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.
WARNING! Hiking and outdoor related sports can be dangerous. Be responsible and prepare for the trip. Study the area you are entering and plan accordingly. Dress for the current and unexpected weather changes. Take plenty of water. Never go alone. Make an itinerary with your plan(s), route(s), destination(s) and expected return time. Give your itinerary to trusted family and/or friends.
To hike 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.
page created by HAZ_Hikebot on Mar 09 2010 11:36 pm