Ebbetts Pass to Noble Lake Via PCT

Dogs Off-leash

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

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

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.

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 hike 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 hiking, 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.