Bishop Mural Walk
A challenging hike to a stunning alpine pass, featuring pristine lakes and panoramic Sierra Nevada vistas.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Secure parking & fewer crowds
Bishop Mural Walk
Best Time
Secure parking & fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A challenging hike to a stunning alpine pass, featuring pristine lakes and panoramic Sierra Nevada vistas.
"SO BEAUTIFUL!!! Every corner held another gem. Another lake. Another picturesque scene."
🚗 Parking Strategy
Arrive before 6:30 AM on weekends for prime spots; overflow lots and roadside parking are options. :car:
💩 Pack It In, Pack It Out
Crucial to pack out all trash, including dog waste, to keep the area pristine. :womantippinghand_woman:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Bishop Pass Summit
Top of Bishop Pass
Panoramic 360-degree views at 12,000 feet, showcasing the vast Sierra Nevada range.
Long Lake & Bishop Lake
Along the trail to Bishop Pass
Crystal-clear alpine lakes reflecting the surrounding granite peaks and meadows.
Alpine Meadows
Various points on the trail
Vibrant wildflowers and lush greenery dotting the landscape, offering picturesque scenes.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Crowds & Doggy Do-Do
Permits & Altitude Awareness
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Accessing Bishop via Kearsarge or Bishop Pass
🚗 Parking Strategy
Arrive before 6:30 AM on weekends for prime spots; overflow lots and roadside parking are options. :car:
💩 Pack It In, Pack It Out
Crucial to pack out all trash, including dog waste, to keep the area pristine. :womantippinghand_woman:
resupply at bishop pass?
Transportation from Bishop Pass trailhead
🥾 Trail Conditions
Expect rocky stairs and limited shade on the ascent; wear sturdy hiking boots. :athletic_shoe:
💧 Stay Hydrated
Carry plenty of water, especially at higher altitudes, and consider a water filter. :droplet:
Bishop pass campsites
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Parking Strategy
Arrive before 6:30 AM on weekends for prime spots; overflow lots and roadside parking are options. :car:
💩 Pack It In, Pack It Out
Crucial to pack out all trash, including dog waste, to keep the area pristine. :womantippinghand_woman:
🥾 Trail Conditions
Expect rocky stairs and limited shade on the ascent; wear sturdy hiking boots. :athletic_shoe:
💧 Stay Hydrated
Carry plenty of water, especially at higher altitudes, and consider a water filter. :droplet:
🐻 Bear Safety
Use a bear canister for overnight trips and be aware of wildlife. :bear:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the stunning alpine scenery, with crystal-clear lakes and breathtaking summit views. However, many note significant crowds, especially on weekends, and express disappointment with the amount of dog waste and litter left on the trail. The hike's strenuous nature and rocky sections are also frequently mentioned.
"Incredible views, and beautiful hike marred by the frequency of both dog & human waste. 😞 Please, please bury both (Pro Tip- stacking rocks and leaving TP doesn't count). This is such a special place. We were conducting endangered species surveys in this area. Would love to experience it without the 💩. 🙏🏾"
Jennifer Hartman
"SO BEAUTIFUL!!! Every corner held another gem. Another lake. Another picturesque scene. I could hardly stop staring to remember to hike.
It's California, so yes, there are lots of people. Let's be nice to each other and all have a great time in the great outdoors!"
Lindsey C.S.
"Underwhelming hike to the bishop pass considering the hype. Reached at 6:25AM, Sunday of the Labor Day weekend. Parking lot was full, went to the overflow lot. There are 3 lots, one for backpackers/overnight folks. One for day use, ~50 cars, overflow for day use, ~20 cars. An additional 15 cars can park along the road around the parking area. There are 5 pullout parking areas with ~5 cars each in the last mile up to the trailhead. The trail is less hiking, more stairs climbing. 40% of the uphill section are stairs with big rocks. In the uphill section, another 20% is flat/downhill. Both of these are not fun to me. There is almost no shade of trees. In the early morning, the mountains to the left provided shade for 2 hrs until the sun was really over the sky. The best view for me was along the long and bishop lake. The bishop pass is a nothing burger, lack lustre views of rocks everywhere and distant mountains, no lake is visible. The trail was crowded, passing folks every 2 minutes. Trail is thin, so one way traffic has to stop/step aside. A lot of unleashed dogs on the trail."
Utsav Sinha (uutsav)
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Bishop Pass trailhead is accessible via South Lake Road from Bishop, California. For those coming from further afield, the Sierra Shuttle offers transport from Bishop's Warren Street bus station to the trailhead.
Yes, there are multiple parking lots, including dedicated areas for day-use and overnight hikers. However, they fill up very quickly, especially on weekends. Arriving before 6:30 AM is highly recommended.
Yes, the Bishop Pass Trailhead is the starting point for the hike to Bishop Pass. The hike itself is a significant undertaking, typically requiring a full day.
Driving your own vehicle is common, but the Sierra Shuttle is a convenient option if you prefer not to drive or worry about parking.
The drive from the town of Bishop to the Bishop Pass trailhead is approximately 15-20 miles, taking about 45 minutes to an hour depending on road conditions and traffic. :car:
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
A permit is required for overnight stays in the Inyo National Forest, which includes Bishop Pass. Day hikes generally do not require a permit, but it's always best to check current regulations with the Forest Service.
