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    Bishop Peak

    4.6 (173 reviews)

    Bishop Peak Photos

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    Sandy L.

    This was a tough but rewarding hike. I went with a group of friends and it was so much fun. I was able to climb to the peak of the rock. It was a little over 4 miles round trip and we started from the trailhead at Patricia Dr. Bring good grip shoes,their is lots of rocks and borders especially of you plan to climb to the peak.

    Sabs and Willow having some pizza at the peak.
    Patrick A.

    Great autumn hike with family and our dog. We parked on Patricia and it was about 4 miles total with over 1,000 feet of climbing. It was harder than I thought based on the reviews here but we had no issues - but we hike a lot. Lot of rock hopping at the top but nothing too tricky. Our medium dog needed a hand on a few of them. I would've worn hiking shoes instead of trail runners because a little stiffer shoe would've been nice on all those rocks. It's mostly exposed with little shade through most of the climb. We went through plenty of water even though it was only in the 70s and we started around 8 am. Lots of dogs on the trail, mostly unleashed but well behaved.

    Hiking time!
    Ivory B.

    Bishop Peak is the tallest of the Nine Sisters. Once you reach to the top, a 360-degree view of the area is amazing from the summit. There is a vast view from Islay Hill in Edna Valley to Morro Rock. It's a moderate hike- easy to a bit difficult. The steep climb from the Foothill trailhead to the main trail will last for about a mile at the beginning. It's about 4 miles round trip. Once on the main trail, it levels off a bit, but it's still a serious climb to the top. There's one bench near the top and gathering area just below the summit. If you are up for an adventure, you must have the best views, then climb like a spider over a handful of large boulders to reach the summit. The spectacular view is totally worth all the hard work so bring some treats to reward yourself. I enjoyed the hike and love the view. Highly recommend it!

    Ed T.

    This review is for Bishop Peak Trail from Highland Drive Trailhead which was a ~3.3 miles round trip that took ~2 hour to complete. Steady inclines to the peak with nice views of the surroundings of San Luis Obispo. Trail becomes narrow as you climb towards the peak. Some parts of the trail were rocky. Limited parking spots on the side of the street. Short video of the hike for those interested! https://youtu.be/L80lgBfb584

    Great trail
    Marc H.

    Great Rocky trail hike. Take plenty of water. 80% of the trail is in the sun. Great activity for the fam to do.

    Chris C.

    I have hiked Bishop peak 10+ times throughout my time attending Cal Poly and my yearly visits to relive the great times in SLO. If you are in the area and are thinking of hiking or just trying to find something to pass the time, then look no further, hiking Bishop Peak is the answer! Difficulty - The hike isn't too long (around 3.5 miles out and back), but get ready to hike at a decent elevation. I would rate this as a moderate-level hike. Expectations: -Great Views at the top -A lot of sun on the side of the mountain -A cool rock climbing-esque section at the top to get on top of the peak Watching the sunrise while at the top is a great experience!

    Irena S.

    Have hiked this peak 2x and both times it's probably one of the best views, best workouts, and best hikes out there in SLO. Pros: - Great view at the top - especially if you're ok with climbing rocks a little more risky. Actually great view throughout the hike even - KILLER workout - you will be sore the next day! - Lots of green along the way - Clear trail, nothing ambiguous - Close to downtown - Easy parking in the residential area at the trailhead - Much of the trail is shaded! Still besti n the early morning though Cons: - gets super crowded at the top, so not as romantic as you would hope haha. Also just be safe and careful! There is a very sad sign along the trail about a college student who passed away after falling from the mountain a decade or so ago.

    Bishop Peak
    Renee N.

    We really enjoy the central coast of California. One of our favorite get aways is the town of San Luis Obispo. We visited this summer and this time we made sure to complete a couple of hike's in the area. We got up fairly early for this hike and found our way to it's beginning point at Highland Drive. This is a residential area but there is plenty of parking along the street. Be sure to not park/ block people's driveways. Bishop Peak is the tallest peak of the nine sisters. It gets its name from the summit looking like a bishops miter. The summit is 1,559 feet and the views at the top are panoramic. Total mileage for the hike is 3.5 miles and elevation gain is 950 feet. We headed up the trail and passed through an oak forrest and a cattle pond. Once you are past this point, the climb continues through another forrest filled with more bay and oak trees giving you a nice break from the sun. The hike wraps around the mountain which provides you better and better views as you climb. Be aware that you are completely exposed to the sun for the remainder of the hike. Before you know it, you have made it to the top, but not without some hard work and effort. We were definitely sweating since it was August and the hike is challenging at the end. At the top, everywhere you looks is a gorgeous sight and we were able to see all over SLO, Cal Poly campus, Lake Laguna, and the Santa Lucia mountains. There are a couple of benches to sit at or you can continue to scramble around the rocks for better views. This was definitely one of the best hikes I completed in 2019 and I would say do it and enjoy! I would recommend completing on a weekday for less crowds.

