The two things you must be aware of are bears and cold weather. The first day, we followed the red track from South Lake over Bishop Pass and down to Dusy Basin. The first couple miles of the trail were mostly clear of snow, and any crowds dissipated as thick snow became more common. Trail head is visible with amazing views of South Lake while hiking up the trail. Bishop has a hostel, several motels and a big grocery store. As you gain altitude the scenery just gets better. Once you get out of your car and throw on your daypack or backpack you are in for an incredible adventure. Though it was fun romping through the snow, in retrospect we should have brought gaiters and snowshoes. Toward Le Conte Canyon. Getting there is an adventure in itself. Remember you need a permit so you will probably have to stop at Bishop Ranger Station (a.k.a. The trail to Bishop Pass is one of the great hikes on the southeast side of the Sierras. Total mileage was 17.5 and 3,800 ft gain. The second half of the ascent to the pass is where the real challenge begins (especially if there is still snow hanging around), but those who summit the pass at 11,972 feet are rewarded with striking views of the Eastern Sierra. Starting out, at South Lake trail head. Enjoy! The Trailhead for Bishop Pass - is the access trail for attempts on the northwest side of Starlight Peak. Rita and Samson. The first couple miles of the trail were mostly clear of snow, and any crowds dissipated as thick snow became more common. You drive to Bishop, California on Hwy 395. Look for the herd of deer that got caught in an avalanche or rock slide on the switchbacks near the top. Leave more time than you think, we didn’t make it all the way to the top of Bishops pass and turned around at the base of the switchbacks. Fun day hike. The trail uses switchbacks to climb toward Long Lake. We also had a pretty windy night the first night in Dusy Basin, so make sure to check that and find a site that isn't so exposed. This is the version of our website addressed to speakers of English in the United States. Agassi. Show 4 More Check-Ins Jul 7, 2018 Tilman Giese. My GPS says 11 miles and 2600 ft gain. If you're traveling with people I would drop off packs at the top with your buddies and have someone volunteer to park and *hopefully* hitch a ride with someone going up. The other trail goes to Treasure Lakes. As you continue you’ll pass Saddlerock Lake and Bishop Lakes – both quieter places to stop and take a break and reenergize … more. The trail flattens as it winds through a forest of aspens and lodgepole pines. Incredible fishing! We came down from the pass at the end of the North Lake - JMT - South Lake Loop, and it was a spectacular last day. Difficulty: Moderate Day Hike. Once you get to the ‘end point’ that the trail gps takes you, go a little off route and hike up to the peak (it’s close). However, the best views (in my opinion) come into view as the trail drops into Dusy Basin and the main section of the Palisades come into view, which is one of the most stunning subranges within the Sierra Nevadas. Would highly recommend this for anyone trying to get a nice day hike in with substantial miles and elevation gain! We saw several other cars leave shortly after, so I guess this could be an option, unreliable one. The trailhead parking was completely full around noon, so please arrive early. The trail to Bishop Pass is one of the great hikes on the southeast side of the Sierras. It gets cold at night. Little Lakes Valley to Gem Lakes. Woods Creek Trail to Kearsarge Pass Trail ... Bishop Pass at LeConte Canyon to Kearsage Pass Trail. Approximately 14 miles up, you'll want to merge left towards South Lake. This is … Once you reach the summit (11,972 feet), you are rewarded with views of the vast and beautiful basin below. The highest lakes are are found at the foot of Mt.Thompson and Mt.Goode. This is a busy trail. Though it was a holiday weekend, the trail wasn't too popular due to the snowy conditions. Such a fun trail!! The Shepherd Pass trailhead is near Independence, California, which is south of Bishop. Took us 4 hr 18 min including breaks and photo ops. We probably go within half a mile/a mile before deciding to turn around due to snow depth and not knowing exactly where the trail was. You will need to get a hitch into Bishop at the trailhead, which might be tricky depending on the day use of the trailhead. Is this a place or activity you would suggest for, Would you recommend this place or activity to a friend looking for an, Is this a must-do if you are traveling with a, Is this a romantic place or activity that you would suggest for, Is this a place or activity you would go to on a. Don’t be surprised if you encounter a number of fishermen and women at Long Lake, which is about 2 miles from the Trailhead. Bishop Pass Topographic Map, hiking trail near Bishop, California. The popular (and sometimes busy) trail to Bishop Pass is steep and slightly rocky, making it more enjoyable for seasoned hikers. 