Haha that is definitely the difference between the US and Europe -- in Europe there would for sure be an awesome cafe up there for a cappuccino and some delicious soup! ❤️

[@Takin_adventure]

Thanks for sharing I have to do it ! Looks amazing 👍

[@LiveHardxLoveHard]

Thank you, It really is an incredible place -- hope you can visit it at some point!! ❤️

[@sluggotinfantryman]

Nice. Kearsarge Pass is the best South end area. Bordered by Shepherd and Taboose passes. Triple threat. What's crazy is they could have gone to Kings Canyon Roads end traveling less distance! Crazy but true.

[@LiveHardxLoveHard]

Yeah Dan we thought about a version where we would organize switching keys with someone half way, but it seemed too complicated so we just ultra-ed it! ❤️

[@adventureswithrussellandan7550]

Wow! What a beautiful sunrise!

[@LiveHardxLoveHard]

Yes! Sierra sunrises and sunsets are something to behold. When the cloud cover is right they can be truly spectacular, and even with no clouds the way the sunlight hits the lakes is awesome! ❤️

[@turnnburn9008]

that is literally a killer hike....30 mi. hardcore.. so amazing.

[@LiveHardxLoveHard]

Thanks very much! Yes in all honesty this one took us longer to recover from than any others we've done. Running those last few miles from the storm at the end really cooked us, but still it was all worth it! ❤️

[@TrekkingTheRockies]

Such an amazingly beautiful area to explore and push yourselves to the limit. You both always have a smiles on your faces even after grueling hike-run. I'll always have a special place in my heart for the Sierras. Thanks for taking me along on your adventure. Love the donkey too.

[@LiveHardxLoveHard]

Haha yes to both Sierra and donkeys! It really was a beautiful hike, and though it took a few days to recover was still totally worth it. Looking forward to some Rockies hikes coming up in October! ❤️

[@amazaspshaumyan3004]

Thanks!

[@LiveHardxLoveHard]

Thank you so much -- that's very kind of you and much appreciated!! ❤️

[@DallasandPhyllisLemon-pb2ry]

WOW! What a beautiful hike you guys did. Those lakes are so stunning! And Adam, you dress funny. 😆

[@LiveHardxLoveHard]

Haha thanks guys -- well you know I had to offset all that natural beauty with just a little bit of sartorial ugly! ❤️

[@DougLutz]

Well done! Logistics to get to the areas that have lotteries for permits are frustrating. The same setup is coming in areas in Alberta, Canada. Last year, there’s one circuit that I did that was 42 km and 3000 metres gain (roughly 26 mi / 9000 ft). Days like that are hugely satisfying- especially if a person doesn’t get rained on!

[@LiveHardxLoveHard]

Thanks Doug! Well done on the 42km circuit. We're finding that that is about our limit. Any more than that, and we're just so beat up afterwards that it takes us too long to recover -- especially if we have to run from the rain! ❤️

[@kimcozean9066]

It is quite impressive Adam that you can color coordinate when you start before dawn. An amazing hike and video as always.

[@LiveHardxLoveHard]

Haha Kim I had that outfit planned for his hike like 3 days in advance! I knew I was gonna need the boost from the waterfall shorts, and I definitely did. We were wrecked by the end, but still was all worth it!! ❤️ --A

[@jasonissertell]

YES!!! This has been on my suffer-fest bucket list for years. Thanks for showing me what I’m up against! 🤙🤙

[@LiveHardxLoveHard]

That is great to hear, Jason! You must do it -- it is absolutely glorious up there, and despite the pain we were in for a few days after it was 100 percent worth it. ❤️

[@DesertRat332]

Back in 2011 I hiked the Rae Lakes Loop in 3 days. Over Kearsarge Pass and down to Roads End, then up Woods Creek(?) to the Rae Lakes area, then over Glen pass and out Kearsarge Pass. I wore cheap hiking shoes and got the worst blisters of my life on the first day (all down hill). Ibuprofen and mole skin and vaseline wasn't cutting the pain. Fortunately, in those days I had some Vicodin left over from a surgery and that was the only way I was able to walk out of there. Fun times! 😁

[@LiveHardxLoveHard]

Haha that's a great story! Blisters on the first day is absolutely the worst. Now that I started wearing toe socks under my Darn Toughs, though, I never get them anymore! --A

[@embunchofnumbers]

@@LiveHardxLoveHardCool hack. Do you have to accommodate for shoe size? 🙏

[@LiveHardxLoveHard]

@@embunchofnumbers Yes the toe socks come in different sizes, but I have worn both large and extra large and both work fine for my size 13 feet. The large just take a little longer to put on.

