Hike To Bishop Peak | San Luis Obispo, CA

Some call it Bishop’s Peak, others call it Bishop Peak, but regardless this mountain is the most sought after summit in San Luis Obispo. Bishop Peak is the highest peak of the Morros or “Nine Sisters”, best known for its iconic rocky crown shaped like a bishop’s miter. Not only do local hikers flock to this peak, students at Cal Poly San Luis Obispo consider hiking this trail a rite of passage. Climbers also make their way to Bishop Peak to boulder. Whether you are looking to take in the spectacular views of San Luis Obispo from 1,559 feet above sea level or partake in some serious climbing, Bishop Peak is the trail for you.

There are two ways to access the Bishop Peak Trail. One trailhead begins on Patricia Drive and the other is a neighborhood access point at the end of Highland Drive. I will be covering the trailhead at Patricia Drive as this is the best access point in terms of parking and is slightly easier.

The hike from Patricia Drive is a moderate 4.4-mile roundtrip journey. The trailhead starts as a wide dirt path climbing west uphill to a fenced gate. This is where you will enter the Ferrini Open Space. At the curve in the road, turn left onto a narrow trail just after a short stretch of pavement. Stay on the paved road will lead uphill to a water tank, and the Felsman Loop Trail, which will loop you back to intersect with the trail.

The Felsman Loop Trail is 2.7 miles. If you wish to take the loop, you can explore the lower reaches of Bishop Peak and extend your hike. If not, continue forward on the trail.

Next you will encounter several switchbacks through open oak woodland. The trail then emerges into an open area near a seasonal cattle pond. Follow the main trail uphill to another cattle gate, where a marked “Bishop Peak Trail” sign branches left. The trail proceeds through a shaded forest, passing a popular rock climbing area where you can catch a glimpse of daredevils enjoying their sport. You will now be on the south side of Bishop Peak.

Follow another series of switchbacks leading up to the saddle between the west and east summits of the peak. At the saddle, a bench will come into view that marks the “end” of the journey. Disregard this bench and continue further towards the east (and slightly lower) summit. You will need to scramble over a short section of sandstone boulders to reach the top of the peak. This is where the true end of the hike, where you can take in breathtaking views of the entire San Luis Obispo area, including Cerro San Luis Obispo to the east.

Watching the sunset at the top of Bishop Peak

Bishop Peak Trail Tips

Tip 1: The sign for the Patricia Drive Trailhead is not visible from the road. Park along the street and be careful not to block a private driveway.

Tip 2: This trail is very popular with local hikers and students alike. Do not expect much solace if you will be hiking this trail on a weekend.

Tip 3: If you will be bouldering, exercise extreme caution. There have been a number of fatalities in this area over the years.

Tip 4: For a longer hike, take the 2.7 mile Felsman Loop trail and explore the lower reaches of Bishop Peak.

Tip 5: Try to time your hike to arrive at Bishop Peak at sunrise or sunset. You won’t be disappointed.

Tip 6: For a better workout take the Foothill entrance. Be careful coming downhill on this path as there are many areas with loose gravel.

Tip 7: Plan about 2 hours round trip to complete this hike. Plan a little extra time if you will be eating a snack or taking in the views at the top.

Tip 8: Near the end of the trail you’ll see a bench etched with the words “end of trail.” Don’t be deceived. The hike continues past this point, scaling giant boulders to reach what is truly the peak.

My little sister modeling at the top of Bishop Peak

Directions to Trailhead (courtesy of Summit Post ): From San Luis Obispo head west toward Los Osos on Foothill Blvd. Turn Right on Patricia Drive and just after Patricia Court, the trailhead is on the left. As a courtesy to neighbors, please park on the Bishop Peak side (west) of Patricia Drive away from homes.