    Spencer Q.

    This was the second place I hiked in the area. A nice hike up with some spectacular views from the top.

    Bigong M.

    This hike was more of spontaneous decision! We weren't so sure how this hike was going to be and I definitely enjoyed it! On the California hiking list it's deemed as moderate and it sure is! If you have a bad knee it's a lot of stepping up going up and then a lot of impact on the knee going down. So just be careful! We definitely enjoyed the bottom part where the trees are located it was such a nice area to walk at. When you get to the top there's a lot of area where you need to climb or shimmying yourself to climb. Be careful if you're afraid of heights. Unfortunately we did not get far along as my other half has a fear of heights. Next time! Would definitely recommend this for visitors who are avid hikers!

    Matthew L.

    Came here for the first time and was amazed by the surrounding beauty of SLO! Bishop Peak has always been on my bucket list of hikes, especially after having lived in the Central Coast. Finally got to do it and it was well worth the 2 or so hours back and forth. My friend and I took the Highland Drive trail entrance, which was a good starting point as it wasn't too steep. Also, parking can be found in the nearby neighborhood, albeit somewhat limited closer to the trailhead. My friend and I had to park quite a way's away from the trailhead, which was quite a steep incline -- more steep than the actual trail in my opinion! As you ascend Bishop Peak, you'll be simply amazed the the lush greenness and rolling fields that surrounds the peak. For us, the greenness was more apparent at the bottom of the peak as it was a cloudy day. Higher up, we couldn't see much of the landscape. It took my friend and a little over an hour to get to the summit. The trail up to the summit in general is relatively flat between switchbacks, although parts are rocky. On a wet day, the rocks could be slippery! At the summit, you'll be greeted by a bench that says it's the end of the trail. But as we humans are curious, most folk went beyond the bench to explore the awesome rocks and boulders. It can be a little precarious navigating the rocks and boulders. I had a hard time figuring out the best path to traverse, but eventually I found a safe way up and down some of the boulders. It was scarier coming down from the rocks than going up. I'd say it's relatively safe up on top given that many Cal Poly students hang out up on the uppermost rocks/boulders. My best advice? Be careful (and have fun!). While the weather wasn't the best (it was cloudy) on my hike up Bishop Peak, I still got some glimpses of some amazing views from time to time. It was probably a blessing in disguise as it wasn't too hot with the sun's heat being shielded by the clouds. I would like to come back on a sunny day and enjoy some of those beautiful views up on top. 5 stars!

    Sandeep R.

    This place provides the best views of the SLO landscape and is probably mentioned on every single SLO blog out there. We followed the map on AllTrails and were able to complete the hike within 2 hours..It's worth calling out that the hike gains an elevation of 1100 ft over 2 miles but is entirely doable with a good pair of hiking shoes.. The latter part of the hike needs you to go through a paved path on boulders

    Top of summit
    Nick F.

    Fantastic hike! Parked by the Highland entrance, took the Summit Trail. Started the incline in the shade but eventually broke away to open sunlight so might want to bring the sunscreen. The trail was great, big rocks making it fun to hop from and narrow pathways at times. Wasn't too crowded, got passed by some joggers. Loved the end where you had to actually climb the rocks to make it to the very top but definitely not for everyone (sorry to my gf, had to leave her behind at tht point). What an amazing 360 view of SLO. Little tricky climbing down back to the benches so to take your time/recommend shoes with good traction. Overall, great hike, will do again.

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    Page 1 of 5

    Ask the Community - Bishop Peak

    Review Highlights - Bishop Peak

    Bring water and dress light, there is a dog bowl at the top but it is usually empty so bring your dog water too.

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    Big Falls Trail

    Big Falls Trail

    5.0(2 reviews)
    10.6 mi

    As of Oct 17, 2020 this place is still temporarily closed due to the El Dorado fire…read more The road leading to the trailhead may close seasonally. Please DO NOT park in undesignated spots as you are likely to get towed. Adventure Pass or National Parks Pass is required for entry. Due to many search and rescue situations in the past, hikers may not venture past the waterfall at the end of this route. There is a large parking lot at the trailhead with BOTH free and PAID parking. The gravel lot to the left is free. The lined spots require a day pass which you can purchase at the general store a few miles down the road. Making it to the very top requires a little scrambling and rock climbing, but its doable. So many places to relax and enjoy nature. Overnight camping is no longer allowed, but if you want to hang out for the day and set up a little picnic there are spots and bathrooms. Upper Big Falls is currently closed until 5/21/21 due to public safety. The closure is from the observation deck up to the waterfalls itself. Do not hike or climb past the observation deck. Forest Adventure Pass Daily Pass--Costs: $5 per dayForest Adventure Pass Annual Pass--Costs: $30 Annually Forest headquarters 602 So. Tippecanoe Ave San Bernardino Ca 92408 Tel no (909) 382 2682 (800)735 2922

