Bishop Peak (California)

Bishop Peak is one of the nine volcanic peaks that form the Morros, also known as the Nine Sisters, located in San Luis Obispo County, California. Rising to a height of 1,546 feet (471 meters), Bishop Peak is the tallest of the Morros.

The peak is a popular hiking destination, offering panoramic views of San Luis Obispo and the surrounding landscape, including the Pacific Ocean on clear days. The trail to the summit is moderately challenging and well-maintained.

Geologically, Bishop Peak, like the other Morros, is a volcanic plug formed approximately 20-25 million years ago during the Miocene epoch. The magma that formed the peaks cooled and hardened within the vents of ancient volcanoes. Subsequent erosion removed the surrounding softer material, leaving the more resistant volcanic plugs standing prominently.

The area around Bishop Peak features a variety of plant life characteristic of the California chaparral and oak woodland ecosystems.

Ownership of Bishop Peak is split between the City of San Luis Obispo and private owners. The City owns the upper portion and maintains the hiking trails.