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Fun and consistently steep trail up the iconic Bishop Peak. The variable surfaces are always well-maintained and fun.


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Map Key

2.0

Miles

3.1

KM

Point to Point

1,418' 432 m

High

362' 110 m

Low

1,114' 340 m

Up

58' 18 m

Down

11%

Avg Grade (6°)

35%

Max Grade (19°)

Dogs Leashed

Features Spring · Views

Description

The Summit Trail starts at the Patricia Dr. Trailhead, which has more parking and is less crowded than its Highland Drive counterpart. The trailhead is obvious, has an information kiosk and a bike rack.

Unlike most trails in the area, Summit Trail free from small scree. However, there are large boulders that make for some cool scrambling and fun downhill efforts. There are great views of Montaña de Oro and Moro Bay at the top and inversions are common in the winter and spring. This is the best trail in the area so it can get crowded during the weekends.

The first quarter mile is a gravel service road. At the fork with Felsman Loop Connector bear left onto singletrack trail and hit
some fun switchbacks for another quarter mile until reaching the cattle pond. Bear right around the cattle pond and head for the water tower, being careful to follow signs at intersections. After the water tower continue to bear left and continue through a gate and back onto singletrack trail. This section is rolling and takes your through a well-shaded oak grove and past a popular climbing destination. At the one mile point the trail begins to climb again, becomes exposed, and becomes populated with large rocks. Continue another 0.8 miles up well graded switchbacks to the summit.

Contacts

Land Manager: City of San Luis Obispo

Shared By:

Chris Fa

Trail Ratings

  4.5 from 2 votes

#9355

Overall
  4.5 from 2 votes
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Trail Rankings

#853

in California

#9,355

Overall
3 Views Last Month
348 Since Apr 28, 2018
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Photos

Sunrise breakfast on the summit.
Jan 21, 2016 near San Lui…, CA
Early morning view of Laguna Lake from the summit.
Jan 21, 2016 near San Lui…, CA
Evening hike: four-legged hiker.
Jan 21, 2016 near San Lui…, CA
Cerro San Luis peeks through the clouds from Bishop Peak.
Jun 27, 2017 near San Lui…, CA

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Check-Ins

Jan 16, 2021
Sophia Barwegen
Dec 15, 2020
Sophia Barwegen
Nov 29, 2019
Frieder Bluemle
3.7mi — 2h 05m
Oct 13, 2018
Jon Dilworth
Classic Cal Poly trail, a must do 2mi
Aug 16, 2018
Brett S
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