[@4-SeasonNature]

Hardcore + hardcore. Love your videos and the hikes. Been to Rae Lakes twice. It's one of the most beautiful places in the Sierra Nevada.

[@LiveHardxLoveHard]

Yes! So glad to hear you've been there. Just out of curiosity -- did you also feel that it had a different energy than other places? Not in terms of just the beauty, but something else that you just kind of feel, and it feels amazing? We both think that it does, but aren't sure how to describe it in words. ❤️

[@YashaYakhnisPiano]

I did this one 4 years ago, out and back starting at Onion Valley. It was not easy, that's for sure. During the hike in, I made detours to Kearsarge Lakes, Bullfrog Lake, and Charlotte Lake. It was a little excessive with all the detours. But it was manageable. Driving home at 10:00 p.m. after the hike and after a hearty dinner at the Mt Whitney Restaurant was not manageable. Then two years ago, I day-hiked the 40-mile, clockwise loop from Road's End. I had a bear encounter before the hike, and stomach problems during the hike. It took me 18 hours, when it should only have taken 14 hours, if not for the stomach problems. The battle with nausea hiking up Glen Pass destroyed me. The nausea passed, but I was completely exhausted by the time it got dark. Those last 10 miles hiking down Bubbs Creek in complete darkness were brutal. I need to see Bubbs Creek in daylight. I gotta go back there. Kearsarge Pass and Rae Lakes are two of my favorite spots.

[@jacktesmer]

Would you recommend clockwise or counter-clockwise?

[@LiveHardxLoveHard]

Yasha that is awesome! You did the right thing by going to the other lakes. We were going to do the same thing on the way back if it hadn't thunderstormed, but even with the rain it was an incredible day!! ❤️

[@YashaYakhnisPiano]

​@@LiveHardxLoveHard Yes, if you have the time and energy, it's great to visit the other lakes. But it's already incredibly difficult just hiking to Upper Rae Lake and back, via the most direct route and without any detours. And the nausea I experienced on the Rae Lakes Loop ultramarathon day hike was from something I ate, and I know what it was. It normally would not have happened.

[@networkimprov]

The donkeys asked me to relay a message... next time bring carrots! Tho a pop-tart will do in a pinch ;-) Thank you for taking on this marathon excursion! \o/ -Liam

[@LiveHardxLoveHard]

Haha we really wanted to give the donkeys a snack, Liam! But didn't know if all the sugar in our packs would be good for them! ❤️

[@Twobarpsi]

30 miles and 7,000 feet of elevation gain! Wow you guys are tough 💪!! This is the most beautiful place on earth! The Sierras' beauty is breathtaking!

[@LiveHardxLoveHard]

Yes! We honestly feel like it is between the Sierra and the Alps for the most consistently beautiful hikes. I mean, there are thousands of square miles of Sierra, hundreds and hundreds of hikes, and they're all freaking spectacular! ❤️

[@larryowens2859]

We are so lucky to have this in our backyard, really a lifetime of adventures, great hike , you made it look easy, such a beautiful place thanks for sharing, Larry Owens

[@LiveHardxLoveHard]

Thanks Larry! That's what we were thinking the whole way -- just how freaking lucky we are to live here. It's great to have friends like you who know, and remind us by sharing your gratitude as well! ❤️

[@Heysaywhatnow]

Wow what a beautiful place. Great video guys!

[@LiveHardxLoveHard]

Thanks very much -- delighted to share this gorgeous place with you!! ❤️

[@julesvis]

The scenery - Awesome . You Two - Awsomer ! I know , prob not a word but seriously, doing that in a day ! Respect .

