Noble Canyon

Experienced mountain bikers in San Diego consider Noble Canyon one of the best rides in the region. It is technically a difficult track because it is single and narrow and there are a number of tough rocks and switchbacks along the way. Riders get to travel through three different ecosystems ranging from an alpine meadow and groupings of oak trees, to the Southern California chapparal and finally into the desert. Some riders enjoy hitting the trail when there are still some parts that are snow covered. It is exciting to start a ride in the winter and finish up in the heat of the desert with temperatures soaring near 90 degrees. The ride is considered advanced and not for novice riders, but intermediate riders have been known to tackle it with the understanding of walking during a few of the more challenging portions. You can reach Noble Canyon via shuttle and start at the upper trailhead or you can begin at the lower trailhead near the Pine Creek Picnic Area and climb up the mountain. The final option is the Laguna Noble ride that ends near the General Store in Pine Valley. The hazards of the ride include steep drop offs and intense heat, so bring plenty of water and lather up on the sunblock, even if temperatures feel cool at the beginning of the ride.