    We decided to come here for a hike, we drove like 50 minutes from AG. The rode goes up a mountain…read morethen descents towards a series of creek passings (about 18). Luckily we took a pick up truck because the creek water level in some of them were about 3ft deep. No 4x4 is needed but definitely helps, car height is more important. When we actually got to the end of the road we went on a hike crossing a couple more creeks. When just about made it to the falls it was tough to get down if your a inexperienced hiker or kid. You have to climb down with a rope, pretty sketchy.. We just decide to hang out at one of the creeks we crossed by foot, very tranquil.

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    Big Falls Trail - Entrance

    Entrance

    Big Falls Trail
    Big Falls Trail

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    Pirate's Cove - Cave where you can see the ocean and cliffs.

    Pirate's Cove

    4.2(107 reviews)
    8.6 mi

    Ended up taking the long route to Pirate's Cove (parked near homes and took the trail) which we…read morelater found out is the Shell Beach Bluff Trail. We enjoyed this scenic trail, which had multi-million dollar homes to our right, and the beautiful ocean to our left; and a somewhat steep incline up to the dirt parking lot and Cave Landing trailhead. Good thing the weather was perfect and there was a lovely breeze; otherwise I would've stopped walking and demanded to go back to the car. Once we got to the trail, it was a fairly easy short walk to get to the cave. After taking in the stunning views from the cave, we trekked to the cove. Be cautious going down, as it's a steep dirt path and a couple flights of stairs. Also note that clothing is optional, and you may run into people in their birthday suits on this secluded beach.

    While visiting SLO, I was looking for an ocean hike to complete and found this hike on All Trails…read moreso I went for it. I took the long way traversing through a million dollar neighborhood of gorgeous homes lining the street. Once I was in the dirt I could see the cove from above. The beach is beautiful and not crowded. Of course, clothing is optional but I didn't come for the beach. I came to see the cove. You have to hike down to the cove as it sits on the water, but no biggie. Hiking back up and out for some may be challenging for some so just go at your own pace. When I arrived there was a guy playing a guitar so that was nice, not too many peeps around which allowed me to take a couple of pics. The cove itself is picturesque but the graffiti sucks!! Why must people have to paint on rocks in nature?? I just don't get it!! Go paint on abandoned buildings etc. I stayed for a few minutes then I walked out on the rocks and took in the views of the mighty Pacific Ocean. So gorgeous! I could have sat there all day. You can also access this cove and beach by driving directly to it and then following the path down to it, but I preferred the mini hike instead. Remember to Leave No Trace always.

    Photos
    Pirate's Cove - Pirates Cove Beach in Avila.

    Pirates Cove Beach in Avila.

    Pirate's Cove
    Pirate's Cove

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    Poly Canyon Trail

    Poly Canyon Trail

    4.6(15 reviews)
    2.9 mi

    Visiting SLO and my wife heard about this trail. I checked online on how to access...unfortunately…read morethe article was from 5 years ago and seemed to be outdated. Make sure you have plenty of time as there is quite a bit to see. We had a little over an hour and weren't able to see everything. We parked at the parking village drive parking garage, which was $10. There are 2 trails that head to the entrance arch shown in the picture..the first we ran across connected to the living quarters as was a narrow trail in the grass leading to the woods. This is a tad more challenging as the other trail is a gravel road with a slight incline and this route is a small path through the woods ( incline, decline, over branches and roots, etc). After about 14 mins it connects the gravel travel. To access from the gravel trail start from the parking garage opposite of the parking garage entrance there is a sidewalk path leading to a bridge, cross the bridge and you'll be on your way. Immediately, we saw some horses wandering around and crossing us on the trail. They were calm and a pleasant surprise. I won't post much of our photos, but there are lots of interesting structures that gave me a burning man feel. Lots of graffiti too, not sure if that is welcome or just vandalism. This was a nice change of pace trail and I would recommend.

    If you've heard of the Architecture Graveyard, this is the way to get there! Other reviews have…read moregood directions but I highly recommend going on a weekend so you don't have to worry about finding parking. There's also a parking garage that isn't too far, in addition to the nearby staff lots. Trail is a fire road, and occasionally there are cars/trucks on it, so stay aware. You'll eventually come to a route to your right with a bridge for a hidden trail, but keep going to the left to get to the graveyard - plan to spend an hour or two if you really want to wander around and see all the structures. The trail itself is shady, but several of the projects are out in the open - take sunblock and water, and use common sense. For better or worse, most of the architecture displays are run-down, broken, and/or vandalized with graffiti - it lends a cool dystopian vibe to the area but it's a shame that the university let them get so damaged. Still cool to explore, though, stop by to take a look and get in some steps on a nice day!

