Views of Bishop Peak – Cerro San Luis Summit loop from San Luis Obispo
Views of Bishop Peak – Cerro San Luis Summit loop from San Luis Obispo
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Views of Bishop Peak – Cerro San Luis Summit loop from San Luis Obispo
02:51
9.39km
320m
Hiking
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels. The starting point of the route is accessible with public transport.
Last updated: May 27, 2026
Waypoints
Start point
Bus stop
Get Directions
1.68 km
Natural tunnel along the trail
Highlight • Natural
Also you can still enjoy the views of the foot of the mountain.
Tip by
4.09 km
Views of Bishop Peak
Highlight • Viewpoint
Tip by
4.46 km
Cerro San Luis Summit
Highlight • Summit
Tip by
8.86 km
Old Mission San Luis Obispo de Tolosa
Highlight • Religious Site
Tip by
9.02 km
Spanish Mission
Highlight • Historical Site
Tip by
9.39 km
End point
Bus stop
Way Types & Surfaces
Way Types
4.60 km
1.96 km
1.86 km
854 m
< 100 m
Surfaces
5.64 km
1.23 km
1.21 km
883 m
389 m
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Elevation
Highest point (350 m)
Lowest point (60 m)
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Weather
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Today
Wednesday 15 July
29°C
15°C
0 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 29.0 km/h
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Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
Description
If you're looking to conquer two of San Luis Obispo's most iconic peaks in one go, the Views of Bishop Peak – Cerro San Luis Summit loop from San Luis Obispo is a fantastic choice. This moderate hiking route covers 5.8 miles (9.4 km) with a solid 1036 feet (316 metres) of elevation gain, typically taking around 2 hours and 51 minutes to complete. It's a rewarding challenge for those who want extensive panoramic views without an all-day commitment.
What to expect on Views of Bishop Peak – Cerro San Luis Summit loop from San Luis Obispo
Expect a varied journey on this loop, starting with shaded oak forests on Bishop Peak before transitioning to rocky, sun-exposed mountainsides with switchbacks. You'll encounter rocky single tracks and some bouldering near the summit of Bishop Peak, the tallest of the Nine Sisters. Cerro San Luis offers its own steep sections, though perhaps slightly less intense, with dirt roads, oak groves, and rocky terrain closer to its summit. The effort is well worth it for the 360-degree views from both peaks, encompassing downtown San Luis Obispo, Cal Poly, Laguna Lake, and even Morro Rock on clear days. This route is best for confident hikers ready for significant elevation changes and varied terrain; sturdy shoes are a must.
Planning your visit
This combined loop offers an extended experience of these two majestic mountains. While specific parking details for the combined loop are not provided, individual trailheads for Bishop Peak and Cerro San Luis are accessible. No permits are mentioned as required for either peak. Given the sun-exposed sections, especially on the mountainsides, carrying ample water is advisable, particularly during warmer months. Spring is an excellent time to visit, as the trails can feature splashes of color from wildflowers like Indian paintbrush and lupines.
Trail details
- Distance: 5.8 miles (9.4 km)
- Elevation gain: 1036 feet (316 metres)
- Difficulty: moderate
- Estimated time: 2 hours and 51 minutes
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