Discover Bishop Peak, the tallest of the Nine Sisters, a stunning chain of volcanic Morros that grace the landscape of San Luis Obispo. This iconic mountain, with its distinctive rocky crown resembling a bishop’s miter, offers breathtaking panoramic views of both the city and the surrounding peaks. The single-track trail leading to the 1,559-foot summit is demanding but rewarding, and dogs are welcome as long as they stay on leash.

The most direct route starts at the trailhead at the top of Highland Drive and covers 3.5 miles round trip with a 950-foot elevation gain. If you prefer a longer approach, the Patricia Drive trailhead offers 4.2 miles round trip with a 1,175-foot elevation change. Either way, bring plenty of water for both you and your dog—the exposed sections get hot, especially on clear days.

The climb is steep in places, but the payoff is genuine. Two benches at the summit give you a place to catch your breath, though the real views come if you scramble a bit higher up the rocks to the west or east. From there, you can see Cal Poly, downtown San Luis Obispo, Cerro San Luis, Laguna Lake, the Santa Lucia Mountains, and the surrounding volcanic peaks that make this area so distinctive.

For hikers with good balance and agility, the nearby summit to the right of the main peak is an easy extra scramble that opens up even more sweeping vistas. The trail itself is well-maintained but can be crowded on weekends, particularly on clear mornings. If your dog isn’t used to steep terrain or hot conditions, consider an early morning start or waiting for cooler months. The rocky sections near the top mean careful footing for both humans and dogs, so take your time on the descent.