South Lake — Bishop

This route is rated as difficult for touring cyclists. The climb to South Lake is considered exceptionally challenging, with significant elevation gain. While the komoot tour covers a substantial portion, the full ascent from Bishop is known as one of the hardest climbs in the United States.

The initial section from Bishop to the South Lake Road turnoff on Highway 168 can be dry and less inspiring, with frequent expansion cracks. However, once you turn onto South Lake Road, the quality significantly improves, becoming 'glassy' and offering a much more pleasant, albeit still challenging, pitch. The climb becomes particularly serious in the last 1.5 miles, with the final half-mile being truly hard.

Despite the strenuous climb, the route rewards cyclists with breathtaking High Sierra scenery. As you ascend, especially above 8,000 feet, you'll see aspens, which are particularly vibrant in the fall. The area around South Lake offers postcard-worthy views of jagged peaks like Hurd Peak, Mount Goode, and Mount Thompson. You'll also pass stunning crystal-clear lakes such as Long Lake, Saddlerock Lake, and Bishop Lake, with wildflower meadows adding color in spring and early summer.

The best time to cycle this route is typically from late spring through early fall. The fall season is particularly recommended for its vibrant golden and red aspen foliage. Be aware that conditions can vary, and higher elevations may experience snow earlier or later in the season.

Yes, dogs are generally allowed on the paved roads leading to South Lake. However, if you plan to venture onto hiking trails in the surrounding Inyo National Forest, specific regulations may apply, including leash requirements. Always ensure your dog is under control and follow Leave No Trace principles.

No specific permits or entrance fees are required for cycling the paved road to South Lake. However, if you plan to hike or backpack into the wilderness areas beyond South Lake, such as the John Muir Wilderness or Kings Canyon National Park, permits may be necessary. Always check with the Inyo National Forest for the latest regulations, especially for overnight stays.

Parking is available in Bishop, which serves as the starting point for the full climb. Alternatively, you can drive up Highway 168 and park closer to the South Lake Road turnoff if you wish to tackle a shorter, but still challenging, segment of the climb. Parking is also available at South Lake itself, though this would be for starting a descent or exploring the lake area.

When cycling in Inyo National Forest, be prepared for high-altitude conditions and significant elevation changes. The area is active bear country, so if you plan any overnight stays, proper food storage in bear-resistant containers is essential. Always carry enough water, layers of clothing, and be aware of changing weather. No specific permits are needed for road cycling, but wilderness permits are required for backpacking.

Yes, for those seeking additional riding, a side trip to Lake Sabrina via Highway 168 is a popular option. Many consider the scenery around Lake Sabrina to be even more beautiful than South Lake. Both routes offer challenging climbs and stunning High Sierra vistas.

While the entire climb is demanding, the road quality significantly improves once you turn onto South Lake Road. If you're looking for the most rewarding part of the climb with the best road surface and scenery, consider focusing your effort on the section from the South Lake Road turnoff upwards. Be prepared for a very fast descent, requiring well-maintained brakes and careful modulation.