    Photos
    Poly Canyon Trail - Entrance

    Entrance

    Poly Canyon Trail
    Poly Canyon Trail

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    Sycamore Crest Trail - You'll have to cross over the bridge to get to the trailhead

    Sycamore Crest Trail

    4.4(16 reviews)
    8.5 mi

    I hiked Sycamore Crest Trail in late July. The weather was pleasant--high 70s--but unfortunately,…read moreonce we reached the top, ocean fog completely blocked the views. Total bummer since the panoramic photos I'd seen online were what drew me in. The trail itself was tougher than expected. AllTrails listed it as kid-friendly, but I definitely wouldn't take my 4-year-old on this hike. The way up is a steady incline that really works your calves (be ready for some breaks), and the way down was surprisingly slippery due to loose gravel--even with solid hiking shoes. It's not dangerous, just tricky in spots, and you'll want to watch your footing. Overall, it's a nice enough trail, but I wouldn't call it "easy." It's one of those hikes I might try again on a clearer day just to catch that view--but in my opinion, there are much better hikes in California. For example, Point Lobos was easier and had way better views. Bottom line: manage your expectations, don't bring young kids, unless they are older kids and check the fog forecast before you go!

    This a fun, short hike up to a great and vantage view point of Avila Bay and Port San Luis. I was…read morechecking the Sycamore Mineral Springs resort out and saw this trail and decided to go for it. Total mileage out and back is only 1.5 miles but it's a great workout. It was a pretty warm day and I worked up a sweat pretty quickly. Definitely steep but I appreciated the climb. I made it up to the top pretty fast so I was all happy with myself. The elevation gain is quick so be prepared. Lots of pretty views going up but at the top by far is the best. I loved all the gorgeous oak trees that provided some much needed shade along the trail. Once you are at the top, the view is pretty epic and you will want to linger. I could see the Pismo Dunes to my left and the beautiful bay and Port San Luis to my right. Should you desire to continue your hike then head left hike along the Ontario Ridge. Just can't beat the Central Coast of California!

    Photos
    Sycamore Crest Trail
    Sycamore Crest Trail - Finally found the trailhead- inside Sycamore Mineral Springs Resort

    Finally found the trailhead- inside Sycamore Mineral Springs Resort

    Sycamore Crest Trail

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    Irish Hills trails

    Irish Hills trails

    5.0(2 reviews)
    3.2 mi

    A fun jaunt amongst hike-lovers. The terrain is reasonably safe, with lots of mud and cow pies…read more During these atmospheric rivers, I'd urge you to wear, at minimum, mid-height water proof hiking shoes. Bring water, because there will be lots of beautiful sun exposure. Great spots to take pictures of the rolling green hills against a cloud lit backdrop and the historic Waddell Ranch Estate. Will return with the kid's and plan to hike the entire loop. (As long as the crest side isn't fully flooded.)

    What a great location…read more First, it couldn't be easier to find as it is at the end of Madonna Road (at Devaul Ranch Rd) in between two houses, with Laguna Lake Park across the street. Residential parking is easy to find. You can even watch someone's TV while you stretch. Second, there is a variety of hikes. Check the a map out front. Take a picture of that. You will have some forks and decisions to make and that will help. We climbed UP the Maricopa trail. The first half is a steady incline under a shady canopy. Shady in both senses of the word: a) it shields you from the sun, b) it's a sneaky place for a mountain lion to hide. You will cross some teeny-tiny bridges. The second half is under the sun. There are at least three stretches steeper than 45 degrees, so stretch first. We made it to the fork and decided to go down. We were close to the 600' elevation gain, or so I'd like to think. I'm mid-40s with premature arthritis and I'm 20-30% heavier than I should be, so it wasn't too hard, but I didn't want to push it. We went down King trail. King trail has no shade as it zigs and zags through an open meadow of knee-high fire bait. That will do a number on your calves. The decline is much more consistent that the Maricopa, and is longer. You could go UP the King and DOWN the Maricopa, but I feel Maricopa's uneven terrain is better suited for climbing. Plus, going up the King, backwards in my eyes, you would be zagging and zigging.

    Photos
    Irish Hills trails - Our new friend, Elva, is a local that guided us to this trail and kept an astounding pace. Thanks for the good times!

    Our new friend, Elva, is a local that guided us to this trail and kept an astounding pace. Thanks for the good times!

    Irish Hills trails - The perfect rainbow

    The perfect rainbow

    Irish Hills trails - At the end of Madonna Road, or 1600 Devaul Ranch, or Laguna Lake Park, if you need to GPS it.

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    At the end of Madonna Road, or 1600 Devaul Ranch, or Laguna Lake Park, if you need to GPS it.

    Bishop Peak - hiking - Updated May 2026

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