Bishop Pass to Palisade Lakes

This classic High Sierra out-and-back starts at the Bishop Pass Trailhead and winds through some of the most iconic alpine terrain in the range. With expansive meadows, crystalline lakes, and dramatic granite peaks, the route takes you over Bishop Pass and deep into Kings Canyon National Park, ending at the stunning Palisade Lakes basin just below Mather Pass. This route is ideal for strong intermediate to advanced backpackers looking for a high-alpine adventure with optional side quests, like scrambling up Mount Agassiz or exploring Dusy Basin.

Start at the Bishop Pass Trailhead near South Lake and head steadily uphill through forest and rocky switchbacks. The trail passes several alpine lakes including Long Lake, Saddlerock Lake, and Bishop Lake, before making the final push to Bishop Pass at 11,972 feet.

After crossing the pass, drop into the vast expanse of Dusy Basin, where open granite benches and turquoise lakes make for prime camping and photo stops. From here, descend through dusky lodgepole forest and talus-strewn terrain until you meet the John Muir Trail (JMT) / Pacific Crest Trail (PCT) at the LeConte Canyon junction. Turn south onto the JMT/PCT and begin a long, beautiful ascent through Upper Palisade Creek toward the lakes.

Palisade Lakes sit in a stark, dramatic cirque of high granite walls with views of the Palisade Crest and the switchbacks leading up Mather Pass in the distance. Soak it in, explore, or go for a swim before turning around and retracing your steps.

Plant life

This route takes you through classic Sierra ecosystems: subalpine meadows, glacially carved basins, and windswept ridgelines. Expect to see marmots, pika, deer, and plenty of alpine birds. Wildflowers peak mid-summer, and lakes sparkle in the early morning light.

Camping & Water

• Popular campsites at Bishop Lake, Dusy Basin, and Palisade Lakes

• Water is plentiful throughout—bring a reliable filter

• No fires above 10,000 ft

• Bear canisters are required

Peak Bagging Opportunities

• Mount Agassiz (13,899'): A popular Class 2-3 scramble from Bishop Pass—no permit required for this peak

• Columbine Peak or Isosceles Peak: More remote and technical climbs near Dusy Basin

• Mather Pass (12,094'): Not a technical peak, but worth the climb to extend your route and grab big views north and south along the JMT

Permits

• Overnight permits required, reserve through Recreation.gov.

• This route enters Kings Canyon National Park—follow national park regulations

When to Go

Mid-July through early October. Snow may linger on the pass early in the season. Late season offers fewer bugs, clearer skies, and quieter campsites.
Considerations

• The first few miles are at high elevation—acclimate beforehand if possible

• Bishop Pass can be windy and exposed—avoid during storms or high winds

• Trail is well-marked but rocky in places—trekking poles recommended

• Expect mosquitoes mid-summer; bring repellent

• This route is long but manageable in 4–5 days for most backpackers

Getting There

Drive to the Bishop Pass Trailhead at South Lake, west of Bishop, CA. Paved road all the way. There’s a large trailhead parking area, though it fills quickly on weekends. Bear lockers and restrooms available at the lot.