Noble Canyon this Saturday

[allison]

Well, after 3 out of 4 weekends devoted to racing, and the other devoted to family, we are ready to get out on the mountain bikes for a long day on a great trail. Since the weather has been decent and the trails should be cleared of snow and puddles, we're hitting up Noble Canyon this Saturday. Forecasted temps are mid-60s and sunny. It may be a bit chilly at the start, but have no fear, we'll warm up real quick.

So far the concensus is to do about a 30 mile ride with 5000ft of climbing. We'll most likely ride up the trail (Extra Credit) for the descent down Whore, cut over to the paved road and climb to the oak tree for a nice break. We'll traverse the fire road and climb up the Indian Creek singletrack, and continue climbing up Noble to Big Laguna for a loop around the lake. Then we'll head back down and descend Noble.

If you visit the link below (you may need to sign up for the site, but it's free and you won't get any spam from it) you can see our longest ride at Noble, which includes climbing up Indian Creek, and climbing up Noble all the way to BLT, doing a lap around the lake, then descending Noble and climbing up Whore to descend the rock garden known as Extra Credit.


[SIZE=2]http://www.geoladders.com/show_route.php?route=944[/SIZE][SIZE=2] [/SIZE]
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[SIZE=2]The ride will be at a higher elevation than most of us are used to. Should be a long day in the saddle! There is drinking water / pump near the BLT trailhead, but make sure you bring enough in case we don't end up following the ride above! Whether you run NoTubes or YesTubes, there are a few rocky sections so plan accordingly if you are tough on sidewalls or tubes. [/SIZE]
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We'll probably plan to meet at like 8-8:30 at the lower trailhead (you should be able to get directions from geoLadders, if not, see below), unless that is really bad for anyone. The earlier we start, though, the more time we'll have to enjoy the day, play on stunts and take photos!

Food at Manana's in Alpine following the ride (Mexican food, and I believe they have a small selection of bottled beers).

Directions if you will be heading South toward San Diego - whether from I-5 or I-15 take the 8 East freeway (you'll pass La Mesa, El Cajon, Alpine) to Pine Valley Road and make a Left. From Pine Valley Road turn left on Old Highway 80 (there's a market on the right). Then make a SHARP right onto Pine Creek Road. The trailhead parking is on the right side of the road across a short bridge. It's about a mile down the road.

For a preview of what you'll see and be able to tackle, check out the links to photos:


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[/SIZE][SIZE=2]http://mann.rcpics.net/noblecanyon/noblecanyon22.jpg[/SIZE][SIZE=2] [/SIZE]
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[/SIZE][SIZE=2]http://mann.rcpics.net/noblenov06/noble17.jpg[/SIZE][SIZE=2] [/SIZE]
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[/SIZE][SIZE=2]http://mann.rcpics.net/nc/nc29.jpg[/SIZE][SIZE=2] [/SIZE]
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BLT -

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And oh so much more!!

Full face helmet and extensive pads are not required, but feel free to strap them on if you want. Not sure what the pace will be like, but I imagine it may be varied. Those that are quicker can take more photos or enjoy the day. No one's going to be left behind. As an aside, I'm about 85-90% sure I will be riding the 33lbs Enduro I raced DH on last weekend, though it does have a granny ring. Justin will be on his 1x9 hard tail 29er.

Please RSVP if you're interested! I'd like to keep a head count on who all may be joining. Feel free to invite others as well, just let me know if you do and how many have agreed to go.
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[denmother]

Sounds like an awesome ride. Wish we could join you but we are heading out to Woodward for round #1 of the Cal State DH series. Hope to join up with you the next time you do it!!!

Den Mother