San Luis Obispo’s beautiful landmarks, from left to right, Madonna Mountain (Cerro San Luis Obispo), Cal Poly P, and Bishop’s Peak. Graphic courtesy of junior Athena Sterios.
The infamous San Luis Obispo tradition, the Tri-Tip Challenge, includes three hikes and one delicious meal. This year, students are embracing the ultimate test of stamina and passion, hiking the Cal Poly P, Bishop Peak, and Madonna Mountain before finishing it all off with a tri-tip sandwich from the local hot-spot Firestone Grill.
This tradition has spread throughout SLO county and has grown in popularity among college students, high schoolers, and locals all around! Combining scenic views, community involvement, SLO pride, and serious strength, hikers take on the challenge one mountain and one mile at a time.
Covering approximately 12 miles of hiking across the three iconic peaks and about a total elevation gain of 4,798 feet, this challenge has the potential to pose as an intense workout. Only fit for the bravest and strongest to endure all three peaks.
“I think its so impressive for those who can do all three hikes, especially all in one day,” says junior Sama Alzraiee.
With no necessary order, some recommend the Cal Poly P first, Madonna Mountain second, and Bishops Peak last in order of easiest to hardest. Some hikers choose to bike in between trails to push themselves to the limit!
The Cal Poly P is the easiest of the three, only 0.9 miles with moderate elevation gain. Madonna Mountain, officially known as Cerro San Luis, is 3.2 miles west of the Cal Poly P. It is the second peak and slighter harder with approximately 4 miles round-trip. The final and most difficult of the hikes is Bishop’s Peak. It is the highest point in San Luis Obispo County and the tallest of the nine sisters. This peak overlooks spectacular views of the city of SLO, Morro Rock, and the Pacific Ocean on clear days.
After a long and physically straining day, hikers end the challenge by getting the popular fan favorite tri-tip sandwich from Firestone Grill.
Summer is coming up, and it is a great time to take part in this challenge. Temperatures rise and days get longer, there’s no better time to grab your friends and family and take on the Tri-Tip Challenge, rewarding yourself with a delicious sandwich after.
“It’s definitely a part of my summer bucket list!” exclaims senior Ariel Gatti.
For many SLOHS like Gatti, the Tri-Tip Challenge is more than just a local hiking tradition, it’s about making memories before graduation. Combining tradition, challenge, and celebration, this is an event made to unite.
“I think it’s such a cool local tradition and brings the community together,” says senior Bronwyn McDiarmid.
Whether you’re chasing some good views, the challenge, nature, or the well-earned sandwich at the finish line, the Tri-Tip Challenge continues to be a symbol of San Luis Obispo. Just remember it’s never too late to take on the Tri-Tip Challenge — SLO style.
