The imposing road snakes 1,020 feet (3,348 meters) from the Piedra de Molino mountain pass down into the valley of the Escoipe River. Driving or riding along the road offers excellent views of Cachí mountain and the Cafayate Gorge and (with luck) the chance of spotting condors. Day tours from Salta to Cafayate and the Calchaquí Valley typically travel along Bishop’s Slope, including photo stops.
Although Bishop’s Slope is a dirt road, a four-wheel drive vehicle is unnecessary.
Stay hydrated to minimize the effects of altitude sickness.
If you are a nervous driver, you can rent a car and driver to take you up the hill.
Bishop's Slope is around 62 miles (100 kilometers) southwest of Salta, along Ruta Provincial 33. Continuing another 40 miles (64 kilometers) along the road will take you to the attractive desert town of Cachi
You can drive or ride the hill all year round but should avoid the rainy season, especially January and February, as it often closes due to fallen rocks on the road. Avoid driving late in the day, as clouds often obscure the views right before the sunset.
Just a 40-minute drive west of Bishop’s Slope, Los Cardones National Park takes its name from the cardón, a giant cactus species growing across the park’s expansive valley. The sprawling park features hills, sierras, and ravines and is noted for its well-preserved dinosaur tracks and fossils. Wildlife includes guanaco and more than 100 bird species, including the condor.