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Noble Canyon Trail

Part of Hiking Trails, our guide to hiking trails across San Diego County, from city peaks to desert canyons.

Noble Canyon Trail, Trail 5E04, runs nearly 10 miles one way, or 15 with the BLT connection. The Forest Service rates it strenuous, a full day, with ledge-hugging switchbacks, steep slopes and jagged rocks. Mountain bikers and trail runners use it too. Pets are allowed. Best in fall, spring and winter.Checked October 23, 2026.

10 mione way
StrenuousForest Service rating
Full daytime needed
TrailTrail 5E04
Upper endSunrise Highway, 13.5 miles north of I-8 near Pine Valley; park in paved turnouts
Lower end1.2 miles north of Pine Valley on Olde Highway 80, then 1.6 miles north on Pine Creek Road
SeasonFall, spring and winter
Pass“Adventure Pass Required if parking at the Noble Canyon Trailhead”
Who it suitsStrong adult hikers; shared with mountain bikes
DogsPets allowed: yes
Official pageCleveland National Forest page (updated August 6, 2026)

What to Expect

The page describes “nearly 10-miles (one way) of ledge hugging switchbacks, steep slopes, and jagged rocks,” and notes “finishing the ride can occasionally require some walking.” Fire danger on the Forest Service page banner read “High” on 2026-10-23.

What We Could Not Verify

  • Elevation gain is not stated on the page. Heat and snake guidance is not on the page. Cleveland National Forest can confirm.
  • Coordinates are not confirmed.

More in Hiking Trails

FAQ

Is Noble Canyon only for bikers?

No. The Forest Service says hikers, trail runners and mountain bikers use it.

Sources

  1. Cleveland National Forest: Noble Canyon Trail

Checked October 23, 2026 by It’s San Diego. Cite this page: It’s San Diego (itssandiego.com), checked October 23, 2026. Free to quote with a link to this page; tables are licensed CC BY 4.0.