Big Laguna Trail

Area Status: Open

Big Laguna Trail

Trail Views

Elevation Gain	1000 ft
Distance	10 Mile loop
Pets Allowed	Yes
Fees	$5 for Adventure pass (depending on parking location at Campgrounds)
Hike Time	5 hours
Difficulty	Moderate - Difficult
Best Seasons	Year round
Location	Penny Pines/Noble Canyon Trailhead - 12000 Sunrise Hwy. Pine Valley, CA 91962
Ranger District	Descanso Ranger District - (619) 445-6235

With exotic wildflowers, panoramic mountain views, and the blissful tranquility that only Mother Nature can provide, The Big Laguna Trail is a rare find in the greater San Diego area. Conveniently located 13 miles north of I-8 on Sunrise Highway, this 10-mile loop traverses oak and pine woodlands, vast meadows, and during certain seasons, a clear blue lake.

For more information on hiking or camping on this trail, please see our article on highlights and special features, which can be found here: Spotlight: The Big Laguna Trail

For a list of more trails to explore in your area, please see our Recreation Trail Guide

Trail Views

At a Glance

Fees:	$5/vehicle/day
Operated By:	Forest Service

General Information

Directions: To reach the upper end, take Sunrise Highway from I-8 (near Pine Valley) and drive north 13.5 miles to just past the second cattle guard on the highway. Vehicles should park on either side of the highway on the paved turnouts. The access to the Big Laguna trail is via the Nobel Canyon trail that departs the western turnout and is marked by a small sign. Follow the Nobel Canyon trail about 100 yards to reach the Big Laguna trail junction. The other end of the Big Laguna trail makes a junction with the Pacific Crest Trail about 1/4 mile northeast of the Laguna Station (the Forest Service fire station).