The Nine Sisters Peaks

The Nine Sisters Peaks are a group of extinct volcanic plugs, also known as morros. Over 20 million years old, they make stunning punctuation marks along our Central Coast landscape, following a line from southeast San Luis Obispo 12 miles west to the Pacific. We were inspired to use them for our name because they contribute so much beauty, history and environmental importance to our area.  This photo shows Cerro San Luis (also known as Madonna Mountain), with the city of San Luis Obispo at its base.

The Nine Sisters form a rare geological alignment.  There are rocky mounts of similar age and type elsewhere in America, but few can be so easily observed.  They provide unique habitats for countless species of plants and animals. The peaks are also sacred to our local Chumash Indian tribe, with a long history of habitation and reverence.  Several peaks are open to hikers.

Morro Rock is perhaps the most famous of the Nine Sisters. At 576 feet, it marks the entrance to the harbor at Morro Bay and has been a navigational aid for sailors for centuries.  It's an unmistakable landmark for the city of Morro Bay and is often shrouded in mist and circling pelicans and gulls.  As a protected bird sanctuary, it is home to the Peregrine Falcon.

Bishop Peak is the tallest at 1,559 feet and very popular with hikers. Those who tackle the steep trails winding to the top are rewarded with incredible views of San Luis Obispo, the campus of Cal Poly University, and the nearby ocean.

The other peaks are Black Hill, Cerro Cabrillo, Cerro Romauldo, Cerro San Luis, Chumash Peak, Hollister Peak and Islay Hill.  Davidson Seamount is technically one of the sisters, but it's only visable to sea creatures and divers as it is submerged in the ocean off Morro Bay.  

Photos courtesy of Creative Commons.