Barry PhilipsBishop, California, is one of the premier hiking destinations in the Eastern Sierra. Nestled between the towering Sierra Nevada mountains and the White Mountains, Bishop offers breathtaking landscapes, alpine lakes, waterfalls, rugged peaks, ancient bristlecone pine forests, and trails suitable for everyone—from beginners to experienced mountaineers.
Whether you’re planning a weekend adventure or a longer Eastern Sierra vacation, Bishop’s hiking trails provide unforgettable scenery, diverse wildlife, and excellent opportunities for photography, camping, fishing, and backpacking.
This guide covers the best hiking trails in Bishop, California, including trail difficulty, highlights, hiking tips, and everything you need to plan your next outdoor adventure.
Top Hiking Trails In Bishop CA
1. Big Pine Lakes Trail
The Big Pine Lakes Trail is undoubtedly one of the most iconic hikes near Bishop.
The trail winds through pine forests before revealing an astonishing series of turquoise alpine lakes surrounded by towering granite cliffs and glaciers.
Highlights
- Seven stunning alpine lakes
- Palisade Glacier views
- Crystal-clear turquoise water
- Waterfalls
- Mountain scenery
Trail Details
- Distance: Approximately 15 miles round trip
- Difficulty: Moderate to Difficult
- Elevation Gain: Around 3,400 feet
- Time: 7–9 hours
This hike is perfect for photographers and experienced hikers seeking unforgettable scenery.
2. Bishop Pass Trail
One of the most famous trails in the Eastern Sierra, Bishop Pass Trail takes hikers through alpine meadows, sparkling lakes, and dramatic mountain landscapes.
It eventually reaches Bishop Pass at over 11,900 feet.
Highlights
- Long Lake
- Saddlerock Lake
- Timberline Tarns
- Incredible alpine scenery
- Backpacking opportunities
Trail Details
- Distance: 11–12 miles round trip
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Elevation Gain: About 2,700 feet
This trail is especially beautiful during late summer when wildflowers bloom.
3. South Lake to Long Lake Trail
This relatively easy hike is ideal for families and casual hikers.
Starting from South Lake, the trail gradually climbs to Long Lake while passing streams, wildflowers, and mountain views.
Highlights
- Family-friendly
- Excellent fishing
- Wildflowers
- Scenic lake
Trail Details
- Distance: 6 miles round trip
- Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
- Elevation Gain: Approximately 500 feet
4. Treasure Lakes Trail
Treasure Lakes Trail offers solitude compared to some of Bishop’s busier routes.
The trail climbs through beautiful forests before reaching two pristine alpine lakes.
Highlights
- Peaceful atmosphere
- Alpine lakes
- Granite scenery
- Fishing opportunities
Trail Details
- Distance: Around 5 miles round trip
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Elevation Gain: 1,400 feet
5. Piute Pass Trail
This trail is beloved for its gentle grades and spectacular mountain scenery.
Unlike many Sierra trails, Piute Pass climbs gradually, making it accessible to a wider range of hikers.
Highlights
- Humphreys Basin
- Lakes
- Mountain streams
- Wildflowers
Trail Details
- Distance: 11 miles round trip
- Difficulty: Moderate
6. Sabrina Basin Trail
Sabrina Basin offers one of the highest concentrations of alpine lakes near Bishop.
The hike passes numerous lakes before entering pristine wilderness.
Highlights
- Blue Lake
- Dingleberry Lake
- Emerald scenery
- Excellent backpacking
Trail Details
- Distance: Variable (6–12 miles)
- Difficulty: Moderate
7. Little Lakes Valley Trail
Although slightly north of Bishop, Little Lakes Valley deserves inclusion.
It offers tremendous scenery with relatively little elevation gain.
Highlights
- Multiple lakes
- Mountain reflections
- Family-friendly
- Wildlife
Trail Details
- Distance: 6 miles round trip
- Difficulty: Easy
8. Ancient Bristlecone Pine Forest Trails
The White Mountains are home to the oldest trees on Earth.
Several hiking trails explore these remarkable ancient forests.
Highlights
- Trees over 4,000 years old
- Unique landscapes
- Educational experience
- Panoramic views
Popular trails include:
- Methuselah Trail
- Discovery Trail
- Bristlecone Cabin Trail
9. Buttermilk Country Hiking Trails
Better known for rock climbing, Buttermilk Country also features scenic hiking routes among enormous granite boulders.
Highlights
- Unique granite formations
- Desert scenery
- Photography
- Sunset hikes
Difficulty ranges from easy walks to more rugged scrambling adventures.