6/10 - Middle Fork Road is open. It’s SO worth it, extremely beautiful!! we walked to long lake and the trail was ok. more steps than my knee likes but a lovely view and just a fine walk in the Sierras. Also another point to start early :) Camping in Dusy Basin with Isosceles Peak, Columbine Peak, and Knapsack Pass in the background. Epic trail, all but one lake was frozen. Bishop Pass Trail is one of the most popular routes in the Eastern Sierras that offers great views of beautiful alpine lakes and can be done as a day hike or backpacking trip, depending on the extent of your trip. Despite gaining over 2,000 feet in elevation, the climb felt pretty gradual. The six mile trail to Bishop Pass offers fantastic views nearly all the way, encountering six lakes together with many ponds, streams and floral meadows, and ending by traversing a rocky slope above the final lake (Bishop) and climbing steeply to a saddle along the Sierra Crest at 11,972 feet, below the west face of Mt Agassiz. Climbing toward Agassiz (left) and Bishop Pass (hidden). The trail leads through a succession of beautiful lake basins to a high pass on the Sierra Crest, along the way enjoying great views of Hurd Peak, Mount Goode, the Inconsolable Range and Mount Agassiz. Great hike! I’m guessing about 13-14 miles in and out but it was a good hike. https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/california/bishop-pass-trail The trail starts at South Lake trailhead and climbs to the valley between the Inconsolable Range and Hurd Peak. In the spring and early fall the temperature will go below freezing. The trail to Bishop Pass climbs a series of granite benches, each holding lakes and ponds. Did Bishop Pass Trail during Memorial Day weekend in 2018. Wilderness Trails. Plenty of water and shade for the first part of the hike. Hike to the rock that sort of looks like Pride Rock (from the Lion King). The trail to Bishop Pass is one of the great hikes on the southeast side of the Sierras. Backpackers hike the Bishop Pass Trail out of Dusy Basin into Le Conte Canyon on a two-week trek of the Sierra High Route in Kings Canyon National Park in California. You now have the option to continue on and cross the pass to descend into Dusy Basin and LeConte Canyon where the trail eventually meets the John Muir Trail. Lake after lake after lake. Head up the hill to the right of the pass to get a spectacular view of the lakes below. Foothills. The trail leads through a succession of beautiful lake basins to a high pass on the Sierra Crest, along the way enjoying great views of Hurd Peak, Mount Goode, the Inconsolable Range and Mount Agassiz. Beautiful vista points from beginning to end. There we checked in and left Dennis and Mary to enjoy the afternoon. There is no overnight parking at the trailhead and you'll have to park in a dirt parking lot about 2 miles away. Over Bishop Pass is the backcountry of Kings Canyon National Park, with the trail continuing to Dusy Basin and LeConte Canyon where it meets the John Muir Trail. Bishop Pass Trail is a 16.1 kilometer heavily trafficked out and back trail located near Bishop, California that features a lake and is only recommended for very experienced adventurers. However, the best views (in my opinion) come into view as the trail drops into Dusy Basin and the main section of the Palisades come into view, which is one … Highly recommend. Trail will split about a mile, the other trail takes you to Treasure Lakes but stay on the Bishop Pass trail. Though it was a holiday weekend, the trail wasn't too popular due to the snowy conditions. Lots of places to hike, drive and enjoy the beauty this area has to offer. Continuing on can get you lost for days. Expect some snow on the trail in the spring and early summer and lightening storms in the summer and early fall. I think all trails begins the hike at a sign about a half mile in. On the way back we wanted a few more miles so we added the chocolate lakes loop. The first couple miles of the trail were mostly clear of snow, and any crowds dissipated as thick snow became more common. the White Mountain Vistor