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Bishop's Peak Trail

San Luis Obispo, California

4.8/5
based on 5 reviews

Details

Distance

3.17 miles

Elevation Gain

928 ft

Route Type

Out-and-Back

Description

Added by Talia Touboul

Bishop's Peak Trail takes about 1-2 hours depending on your pace and leads to stunning 360 degree views of San Luis Obispo County.

Bishop's Peak is one of the most frequented hikes of the San Luis Obispo Area. With a 950ft elevation gain in an estimated 3 mile trek, the summit's peak rests at 1,559 feet. The hike is both demanding and rewarding - the panoramic views at the top of the nearby volcanic morros and San Luis Obispo City give breathtaking answers to those who seek its reward.

Bishop's Peak has the highest summit of the Nine Sisters. It is also a local hub for climbers. The massive boulders at the top provide climbers with anchor points. A great climbing opportunity for those who seek out a little more thrill from the peak.

For a rewarding beer and some great food afterwards, head to Morro Bay (Estimated 10-15 minute Drive) and checkout any of the Restaurants on Embarcadero (Morro Bay, CA 93442). You can enjoy your reward while you sit on the beautiful bay with stunning views of Morro Bay Rock.

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Features

Rock Climbing
Hiking
Dog Friendly
Easy Parking
Scenic

Bishop's Peak Trail Reviews

Very crowded because it's so close to Cal Poly. Great views and would recommend if visiting for the first time

Beautiful hike that overlooks all of San Luis Obispo. It's very popular among Cal Poly students!

It’s the most over-hiked trail in SLO and for good reason. It’s a great workout, is easy to access, and provides a fantastic view at the top. Beware of big (unreasonable) fines for hiking at night, but if you do and you don’t get caught it’s an amazing experience. For the risk-takers, there’s a big rock that jetties out from a cave somewhere at the top, and it makes for an excellent camping spot.

Set off from the trailhead under foggy and muddy conditions. The climb was a beast and my older dog needed some help scrambling over boulders on the way up. I logged 1.83 miles to the summit which was amazing. Fog rollin in from Morrow Bay and views almost to Pismo. The locals love this place - thanks for sharing!

This hike is busy at any time of the day or year. If you're in to climbing, bring your gear.

There's some fun intermediate bouldering at the peak

Leave No Trace

Always practice Leave No Trace ethics on your adventures and follow local regulations. Please explore responsibly!

Nearby

Bowden Ranch Trail

Eagle Rock Nature Trail

Mountain Bike Cuesta Ridge

Quarry and Park Ridge Trail Loop

Baywood Park & Pier

Bike or Run the Bob Jones Trail