Bishop Creek Canal

The canals located around Bishop offer many opportunities to enjoy a leisurely afternoon hike. One of the most popular canal hikes is located off Line Street, just outside of the downtown area. This 3 mile loop (which can be shortened or extended to your desire) offers a scenic hike beside the canal lined with large deciduous trees and views of the majestic Sierra Nevada Mountains in the distance.

To begin, park outside the gate (don’t block it) and then walk through the pedestrian entrance beside the gate. You’ll follow a dirt road as it parallels the canal. The road is closed to most vehicles, but on occasion you may see someone from Los Angeles Water and Power driving the road.

Continue hiking alongside Bishop Creek Canal. You’ll cross over a cattle guard and into some pasture land where you’ll likely see cows. Keep following the canal in a southerly direction until you reach a main gravel road, Gus Cashbaugh Lane. Turn left and leave the canal.

Follow this gravel road until you come to a 4 way junction. Turn left again. You’ll be back on a dirt road that follows a small waterway ditch until it ultimately loops around and reconnects again with the main canal.

You’re now back on a familiar trail. Turn right and follow the canal to retrace your steps back to the parking area.