Big Laguna Trail (BLT) Review: California's Cycling Gem

Tucked within California's peninsular ranges lies the Big Laguna Trail, an epitome of scenic beauty and delightful biking experience. Based in Pine Valley, California, this trail promises a perfect blend of natural beauty and exhilarating rides.

Overview

• Distance: 8 mi
• Level: Intermediate
• Route type: Loop
• City: Pine Valley
• State: California

Trail Highlights

Winding through the peninsular ranges, roughly an hour east of San Diego, BLT offers:

• A swift, enjoyable singletrack surrounded by captivating landscapes.
• A brief ascent through a pine forest opening up to a vast meadow, home to cows and wildflowers for much of the year. During wetter months, this transforms into a natural lake.
• Several spur trails, with choices to make post-meadow crossing. Opt for a left to encounter a serene pond or a right for a different view of the meadow.
• A continued journey on the main trail leads through another meadow, forest patches, and some cattle gates. Do ensure the gates are closed after passing.
• The trail's culmination involves a climb leading to a dirt road crossing, followed by a thrilling downhill stretch, ending at the paved road. Turning left here leads back to the starting point.

Of special note, many refer to trails in this region as the Big Laguna Trail. The segment reviewed here traces the eastern side of the Laguna Meadow, linking multiple southern spur trails to this "primary" trail in the network. While this part is relatively flat, the short elevations combined with occasional rocks and roots offer a contrasting yet engaging terrain.

Getting There

For enthusiasts eager to experience this, the route is fairly straightforward:

• From San Diego, travel east on I-8 past Alpine.
• Take the Sunrise Highway exit and turn left.
• After some time, halt at the Penny Pines trailhead parking area, which is also the starting point for the well-known Noble Canyon trail.
• On the road's south side, there's a clear trail. After a short distance, take the left trail. Taking the right or continuing straight leads to Noble Canyon.

Cyclists' Perspective

• "One of the most picturesque biking spots near San Diego. The panoramic views, from the Anza-Borrego desert to the Pacific Ocean, are unparalleled."
• "BLT stands out as an exceptional 'beginner' trail owing to its length and awe-inspiring scenery. Highly recommended for anyone in or around San Diego."
• "The network around Big Laguna is a perfect blend of easy rides and breathtaking views. However, new riders might find route-finding a tad challenging due to numerous intersecting trails."
• "A great summer spot, especially when combined with Noble Canyon or linked to the Cuyamaca Trails."
• "This area boasts one of San Diego's finest singletracks, with trails meandering between tall pines and lush meadows. Exploration is advised."

In a nutshell, the Big Laguna Trail offers an immersive biking experience, seamlessly merging the raw beauty of nature with the thrill of cycling. Prepare to be enchanted!