[@LiveHardxLoveHard]

Haha thanks Jules! We were pretty wrecked after this one, but as you say the awesome scenery and being able to share it with you guys made even a few painful days afterwards worthwhile. ❤️

[@seektruth707]

If you guys are in Colorado sometime, I really think you would like climbing the 14er Mount Sneffels and starting at Blue Lakes Trailhead, instead of Yankee Boy Basin, especially if you did the southwest ridge route instead of the standard route to the top. I just did it a couple weeks ago. It's pretty amazing. The blue lakes have an unreal turquoise appearance in person.

[@LiveHardxLoveHard]

Yes!!! We will be in Colorado a few times over the next couple years, and have Sneffels way up there on our list of hikes we want to do. Congrats on bagging that beauty, and thank you very much for the route recommendation -- I'm putting a note about it right now in our future-hikes list! ❤️

[@seektruth707]

@@LiveHardxLoveHard Awesome! I'm sure you guys would love it. I thought July was a good month to do it. There are a lot of wildflowers up there in July.

[@jchendrix]

Well done guys you did it!

[@LiveHardxLoveHard]

Thanks so much! Yes we are feeling really, really happy to have accomplished our two biggest summer goals already. But of course, that just means we gotta keep setting even bigger goals, and we've got some ideas! ❤️

[@paulproctor5555]

So glorious..thank you❤❤

[@LiveHardxLoveHard]

Thanks Paul! It is truly a miraculous place -- really delighted to share it with you. ❤️

[@laurahayes7722]

So beautiful! Thank you from Fresno! Did you really not see any humans on trail? Will you section hike the PCT or John Muir Trail? I’ll watch… 🥰

[@LiveHardxLoveHard]

Thanks Laura! The trail was very uncrowded most of the way. The only place we really ran into people was at the top of Glen Pass, where a lot of the backpackers sort of rest and congregate before continuing on. We will for sure do the JMT and film it for you guys. Maybe one day the PCT as well, though we'll have to see if our bodies can hold up to that level of through-hiking! ❤️

[@hindsfeetonhighplaces]

You guys do such an amazing job of showing natures, beauty, and using it as a backdrop for Elise’s beauty. Adam is definitely a lucky man.

[@LiveHardxLoveHard]

Aw thank you very much! And I'm lucky too -- I mean deep down, what woman could resist those waterfall shorts? ❤️ --E

[@kilozulu9990]

Beauty abound.

[@LiveHardxLoveHard]

Yes! It was truly a case where we could have just closed our eyes and turned on the camera and it would have been pointing at something beautiful. Every direction was gorgeous! ❤️

[@kblaine123]

National Geographics got nothing on you guys.....incredible footage as usual, thanks for the ride.

[@LiveHardxLoveHard]

Thanks so much! We were really happy that the footage turned out well, because it was SO stunning in person and we wanted to share that with you guys. Very glad you enjoyed! ❤️

[@davidolson558]

Thanks for providing this great video; I got Covid 2 days ago while rravet ack from kos Angeles to Denver international airport and while getting ready to board my flight, I had a dizzy spell due menierres disease... So paramedic was called and she said I should go to an ER.. luckily southwest airlines rescheduled me the next day for Free to MSP 😮

[@LiveHardxLoveHard]

Dave so sorry to hear about that -- what a scary experience! Are you feeling ok now? Really happy to hear that Southwest hooked you up like that -- that's the kind of service we need more of in the travel industry right now. ❤️

[@davidolson558]

@@LiveHardxLoveHard I'm feeling a lot better now and getting stronger each day! You guys Rock!

[@LiveHardxLoveHard]

@@davidolson558 That is wonderful to hear! Take care of yourself!! ❤

[@davidolson558]

@@LiveHardxLoveHard I will definitely be more aware of my health.. and as always, thanks for the kindness ❤️

[@marccaldw]

I love you guys , well done!

[@LiveHardxLoveHard]

Thanks so much, Marc! We love you guys too, and were really proud and excited to share this one with you. ❤️

[@matt_w]

Nice job guys! Gorgeous hike! And thanks for the beta :) I'm heading up there for CCW loop from Road's End in two weeks (fingers crossed no fires). Looks like Glen Pass is snow-free and the lakes are spectacular. Was it actually as deserted as it looked? How were bugs? What a great idea to do it as a day hike from Onion Valley! I tried to mark the lakes you passed on the way in. I think these are right? 0:00 Gilbert Lake 1:32 Big Pothole Lake 3:07 Bullfrog Lake 3:49 Unnamed (Lake 11263') 5:50 South Rae 8:28 Middle Rae

[@LiveHardxLoveHard]

You are right on the money, Matt, though I either didn't know or forgot the name of Big Pothole Lake -- thank you! Super excited to hear about your adventure up there after you do it. We had virtually no mosquito problems, but that was probably because we had to move so fast due to the afternoon thunderstorm. I remember when we did the four day version that they were a lot worse at the lower elevations, and the worst by far was day 4 coming back down to Road's end when you're really going through a heavily shaded, foresty area and they are everywhere. You will for sure want mosquito repellent for that! --A

[@kimmontenegro2258]

Impressive!

[@LiveHardxLoveHard]

Thanks Kim! We really loved this one, though definitely paid for it for a few days after! ❤️

[@KR-yc4ed]

magical place guys

[@LiveHardxLoveHard]

Magical is a good word! When Adam was talking about the energy of the place he wasn't kidding. There is something about it that is truly otherworldly. ❤️

[@sluggotinfantryman]

I also pulled up video of Gould Ridge to Dragon. Okay a little longer than I recalled. Maybe a lot. BUT you can see the lakes!

[@LiveHardxLoveHard]

We'll do that traverse, maybe even this summer! ❤️

[@YashaYakhnisPiano]

I do have another lake recommendation, if you haven't already seen it: Matlock Lake. It's a hidden gem off the Kearsarge Pass Trail, only 0.6 miles from Flower Lake.

[@LiveHardxLoveHard]

That is a fantastic recommendation, Yasha. We actually have done Matlock -- in fact we made a video of it at some point -- and loved it. It's also great for people who love these Sierra lakes but don't want to suffer too much to reach one. A real gem for sure!

[@YashaYakhnisPiano]

@@LiveHardxLoveHard Yeah, Matlock is only about 6 or 7 miles round trip. It's a very moderate day hike. It's also great for an overnight backpacking trip. When I was there, someone was camping by the lake. I just checked, it was the video titled, "All Alone in the Eastern Sierra" from November 2022. I forgot about that one.

[@garyleibitzke4166]

Hiking exposed ridges in a thunderstorm is always exciting.

[@LiveHardxLoveHard]

Haha a little more excitement than we'd bargained for given the mild forecast, but we've done enough Sierra hikes at this point that we were ready! ❤️

[@DavidHaney1]

❤ GR8 VID ~ LOVED IT ❤ That Rae Lake water looked COLD. What was the Onion Valley campground like and how is the road up to it?

[@LiveHardxLoveHard]

Thanks David! Ya the water was cold, but since it was so warm outside it honestly felt really good in there. The road was in great shape and the OV campground and parking lot were totally crowded. However, the trail was not crowded at all so not sure where everyone went! ❤️

[@aceyorba]

Great stuff. I hope your viewers realize how hard this trek is for a 1 Day hike. I'm sure you felt it for a few days.

[@LiveHardxLoveHard]

Oh my gosh you are right about that. Especially having to run from the storm that final few miles downhill toward the end, it didn't do either of our lower backs any favors and we had to take a full week off after. Still, it was all worth it to get back to Rae Lakes -- it is just absolutely magical there. ❤️

[@Bodikdereka]

Spectacular! And a bit of spicy at the end with those rolling thunderstorms... I know the feeling - it can be nasty trying to outrun the upcoming storm somewhere up there... but what is the issue with the permits in the US - it seems like there are no people there at all, why do you need a permit and even if you do why such a limited number if there is like nobody there anyway? Crazy!

[@LiveHardxLoveHard]

Thank you, and that's a really interesting question about permits. On the one hand, you are right -- because of the permit quota, we came across very few people on this hike. On the other hand, I think if there was no quota at all the place might be overrun with backpackers/campers, because it is incredibly special. For us, we never have luck with getting permits but that also makes it kind of fun to figure out ways to get around the permit problem, like doing the hike all in one day or doing it in the off-season when permits aren't required! ❤️

[@pjchosen]

Another awe inspiring trip! Did you ever find out who owned the donkeys? I wonder how the owner ever located them out there in the wilderness, and what did they eat, with so little grass up at that altitude?