There are no specific entrance fees for the Bishop Pass trail itself. However, parking fees may apply at some trailheads, and wilderness permits for overnight stays have associated costs. :moneybag:
Bishop Pass is an outdoor natural area and is accessible year-round, though winter conditions can make it impassable without specialized gear. The trailhead parking areas are generally open during daylight hours. :clock1:
Tickets are not applicable as it's a natural trail. However, overnight wilderness permits can and should be reserved in advance, especially for popular times, through the Inyo National Forest website.
Permits for overnight trips, especially for popular trailheads like Bishop Pass, are highly competitive. They typically become available months in advance and are often allocated via lottery or on a first-come, first-served basis. Check the Recreation.gov website for specific release dates.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The hike to Bishop Pass is considered strenuous due to its elevation gain and rocky terrain. It involves significant uphill climbing, with sections that feel like stairs.
A round trip to Bishop Pass typically takes a full day, often 8-10 hours, depending on your pace and how much time you spend enjoying the views.
At the summit of Bishop Pass (around 12,000 feet), you'll find stunning panoramic views of the Sierra Nevada, including surrounding peaks and valleys. Some find the pass itself less spectacular than the lakes along the way.
Dogs are allowed on the Bishop Pass trail, but they must be leashed at all times. Unfortunately, some visitors have reported issues with unleashed dogs and waste not being properly managed.
Pack essentials like plenty of water, snacks, sunscreen, a hat, layers of clothing, a first-aid kit, and sturdy hiking boots. For overnight trips, a bear canister is mandatory.
🍽️ 🎣 Food & Dining
There are no dining facilities directly at the Bishop Pass trailhead. You'll find restaurants and amenities in the nearby town of Bishop, which is about a 45-minute drive away.
Yes, fishing is permitted in the lakes and streams around Bishop Pass, provided you have a valid California fishing license.
Bring high-energy snacks like trail mix, energy bars, and sandwiches. For longer hikes or overnight trips, plan your meals carefully and ensure you have a bear canister if needed.
While there are no designated picnic areas, you can stop and enjoy your packed lunch at various scenic spots along the trail. Remember to practice Leave No Trace principles. :picnic_table:
The town of Bishop offers several grocery stores and outdoor outfitters where you can purchase food and supplies before your hike. :shopping_cart:
📸 📸 Photography
The lakes, such as Long Lake and Bishop Lake, offer stunning reflections. The summit provides expansive mountain vistas. Look for wildflowers in meadows during the right season.
Early morning and late afternoon offer the best light for photography, with softer shadows and warmer tones. Sunrise and sunset can be spectacular if you're there overnight. :sunriseovermountains:
A wide-angle lens is great for landscapes, while a telephoto lens can capture distant peaks. A sturdy tripod is helpful for low-light conditions. Don't forget extra batteries! :camerawithflash:
Generally, photography is allowed, but be mindful of other hikers and avoid disturbing wildlife. Drone usage may be restricted in wilderness areas, so check regulations. :noentrysign:
Include a person or a recognizable object in your frame to give a sense of scale. Shooting from a lower vantage point can also emphasize the height of the mountains. :iphone:
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
For families with older, experienced hikers, the full trek to the pass can be an adventurous undertaking. Pack plenty of snacks and make it a memorable day trip. Be mindful of the dog waste issue and teach children about Leave No Trace principles.
💰 Budget Travelers
Packing your own food and water is essential, as there are no services at the trailhead. Consider camping in nearby dispersed areas (where permitted) or in established campgrounds to save on accommodation costs. Remember to factor in the cost of any necessary permits or fishing licenses. :moneywithwings:
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Bring a versatile lens setup, including a wide-angle for landscapes and potentially a telephoto for capturing distant details. A tripod will be invaluable for low-light conditions and capturing sharp images of the reflections. Be prepared for changing weather conditions and pack accordingly. :camerawithflash:
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating the Trail to Bishop Pass
Key landmarks along the way include the beautiful Long Lake and Bishop Lake, which offer stunning reflections of the surrounding granite peaks and are popular spots for breaks and photography. The landscape transitions from forested areas to alpine meadows and eventually to a more barren, rocky terrain as you approach the pass. The lack of shade on much of the trail means sun protection is crucial, especially during the midday hours.
Reaching the summit of Bishop Pass, situated at approximately 12,000 feet, provides breathtaking panoramic views. While some reviewers find the pass itself to be a 'nothing burger' with views of rocks and distant mountains, others are captivated by the vastness of the Sierra Nevada. Regardless, the journey through the diverse alpine environment is a significant part of the experience.
Responsible Recreation at Bishop Pass
For those planning overnight trips, wilderness permits are mandatory and should be secured well in advance, as they are often in high demand. Proper food storage, including the use of bear canisters, is also required to protect both wildlife and your supplies. Adhering to Leave No Trace principles is essential for minimizing your impact on this fragile ecosystem.
Respecting fellow hikers is also part of responsible recreation. The trail can become crowded, especially on weekends. Be courteous, yield to uphill hikers when possible, and keep noise levels down to allow everyone to enjoy the tranquility of the mountains.
Altitude and Acclimatization
Symptoms of altitude sickness can include headaches, nausea, dizziness, and fatigue. Staying well-hydrated, avoiding alcohol and strenuous activity on your first day at altitude, and listening to your body are crucial. If symptoms worsen, descending to a lower elevation is the most effective remedy.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit