Bishop Pass Trail - South Lake

Starting at beautiful South Lake, the trail climbs to the valley between the Inconsolable Range and Hurd Peak. A popular day hike loops around Chocolate Peak and rejoins the main trail at Long Lake. The Chocolate Lake loop is not recommended for stock. The trail to Bishop Pass climbs a series of granite benches, each holding lakes and ponds. The highest lakes are tinted with glacial melt at the foot of Mt.Thompson and Mt.Goode. Over Bishop Pass is the backcountry of Kings Canyon National Park, with the trail continuing to Dusy Basin and LeConte Canyon where it meets the John Muir Trail. This is an active bear area so you must use bear resistant food storage containers to secure your food and refuse.

Common Destinations: Chocolate Lakes loop, Long Lake, Bishop Lake, Dusy Basin, John Muir Trail

Download area map for trail location.
To purchase more detailed maps or guidebooks of the area, visit sierraforever.org

At a Glance

Current Conditions:	Weather
Reservations:	Reserve up to 6 months in advance at www.Recreation.gov
Rentals & Guides:	Rainbow Pack Station is located near Parchers Resort, on Bishop Creek Road offering day rides and mule pack trips (760) 873-8877
Permit Info:	Wilderness permits are required year round for overnight trips Day use does not require a permit. May 1 through November 1 quota limits visitors to 36 people per day.
Busiest Season:	July-August
Restrictions:	No campfires above 10,000 ft. Food, trash and scented items must be stored in bear proof containers Groups cannot be larger than 15 people (includes day use). Chocolate Lake Loop is not recommended for stock. John Muir Wilderness regulations Sequoia and Kings Canyon wilderness regulations (Dusy Basin / Palisade Basin, JMT)
Closest Towns:	Bishop, CA (full service, hospital)
Water:	Water from creeks, lakes and springs should be treated before drinking.
Restroom:	Vault toilet at trailhead. Please Leave No Trace. Bury human waste away from water sources.
Operated By:	Forest Service
Information Center:	White Mountain Visitor Center (760) 873-2500 Wilderness Permit Information (760) 873-2483

General Information

Directions:

From Bishop go west on Line Street (Hwy 168). Follow Hwy 168 in the direction of South Lake. At the end of the road past the boat ramp, a paved parking lot has day use and some overnight parking spots. Additional overnight parking is allowed roadside near Parcher's Resort.

Recreation Map

Map showing recreational areas. Map Information

Activities

Lake and Pond Fishing

Bishop Pass Trail has great fishing opportunities, Most lakes have Rainbow, Brook and Brown Trout. Check the Eastern Sierra Back Country Fishing Guide to see other varieties of trout that are in the lakes.