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An awesome run that travels to a secluded alpine lake with expansive views along the way.


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Map Key

9.3

Miles

14.9

KM

91%

Runnable

8,901' 2,713 m

High

8,295' 2,528 m

Low

1,381' 421 m

Up

1,380' 421 m

Down

6%

Avg Grade (3°)

18%

Max Grade (10°)

Dogs Off-leash

Features Lake · River/Creek · Views · Waterfall · Wildflowers · Wildlife

Overview

The run isn't for the lake, but for the views. Expansive vistas of nearby peaks makes this an amazing route.

Need to Know

The switchbacks on the ascent to Noble Lake are all exposed. Also, Noble Lake has only a few spots with shade - most of it is in the sun.

Runner Notes

Mostly loose dirt and rocks.

Description

Start by parking at the Ebbetts Pass Parking Lot. The trail starts flat, and then meets up with a junction with the PCT. Make sure to turn left (away from the highway), and not right (across the highway). Then, the trail starts to slope up and breaks out of the trees. Turn back into the trees and start to descend, then ascend.

At around mile 1.66, the trail starts to descend steeply. The trail then breaks out of the trees. To your right is a huge mountain range, with expansive views. Enjoy the views and continue descending toward the bottom of the valley. At around mile 2.33 (I think), you'll reach a huge rock jutting off the trail. This is an amazing viewpoint with a panorama of the surrounding peaks.

At the bottom of the valley, you'll cross Noble Creek and then start to ascend. The path turns into exposed, rocky switchbacks. Make sure to plan and run this part when the temperature isn't too high. After painful and long (but not steep) switchbacks, you'll reach a huge valley full of wildflowers.

After a minute of flat running, you'll reach Noble Lake. This lake is small and unappealing, but behind it is expansive views of the mountain that you just descended. After a minute relaxing near the lake, turn around and head back to the parking lot.

Contacts

Shared By:

Brady L

Trail Ratings

  5.0 from 1 vote

#1695

Overall
  5.0 from 1 vote
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Recommended Route Rankings

#245

in California

#1,695

Overall
2 Views Last Month
794 Since Jul 26, 2020
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Photos

Silver Peak from Pacific Crest Trail
Oct 11, 2019 near South L…, CA
Noble Lake
Oct 11, 2019 near South L…, CA
Looking towards Tryon Peak from Pacific Crest Trail
Oct 11, 2019 near South L…, CA
A viewpoint on the PCT near Ebbetts Pass.
Jul 26, 2020 near South L…, CA
Looking back from Noble Lake.
Jul 26, 2020 near South L…, CA
Sunrise over Ebbetts Pass
Jun 13, 2021 near South L…, CA

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