10. Horton Creek Trail
Horton Creek is one of Bishop’s hidden gems.
The trail follows a rushing creek through lush forest before reaching beautiful waterfalls.
Highlights
- Waterfalls
- Creek crossings
- Shaded forest
- Spring wildflowers
Trail Details
- Distance: Approximately 8 miles round trip
- Difficulty: Moderate
Why Hike in Bishop?
Before exploring individual trails, it’s worth understanding why Bishop has become a favorite destination for outdoor enthusiasts.
The region offers:
- Spectacular granite peaks
- Crystal-clear alpine lakes
- Easy access from Highway 395
- Hundreds of miles of maintained trails
- World-class rock climbing
- High-altitude wilderness experiences
- Wildlife viewing opportunities
- Incredible sunrise and sunset photography
Many hikers consider Bishop the gateway to some of California’s most beautiful wilderness areas.
Best Time to Hike in Bishop
The ideal hiking season depends on elevation.
Spring (April–June)
- Wildflowers
- Cooler temperatures
- Waterfalls flowing strongly
Summer (July–September)
- Peak hiking season
- Snow-free high elevations
- Warm weather
Fall (October)
- Golden aspens
- Fewer crowds
- Crisp temperatures
Winter hiking is possible on lower-elevation trails but high mountain routes often become snow-covered.
Wildlife You May See
Hikers frequently encounter:
- Mule deer
- Marmots
- Black bears
- Golden eagles
- Hawks
- Mountain bluebirds
- Chipmunks
- Trout in alpine lakes
Always observe wildlife from a safe distance.
Essential Hiking Tips
Before heading into the mountains:
- Start early to avoid afternoon thunderstorms.
- Carry plenty of water.
- Wear sturdy hiking boots.
- Bring sunscreen.
- Pack layers for changing weather.
- Download offline maps.
- Tell someone your hiking plans.
- Carry bear-safe food storage if backpacking.
- Respect Leave No Trace principles.
What to Pack
Essential gear includes:
- Daypack
- Hiking boots
- Water bottles or hydration bladder
- Snacks
- GPS or trail map
- Trekking poles
- First-aid kit
- Sunscreen
- Hat
- Rain jacket
- Emergency whistle
- Headlamp
Safety Considerations
Many Bishop trails exceed 10,000 feet in elevation.
To avoid altitude sickness:
- Spend a night acclimating in Bishop.
- Stay hydrated.
- Pace yourself.
- Descend if symptoms worsen.
Weather can change rapidly, so always check forecasts before hiking.
Comparison Table of the Best Hiking Trails in Bishop, CA
| Trail | Difficulty | Distance (Round Trip) | Best Feature | Ideal For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Big Pine Lakes | Moderate–Difficult | 15 miles | Turquoise lakes | Experienced hikers |
| Bishop Pass | Moderate | 11–12 miles | Alpine pass | Backpackers |
| South Lake to Long Lake | Easy–Moderate | 6 miles | Scenic lake | Families |
| Treasure Lakes | Moderate | 5 miles | Quiet alpine lakes | Nature lovers |
| Piute Pass | Moderate | 11 miles | Gentle climbing | Intermediate hikers |
| Sabrina Basin | Moderate | 6–12 miles | Multiple lakes | Backpackers |
| Little Lakes Valley | Easy | 6 miles | Lake scenery | Beginners |
| Bristlecone Forest | Easy–Moderate | Various | Ancient trees | History & nature enthusiasts |
| Buttermilk Country | Easy–Moderate | Various | Granite boulders | Photographers |
| Horton Creek | Moderate | 8 miles | Waterfalls | Adventure seekers |
Related
Conclusion
Bishop, California, is a paradise for hikers of every experience level. Whether you’re trekking to the brilliant blue waters of Big Pine Lakes, crossing the high elevations of Bishop Pass, wandering among the world’s oldest bristlecone pine trees, or enjoying a peaceful stroll through Little Lakes Valley, the region offers unforgettable adventures surrounded by some of the most spectacular landscapes in the American West.
With its diverse trails, alpine lakes, dramatic granite peaks, abundant wildlife, and year-round outdoor opportunities, Bishop continues to be one of California’s premier hiking destinations. By choosing the trail that matches your fitness level, preparing properly for high-altitude conditions, and practicing Leave No Trace principles, you’ll enjoy a safe and memorable hiking experience. No matter when you visit, the hiking trails around Bishop promise incredible scenery and lasting memories that will keep you coming back to the Eastern Sierra year after year.