[@LiveHardxLoveHard]

These are such good questions, and we were really hoping one of you guys would know and tell us! They obviously have those bells on them so the owners can find them, but I have no idea where the owners were or what the donkeys were eating up there! ❤️

[@sluggotinfantryman]

You can go in the the Mount Mary Austin way. Kearsarge Peak is also neglected. My favorite one creek no lake Pass is Taboose. Dragon Gould circle Golden Trout Lake. AND all these peaks except Dragon are not technical. University is the Beast of the area. Williamson aside.

[@robertcalonico8008]

Beautiful! Why is there vegetation around some lakes and not others? Great job outrunning the thunderstorm--love you guys.

[@LiveHardxLoveHard]

Love you pops! I wish I knew - maybe one of our plant experts will chime in. I wonder if you could ride those donkeys all the way to the lakes :)

[@robertcalonico8008]

@@LiveHardxLoveHard They were the best--and so random, right?

[@Tj-wz1sx]

Opppsssss 🎉 #kudos 😎

[@LiveHardxLoveHard]

Thank you! So nice to do these bucket list hikes!! ❤️

[@IvesvanderFlaas]

Awesome!

[@LiveHardxLoveHard]

Thanks Ives! It something we've dreamt of for a long time, and was wonderful to finally make it happen! ❤️

[@JamesHunter55]

...phenomenal as usual, you guys are so super human! Beautiful views and can you tell me what camera and mic system you use. Both are so crystal clear.

[@LiveHardxLoveHard]

Thanks James -- so glad you enjoyed! We use a GoPro 10 and an iPhone 14 for filming, and we made our own fuzzy little cover for the GoPro mic to minimize the wind noise since it can get very windy especially on those high mountain passes! ❤️

[@guidolandolt5949]

You 2 are animals, so much power WOW. I heard you left LA FOR the Mountains. Is it a secret? Congratulations!

[@LiveHardxLoveHard]

Yes Guido! We still come back to LA sometimes to visit, but we are fully nomadic now and mostly live in mountain towns. It is amazing, and without the altitude acclimation we'd never be able to do something like this! ❤️

[@andriiivasenko7345]

Beautiful views! How early you woke up for this hike? :)

[@LiveHardxLoveHard]

Thanks Andrii! We got up at 4:30 am for this one, and it's a good thing we did because that allowed us to get back before the thunderstorm really got bad! ❤️

[@SashaTibelius]

Interesting geological structures, crystal clear lakes. Have you seen any UAP (UFO) activity there?

[@LiveHardxLoveHard]

The lakes really are incredibly clear. We've never seen any kind of aerial activity up there, but have definitely read stories of it! ❤️

[@sluggotinfantryman]

You got Russell. Ripper. Marathon. Sick. That Beartooth trail is 26 miles. Just saying. Closer than France. Now you are stuck with Williamson Bowl. Shepherd. 3 days. 2 more 14ks.

[@LiveHardxLoveHard]

We are stoked on Williamson for sure! ❤️

[@cdawg9149]

Awesome

[@LiveHardxLoveHard]

Thank you! This one was truly memorable. ❤️

[@davidtate166]

The Serra Nevada is the beautiful mountain range in America.you to travel fast and light . John Muir in his time did mountain rambles like you to.and did not have high tech mountain gear ⚙️.

[@LiveHardxLoveHard]

Totally true, David! And you know that we keep it as light as possible too -- much more fun to go ultralight. ❤️

[@SnipetsofTime]

The donkeys were the highlight of the vid!

[@LiveHardxLoveHard]

Haha yes! We are such suckers for adorable animals -- it always makes our day! ❤️

[@petr-podrouzek]

SUPER !! 🙂

[@LiveHardxLoveHard]

Thanks Petr!! One of our favorite hikes in all of the Sierra!! ❤️

[@sergelainesse7893]

As usual Elise... When I get home 🤗

[@LiveHardxLoveHard]

Thank you Serge, so happy you're gonna see this one. It is one of the most beautiful places in the world, and so hard to get to in a day! ❤️

[@prowrestlingisart6742]

I've always wanted to ask - how challenging is it to start back up again on the hike after relaxing in the lake? I find it hard to get started going again. Muscles start to seize up and everything feels still. Do you have any tips? The lakes look stunning!