Center). You are required to use the bear boxes that are provided. It’s steep, but short with big sceneries. But where the path ‘ends’ is just at that sign and it’s underwhelming... you’d have to keep traveling down the trail to get anywhere and if you’re not prepared for a longer hike I wouldn’t keep going! Photographs of the Bishop Pass Trail, Eastern Sierra, starting at South Lake off Hwy 168, and continuing over the crest to Dusy Basin The trail then reaches Bishop Pass, which offers great views of Mount Agassiz and Dusy Basin. Middle Fork Trail. Snow and a little ice on the path. even saw a few groups who had hiked up and skied down! The trail is well maintained and easy to follow, especially up the pass. The snowy landscape was beautiful, but prevented us from getting all the way up to the pass. We visited Polemoniun Glacier via Bishop Pass, Thunderbolt Pass, Potluck Pass, a lot of boulder scrambling. Most people use the trail for fishing and backpacking at the lower lakes. It is longer than 10 miles. Off to the south, Hurd Peak looms above. 6 miles one way, 2000 ft in elevation gain. Some of the most remarkable trail building I've ever seen anywhere - well done, CCC! On the way up to the pass, you’ll hike up through the forest, passing a series of alpine lakes. Amazing views and fun in late spring snow, Did Bishop Pass Trail during Memorial Day weekend in 2018. The pass is switchbacks. If you’re looking for an overnight backpacking trip from Bishop, I highly recommend this trail. Didn’t need poles for this one and went through about 3 liters of water. Check at the Ranger Station. Beautiful colors in the fall and the scenery is as beautiful. We drove first to Parcher's Resort at South Lake, near Bishop. Continue on the main trail, you will see beautiful lakes as you go by. The trail leads through a succession of beautiful lake basins to a high pass on the Sierra Crest, along the way enjoying great views of Hurd Peak, Mount … It becomes very rocky and the trees disappear as you near the pass at 11,960 feet. (See Photo 2.) Bishop Pass, 11,972 ft (3,649 m), is a high mountain pass in the southern Sierra Nevada, California, on the border of the Inyo National Forest (John Muir Wilderness) on the north and Kings Canyon National Park on the south. Recreation.gov is your source for discovering and experiencing America's federal recreation activities and outdoor adventures. Bishop via Bishop Pass: This route adds just under 12 miles each way off the JMT. Bishop Pass Trail - South Lake to LeConte Canyon, Bishop Pass Trail to John Muir Trail to Piute Trail, Bishop Pass to Kearsarge Pass via John Muir Trail, Bishop Pass from Dusy Basin to South Lake, Lake Sabrina to Midnight Lake and Hungry Packer Lake. We are planning to camp at Ruwau Lake for 2 nights. The trail is very popular. Bishop Pass hiking detail, hiking trail near Bishop, California. If you are a resident of another country or region, please select the appropriate version of Tripadvisor for your country or region in the drop-down menu. Weather started to come in so I was not able to continue to Mt. Bishop Pass Trail is, however, much more than that. There are several ways to get there (trails), but only one way by car. The Bishop Pass Trail 6 Miles Trailhead Elevation (South Lake) — 9,800' Finish Elevation (Bishop Pass) — 11,980' Gain — 2,180' (363' per mile) This is the most popular trail in the area and after hiking here, you will know why. Super beautiful hike. Incredible views almost the entire route. The trail then reaches Bishop Pass, which offers great views of Mount Agassiz and Dusy Basin. Great for overnight backpacking. If you're backpacking though- right now there is road work on the road leading to the trailhead. Great hike but lots of traffic. It is extremely rocky in this area, but the footing is not bad. Here is the long overdue report on the Bishop Pass Trailhead: We planned a trip from Bishop Pass to Whitney Portal, so the first day of our vacation was logistical. Why Hike Bishop Pass. You'll want to take Line Street, which is the 168, West out of Bishop. From the pass area (as you see in the photo above) you can see Long Lake, Saddlerock Lake, and Bishop Lake, in order from bottom to top. When the temperatures in the Owens Valley soar to 100+ degrees, Bishop Pass Trail become a destination of choice. Make sure you check the weather reports before heading out. Stay left and continue toward Bishop Pass. It begins at an elevation of 9,800 feet, and gives attempting climbers a great high start. The highest lakes are tinted with glacial