Bishop Peak Trail - 8/18/13

Bishop's Peak Trail - 08182013 (2), originally uploaded by kimberzy.

Bishop Peak is the tallest of the nine "sisters" (or Morros) in San Luis Obispo County, at an elevation of 1546 feet at the peak. The trail is 2.0 miles one way to the top of the peak, with an elevation gain of 950 feet (from the Highland Drive trailhead). The trail is rated as moderate to strenuous, depending on who you ask. I found the trail to be hard, but not too hard.

I started the trail from the Patricia Drive side, as there was no parking available at the trailhead starting at Highland Drive. The Patricia Drive trailhead begins at a slightly lower elevation, so you have to work a bit harder to climb from here. Beginning the trail from here adds another .2 miles and a little more elevation gain.

Bring water! This is essential, as even if the temps are in the low to mid 70's, there is very little shade. Sturdy hiking boots are also recommended as there are many steep and rocky sections on the trail. I would not advise people to climb the peak in flip flops: you will fall. Dogs are permitted on the trail, but no bicycles are allowed. Also, there is quite a bit of poison oak, especially in the lower parts of the trail. It is best to arrive early, especially if you want to start the hike from Highland Drive, as there is very little parking there. There is also a lot of traffic on the trail, as it is a very popular trail.

All in all, it was a great hike, with some truly awesome views. I will surely return to do this hike again. Although, this time, I may refrain from drinking red colored Gatorade. When I got back to my car and looked in the mirror, my lips and teeth were bright red. No wonder people were looking at me funny!!! LOL

Happy trails!

Directions to Trailhead (from the Sierra Club Website): From San Luis Obispo head west toward Los Osos on Foothill Blvd. Turn Right on Patricia Drive. Head straight until you reach the stop sign at Highland Drive. Continue straight for 1/4 mile. On the left you will see three black post blocking an open driveway, and a sign "TRAIL" marking the entrance. As a courtesy to neighbors, please park on the Bishop Peak side (west) of Patricia Drive away from homes.