[@jacktesmer]

Could be becuase your heart rate drops significantly if you break for too long and takes awhile to get back up - take a shorter break

[@prowrestlingisart6742]

@@jacktesmer good advice, thank you!

[@LiveHardxLoveHard]

That's a super interesting question. For us it is much easier to start back up after going in the lake than after just sitting down in the warmth. Something about a good soak in ice cold water really revivifies us. Not sure exactly what the science of that is, but it keeps us feeling good and raring to go for about an hour or so even in the middle of a sufferfest (after that we need caffeine!). ❤️

[@prowrestlingisart6742]

@@LiveHardxLoveHard thank you for the advice! I appreciate it. I know pro athletes take ice baths so there is definitely something to the effects of cold water on muscles. I will need to try it and see how i works out....even if it is just being sprayed down with a hose haha

[@jacktesmer]

Nice work, seriously thats tough work 4 passes in one day! I'm trail running the loop outta roads end on 8/10, I think I'd rather do the extra 10 miles!

[@LiveHardxLoveHard]

Jack that's fantastic!! We ran into three guys that were running that loop and they were having the time of their lives. Very excited for you. Be careful if there's any lightning activity over Glen Pass, have the best time ever, and please let us know how it goes! ❤️

[@jacktesmer]

@@LiveHardxLoveHard It was incredible! A friend and I trail ran the loop counter-clockwise. Started at 5:30 finished at 10:30 with 3 hours of breaks. Saw 4 other trail runners doing single day - it sounds like this is getting more popular to do. Last 5 miles near mist falls was brutal to go down those steps. River crossing was knee high. Conditions were hot but manageable with timing, saw a few deer no bears or snakes unfortunately. Wasn’t too buggy. The Rae lakes were very pretty my favorite was upper Rae. If I ever backpack I’d like to check out gardiner basin and window peak lake.

[@tom6363]

Incredible trek. Do you guys carry filters for the abundant water available? Why doesn't Adam eat more nutritious snacks on the trail?

[@LiveHardxLoveHard]

Yes Tom, we always carry a filter so we can travel lighter by carrying less water if we know we'll be able to refill. Adam eats pretty healthy most of the time, but we both have found that sugary snacks on trail are really helpful for replacing glycogen on super long and hard hikes. On the easier hikes, however, he really has no excuse! ❤️

[@ronthompson338]

OK guys, this is very strange, but true! And then you have this new video posted today. OMG! Sometimes I see or sense things before they happen. Last night I had a scary dream and you two were in it along with other people in my past. You guys were running down a mountain trail and huge rocks were rolling down the mountain. I think there is going to be a major earthquake on the west coast sometime soon. I know this sounds crazy, but I have had premonitions before that scared me when they came true. Not trying to scare anyone, just telling you what I saw.

[@LiveHardxLoveHard]

Wow Ron that is wild, and so glad you put it down here in the comments so we can refer back to it if it does happen sometime soon! We definitely know that California is overdue for a big one, but hopefully we won't actually have to Indiana Jones our way down a mountain when it happens! ❤️

[@ronthompson338]

@@LiveHardxLoveHard I saw it again guys this weekend in Southern California. A 6.0 . It was much clearer than before! 😫

[@ronthompson338]

Hey guys, guess you might have felt that 4.4 quake. At least it was a small one. Guess I was off by one day. I will let you know if I have another premonition. Hope you are safe! Happy Hiking

[@albaamaya-cornejo4343]

I'm shocked at how much he loves pop tarts 🤣🤣

[@LiveHardxLoveHard]

Haha I know. To be fair, they are a good source of quick and easily digestible glycogen and we have a saying above 12,000 feet -- anything you CAN eat is a good thing to eat. ❤️

[@DannyW-uz5kl]

This is awesome! At 0:30, what kind of mapping imagery/software is that? It looks far better than the Google Earth I use!

[@LiveHardxLoveHard]

Thanks so much! We use Google Earth Pro, which definitely gives us a few more options than the regular one! ❤️