Big Laguna Loop via Nobel Canyon Trailhead -Laguna Mountains
Beginner XC -
We start at the Nobel Canyon Trailhead on Sunrise Highway in Cleveland National Forest
PLEASE NOTE AN ADVENTURE PASS IS REQUIRED FOR PARKING!
Adventure passes may be purchased at sporting good stores and cost $5/day or $30/year.
From the Nobel Canyon Trailhead we cross the street and ride a gentle climb. At the top we ride along a beautiful Alpine. The trail is AWESOME, twisting in and out of the alpine forest, through grasslands, over rocks and fun dips. It is a fantastic beginner ride everyone can enjoy. Close to the mid-point we'll see Big Laguna Lake. Sadly, it's nothing spectacular due to summer cows stomping all vegetation. It's sad to see such a pristine location trampled under hundreds of hoofs. Nevertheless, we'll continue on to the �Lake in the Woods'.
Like Big Laguna Lake, this was a beautiful pristine pond a few years ago. There were cattails, ducks, birds and all sorts of varied water plants in the small pond. That changed when they let the cows in. It's not as trampled as Big Laguna Lake, but the before and after is dramatic. Just before the Lake in the Woods will be our devo. We'll go to a very cool Rock formation which has caves and Indian grinding bowls. If you look closely, you may also find Indian Pottery Shards. Going back is the same, as this is an �out and back' ride. The elevation gain is minor with gentle rolling hills.
NOTE Helmets are MANDATORY on all RockMTB rides NO EXCEPTIONS.
This includes EVERYONE! The person who left their helmet on the table at home... Please dont put us in the unfortunate position of not letting you ride. Besides, you will not be allowed on the mountain without one. We care deeply about everyones health and have seen too many examples of why helmets are needed.
What to bring:1. HELMET no helmet, NO RIDE, no exceptions.
2. WATER at lease 50-80 oz.
3. FOOD - this is a relatively short ride but we recommend some "food/energy" bars as a snack.
4. TUBES - At least 1 or 2.
5. CAMERA optional but it is spectacular scenery. We will be taking pictures and helmet camming the ride.
6. SUNSCREEN.
7. SUNGLASSES.
8.ADVENTURE PASS REQUIRED TO PARK YOU CAR. You can buy a day pass for $5 at sporting goods stores or an annual pass for $30. Purchase your pass BEFORE the ride we will not be driving near a location to purchase them.
8. PRAYER
Directions:Take 8 East going past the Cuyamaca exit. Continue on 8 a few more miles and pass the Pine Valley exit. The next exit is Sunrise Highway � take this exit and go left (North) up Sunrise Highway. Continue up Sunrise Highway for several miles. You will crest the hill and pass through a VERY small town � there is a market and ranger station here (if you need an Adventure Pass � though it may not be opened). Continue a few more miles passing the �Big Laguna Campground� on your left. About 1-2 more miles on your right (right after a Cow Grate in the road) is a large parking lot. This is the Nobel Canyon trailhead � park here.