melt at the foot of Mt.Thompson and Mt.Goode. We were able to find a spot when some car was leaving. Multiple creek crossing to refill waters. The pass itself is a little underwhelming so we went down about 1.5 miles to the first lake in Dusy basin which was a perfect rest stop. Thank you! Incredible- worth every second. Sorry, there are no tours or activities available to book online for the date(s) you selected. Keep following the Bishop Pass Trail and you will pass Saddlerock Lake and Bishop Lake before reaching the base of the pass. The water is very clear and the lakes a stunning. The trail is in great shape. The Bishop Pass Trail - wanders along beautiful forests, lakes and meadows. We hiked it in mid August and it was warm but not miserable, afternoon thunderstorm kept us cool on the way out. Round trip is 12 miles. Le Conte Canyon looking south. Enjoy! The 200-mile route roughly parallels the popular John Muir Trail through the Sierra Nevada Range of California from Kings Canyon National Park to Yosemite National Park. The Bishop Pass Trailhead at South Lake Bishop, is the jumping off point for dozens of hikes in the canyon. Amazing trail with all kinds of views. There is a big parking lot at the trail head, but remember this is a very popular place, so parking places may be limited. Citadel on the left. Directions This Bishop Pass Trail starts by South Lake outside Bishop, CA. Becomes hard when climbing to the pass from the last lake on the trail, but so well worth the effort! If you are backpacking, you want to spend several days in the basin, as there may trails and lakes to explore. Dogs and horses are also able to use this trail. Please choose a different date. In about two miles the trail forks again. You will climb a series of granite benches, with many lakes and ponds. Day hike options include the hike to Chocolate Lakes and Chocolate Peak or you can choose to turn around once you reach the summit of Bishop Pass. In Bishop Pass and our Kearsarge from 7/3/19 to 7/7/19. Stopped at Bishop Lake right before the summit. Follow the Bishop Pass trail as indicated by the sign. you don't need to get to the pass for a great hike and looking. The first 1/2 mile or so is a steep up hill, then it alternates between some flat with up/downs and switchbacks before starting to pass the lakes. We. Langille Peak to the north. At about 3 miles you will arrive at Long Lake and you can see the pass with its numerous switchbacks. The trail offers a number of activity options and is best used from May until October. It's truly one of the most scenic trails for day hikers, campers and folks with a fishing rod. Though it was a holiday weekend, the trail wasn't too popular due to the snowy conditions. The view from Bishop Pass overlooking Owens valley is worth the effort if for a day hike. Did Bishop Pass Trail during Memorial Day weekend in 2018. There are 2 road closure signs - first one can drive past, the second one we parked at and walked 1.3ish miles to the trailhead. Hotels near Ancient Bristlecone Pine Forest, Hotels near Owens Valley Paiute Shoshone Cultural Center, Ancient Bristlecone Pine Forest: Tickets & Tours‎, Little Lakes Valley Trail: Tickets & Tours‎, Buttermilk Country Loop: Tickets & Tours‎, Owens Valley Paiute Shoshone Cultural Center: Tickets & Tours‎, Serrano Fine Art Gallery: Tickets & Tours‎, Bishop Chamber Of Commerce: Tickets & Tours‎, Owens Valley Paiute Shoshone Cultural Center. Bishop Pass to Dusy Basin is a popular backpacking route in the Eastern Sierras. Overnight hikers can camp by the small lake at the base of Mount Agassiz just a short off-trail hike from the pass or continue following the trail toward Dusy Basin. Garfield Grove Trail … Microspikes and hiking poles highly recommended for the high passes due to the heavy snow. Since this a very popular place, make sure to secure your wilderness permit and overnight parking permit early or you may be out of luck. Backpacking from South Lake to Kings Canyon via the Bishop Pass Trail in August of 2016. Great views of Mt Goode. As of 2011, the area is now open all year (it used to be closed in the summer). It’s an Eastern Sierras classic! Bring plenty of bug spray! Can’t wait to do this trail again in warmer weather to see how it compares. Nice little last push to the pass which was a bit challenging for us since we came up from LA yesterday. Starting out at 10,000 feet, the trail … We have our backpack this upcoming weekend. but not hard. Passing Inconsolable Range on the left. 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