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THREE HOUR RADIUS BACKPACK THE RAE LAKES LOOP A sampling of the Sierra's best can be found on the Rae Lakes Loop, a five-day, 45-mile hike accessed through King's Canyon National Park. Enjoy secluded meadows, granite peaks and mountain streams along the 7,OOO-foot ascent to a series of crystal-clear glacial lakes. Scoff at campers with pack-mules and thank God you made it to Glen Pass, which, at 11 ,978 feet, offers a dizzying 360-degree view of the Sierras and Mt Whitney. Camping sites are strategically spaced and equipped with bear boxes to prevent unwelcome visitors. Spending a night on beautiful Vidette Meadow is highly recommended. Register and get maps at the Ranger Station. It's a 460-mile round trip drive. Kings Canyon and Sequoia Main Line, 209-565-3341 . 3 FISH AND ROCK CLIMB IN OWENS VALLEY Owens Valley, nestled between the White and Sierra Nevada mountains, offers endless possibilities for all types of adventurers. Buy a fishing permit at Brock's Flyfishing Specialists (or any other sport ing goods store) and head off to Little Lakes Valley, where many of the lakes are teeming with brook and rainbow trout. Tour the world's largest landlocked sand dunes in Eureka Valley. Wild horses roam nearby. You can rent a tame horse at Pine Creek Saddle and Pack Trains (760-387-2797) for a guided tour. The area is rife with great rock climbing, though Owens River Gorge is the most popular. Route specifics and climbing equipment are available from Wilson's Eastside Sports (760-873-7520). If you just want to lug a backpack around, drop in at the Bishop Chamber of Commerce (800-367-6572) for maps of the numerous trails and canyons. Take route 14 to 395. PHOTO: ANTHONY SCOGGINS