Cuyamaca to Noble Canyon
Julian, California
View the Cuyamaca to Noble Canyon Epic Slideshow
The beaches of Southern California have long been the epicenter of non-traditional, dynamic sports. From the early longboard surfers who molded the beach culture in the 60's, to skater dudes pulling tricks and defining a generation in the 80's, SoCal has been the place for pioneers to push the creative limits of athletics and culture. Not to be outdone, a strong core group of mountain bikers in the area has helped create and popularize an amazing network of trails and fire roads along the spine of the Santa Rosa Mountains.
This IMBA Epic unfolds in the Cleveland National Forest near the former gold mining town of Julian, California. It connects trails established centuries ago by the Kumeyaay Indians, and crosses into the awe-inspiring Noble Canyon. From snow-patched pine forests to fiery high desert canyons, riders will experience the full range of California terrain and climactic conditionsjust about everything except the clean-up set at Swami's.
Location: The Cuyamaca to Noble Canyon ride is located in the Cleveland National Forest approximately 50 miles east of San Diego. Julian is the closest town to the trailhead.
Length: 30 miles
Elevation: 4,000 to 5,500 ft
Climbing: 4,000 ft
Terrain: singletrack, fire road, steep climbs, technical descents, mix of mountains and deserts
Season: Snow may be present at higher elevations during the winter. Summer months mean hot temperatures over the entire route
Highlight: Descending the legendary Noble Canyon
Details: San Diego Mountain Bike Guide by Daniel Greenstadt
Club: San Diego Mountain Bike Association, 619-804-3861, http://www.sdmba.com
Shop: Bike USA, La Mesa, 619-461-9680
Lodging: Julian Chamber of Commerce, 760-765-1857, http://www.julianca.com
Brew: Stone Brewing Company, the home of Arrogant Bastard Ale
Coffee: Descanso Junction Restaurant
Event: Julian Bicycle Festival; held mid-May every year
Must do: Eat apple pie in Julian
