Bishop Creek Hiking Tour

1 Day Outing: Hiking Your Way Through South Lake (Bishop Creek) 

One of the great things about Bishop’s big backyard is that you don’t have to embark on a multi-day backpacking tour or tackle strenuous trails to have an epic experience — unless that’s what you’re after. You can still enjoy the high country of Bishop in just one day. And to help you on your way, here’s a suggested itinerary for hiking in the Bishop Creek South Lake area to do just that. 

Start With an Auto Tour 

As you leave the Owens Valley floor, you’re already on your way to your first adventure — an auto tour to the tranquil waters of South Lake. Sweeping curves provide jaw dropping vistas with commanding views of the craggy peaks above and the Owens Valley below.  

Tip: While the drive can take an hour, if you’re visiting in the spring or fall, set aside extra time to take in the changing of the seasons from the blooming of wildflowers to the fall foliage. 

A Don’t Miss: Tyee Lakes Bridge 

As you make the left turn onto South Lake Road, just before Parchers Resort, you’ll find the Tyee Lake Trailhead. Although the trail itself is a challenging route, featuring nearly 2,000 feet of climbing in less than 3 miles, a stone’s throw from the road is a one-of-a kind bridge that crosses over the creek and worth a quick diversion. 

South Lake – A Gateway to Fun 

As you continue onward and upward, you’ll arrive at the highest of the three lakes in the Bishop Creek basin. Located at 9,750 feet above sea level, this lake is a popular starting point for accessing the Pacific Crest Trail, John Muir Wilderness, and even Kings Canyon National Park on foot. It’s also one of the top 10 hotspots to cast a line in Bishop. Whether you want to spend a full day exploring or simply enjoy the scenery at your own pace, here are a few ideas: 

A Relaxing Picnic: 

If time is tight or you’re not up for a hike, pick up sandwiches in town for a picnic. Just a quick stroll, about 100 feet above the parking lot at South Lake, you’ll find a large picnic table. Here, you can take in the serene beauty of South Lake and the jagged peaks surrounding it, all while enjoying those scrumptious sandwiches. 

An Hour Hike – Wildflower 

If you continue past the picnic tables, you’ll come across the Wildflower Trail. This charming 2-mile out-and-back trek offers quick access to the backcountry and its stunning scenery. 

Three Hour Tour – Treasure Lakes 

While Bishop Pass is famous for its challenging hikes, one of the region’s must-see bodies of water is Treasure Lakes. Over the course of its 6 miles, you’ll experience a variety of landscapes. From granite alpine vistas to walking through picturesque stands of aspen trees, the trail culminates with two breathtaking lakes at the end of your adventure. 

For a more in-depth look and other day hikes around South Lake, check out Bishop’s Day Hikes Guide.