Bishop Pass Trek [2-3 Day w/Agassiz Summit Option] Backpacking Trip

Overview

The Bishop pass trail is a spectacular 10 mile out and back hike that offers stunning views of granite peaks, beautiful alpine lakes and lush meadows. Although the climb to Bishop Pass is a rocky section with bigger step ups and step downs, the trail up to this section is an easy to moderate grade along a smooth and forested trail that offers better and better scenery the higher you climb! The trail starts at South Lake trailhead and climbs to the valley between the Inconsolable Range and Hurd Peak, with the highest lakes found at the foot of Mt.Thompson and Mt.Goode.This trip is also a great option for those seeking to dip their toes in higher elevation, since the pass itself is as 12,000ft. On a 2 day trek there is the option to camp near a beautiful mountain tarn nestled in the pass below Mount Agassiz. This trek can be done as a more strenuous 2 day trek, or a more relaxed 3 day "basecamp" style hike- where we can set up camp at Saddlerock or Bishop lake, and spend our second day exploring the pass with light daypacks where we can take in views Dusy Basin, the infamous Palisades and lakes below! For an extra challenge, this trek can also summit Mt Agassiz- an incredible and fun introduction to scrambling in the High Sierra. Standing at 13,899ft- just shy of a 14er, and with some of the most expansive views of the Palisade region. Mount Agassiz is one of the tallest peaks in the Sierras and ranks as the twenty-first tallest peak in California.

Duration & Additional Info

• 2-3 Days
• 13 Miles
• +/-3,000ft
• Time: 8:00 AM

Difficulty Rating & Description

DIFFICULTY RATING (1-5)

3

(3 Day Option Rating- 2, With Summit Rating- 4)

This trek follows well maintained trails and has a moderate hiking distance of 4-5 miles per day. Due to the elevation gain of this trek it is considered a moderate Level 2-3 trek (3 day trek option considered a Level 2 trek). Weight carried will be between 25-35 lbs per person. On Day 2 (3 day trek option) the hike to Bishop pass will be done in lighter daypacks to make this a more manageable "Basecamp" style trek!

What's Included

• Top-of-the-line tent, backcountry sleeping pad and multi-day backpack, headlamps, utensils and poles.
• High quality, synthetic sleeping bag (Laundered after every use- $15 cleaning fee) – or bring your own!
• Breakfast, lunch, and 4-course dinner prepared by your guide while in the field.
• Professional local mountain guide certified as Wilderness First Responder, Food Handling & Leave No Trace Principles with years of professional and personal wilderness experience and a passion for leading others.
• Wilderness and National park backcountry camping permits.
• Bear canisters for food storage.
• Water Filtration systems- all water filtered by your guide!
• Emergency equipment including an extensive first-aid kit and satellite communication device (InReach Explorer).
• For Yosemite National Park Treks: Mandatory 5% national park fee that passes through directly to Yosemite.
• A discount of 10% off any TrekSierra trip after your first!

Fitness Requirements

Previous backpacking experience is recommended. The ability to carry an overnight backpack for up to 5 miles a day with 1000-2000 feet of elevation gain for multiple days in a row. Good physical condition required.

Trip Highlights

• South Lake
• Long Lake
• Saddlerock Lake
• Bishop Lake
• Bishop Pass
• Chocolate Lake
• Option to Summit Mt. Agassiz (13891ft)

Cancelation Policy

Due to the high costs of outfitter/guide and government permits, all deposits are non refundable. We will attempt to reschedule you with a $100 per person change of date fee. In the unlikely event that TrekSierra must cancel a program you may reschedule for no fee or have your deposit refunded. No refunds will be made due to weather or route conditions. TrekSierra is not responsible for additional expenses incurred in preparing for a trip, including but not limited to: non-refundable airline tickets, equipment purchases, medical expenses, and hotel reservations. TrekSierra strongly encourages participants to obtain trip cancellation insurance. Coverage should include trip cancellation, baggage loss, non-refundable airline tickets, accident/life coverage, and travel days. TrekSierra also encourages participants to purchase medical, disability, life, and rescue insurance. TrekSierra does not provide any such insurance coverage and participants acknowledge it is their own responsibility to acquire insurance for themselves. All fees are due 30 days prior to departure date. Full refunds less a $250.00 registration fee are available more than 30 days prior. 50% refunds are given within 20-30 days of departure. No refunds are given within 20 days of the departure date. All refund requests must be received in writing/email. Late payments may result in the cancellation of a reservation with no refund given. No refunds will be given if any participants cannot complete the trip or end the trip early.

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