Bishop Peak Natural Reserve

Bishop Peak is the highest of the Nine Sisters, the chain of ancient volcanic morros that march from San Luis Obispo to Morro Bay, and its summit is the most popular hike in the county. The signature route from Patricia Drive climbs roughly four miles round-trip through oak woodland and chaparral before reaching a dramatic field of volcanic boulders near the 1,559-foot summit, where hikers scramble the final stretch to panoramic views stretching from the city to the coastline and surrounding morros. A SLO rite of passage, Bishop Peak rewards the steep, rocky climb with some of the best views on the Central Coast. Rock climbers test the peak's volcanic crags, while hikers of all ages tackle the trail year-round. It's the quintessential SLO outdoor experience — a hard-earned summit with a view that captures the whole county.