Back Bay Loop Trail
A scenic loop trail offering peaceful nature walks, abundant wildlife, and stunning sunset views in Newport Beach.
Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, cooler temps
Back Bay Loop Trail
Best Time
Fewer crowds, cooler temps
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A scenic loop trail offering peaceful nature walks, abundant wildlife, and stunning sunset views in Newport Beach.
"Such a beautiful area to ground yourself! Hiking trails with views and wildlife at every turn."
Bring Water & Snacks 💧
Especially for longer walks or bike rides, stay hydrated and fueled. Some visitors get hungry and cut their trips short!
Dog-Friendly Fun 🐾
This trail is a great spot for a dog walk, particularly during sunset. Keep your furry friends leashed.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Sunset Views
Various points along the trail
Experience breathtaking sunsets painting the sky over the bay. A favorite for photographers and romantic strolls.
Wildlife Spotting
Upper Newport Bay Nature Reserve
Observe diverse bird species and other local wildlife in their natural habitat. Keep an eye out for egrets and shorebirds.
Scenic Bike Ride
The entire loop
Enjoy a peaceful, scenic bike ride with dedicated paths. Perfect for a leisurely cruise or a more vigorous workout.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything
Parking & Access
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Bring Water & Snacks 💧
Especially for longer walks or bike rides, stay hydrated and fueled. Some visitors get hungry and cut their trips short!
Dog-Friendly Fun 🐾
This trail is a great spot for a dog walk, particularly during sunset. Keep your furry friends leashed.
Watch for Bikers 🚴♀️
The path is shared, so be mindful of cyclists, especially when driving or walking.
Capture the Views :camera:
The natural beauty makes it a prime spot for plein air painting and photography.
Tips
from all over the internet
Bring Water & Snacks 💧
Especially for longer walks or bike rides, stay hydrated and fueled. Some visitors get hungry and cut their trips short!
Dog-Friendly Fun 🐾
This trail is a great spot for a dog walk, particularly during sunset. Keep your furry friends leashed.
Watch for Bikers 🚴♀️
The path is shared, so be mindful of cyclists, especially when driving or walking.
Capture the Views :camera:
The natural beauty makes it a prime spot for plein air painting and photography.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the Back Bay Loop Trail's stunning natural beauty, abundant wildlife, and peaceful atmosphere, making it ideal for sunset walks and scenic bike rides. While some find parking can be a hassle and caution bikers to be aware of others, the overall experience is highly praised for its grounding and picturesque qualities.
"Such a beautiful area to ground yourself! Hiking trails with views and wildlife at every turn. I was there to plein air oil paint and it was hard to choose where to start. If you visit, plan to stay a few hours and visit the Muth Interpretive Center’s gift shop. Support local and buy a painting or souvenir!"
DorothyGail Scott
"Great walking area that is best at sunset!"
Gavin Raetz
"Best trail to drive on with your top down"
Veronica Ramirez
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Back Bay Loop Trail is accessible from various points, including Newport Beach and areas near Vanguard University. You can park at Castaways Park or the Upper Newport Bay Nature Reserve.
Parking recommendations vary. Some suggest parking by the seashore lots, while others find Back View Park convenient. Be prepared for potential parking fees, especially during peak seasons.
Yes, the trail is well-integrated with bikeways and pedestrian paths. It starts in Newport and extends inland, offering clear signage for navigation.
Absolutely! The trail is a popular starting point for many in Newport Beach, offering a refreshing escape from the beach scene.
While specific public transport routes aren't detailed, the trail's proximity to urban areas suggests local bus services might be an option. It's best to check local transit schedules.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to the Upper Newport Bay Nature Reserve, which encompasses parts of the trail, may have a vehicle fee, particularly from April to October. Walk-ins or bike-ins might be free or have a lower cost.
The trail itself is generally accessible during daylight hours. The Muth Interpretive Center has specific operating hours, and it's recommended to check those if you plan to visit.
No advance booking is typically required for general access to the trail. It's a public space, though specific events or guided tours might require registration.
Discounts are not commonly advertised for general trail access. However, local resident passes or group rates might be available for specific facilities within the nature reserve.
The loop trail can vary in length depending on the specific route taken. Some sections are around 2.8 miles, while others can be shorter, like the 0.25-mile Sunset Point Loop.
🎫 🚶 Onsite Experience
The terrain is generally flat and paved or well-maintained, making it suitable for walking, jogging, and biking. Some sections might be slightly unpaved but are still easy to navigate.
Yes, the flat and accessible paths are great for families. The shorter loops, like Sunset Point, are perfect for little legs.
You can spot a variety of birds, including egrets, shorebirds, and waterfowl. Keep an eye out for other local fauna in the preserve.
Restrooms are typically available at visitor centers and designated parking areas within the nature reserve.
Sunrise and sunset offer the most dramatic lighting for photography. The golden hour provides beautiful, soft light for capturing the landscape and wildlife.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
While the trail itself is a nature preserve, you're close to Newport Beach and its numerous dining options. Many visitors enjoy grabbing a bite after their walk or bike ride.
Picnic areas are often available within nature reserves or parks. It's advisable to check for designated picnic spots and any regulations regarding food.
You won't find cafes directly on the trail, but nearby areas in Newport Beach offer plenty of coffee shops and eateries to refuel.
📸 📸 Photography
The trail offers stunning views of the bay, diverse birdlife, and beautiful sunsets. The Muth Interpretive Center also has a gift shop with local art.
Absolutely. The open vistas of the bay, the marshlands, and the distant hills provide excellent opportunities for landscape shots, especially during the golden hours.
Yes, the abundance of birdlife makes it a fantastic spot for wildlife photography. Remember to maintain a respectful distance and use a zoom lens.
Early morning and late afternoon/evening (sunset) provide the best light for photography, minimizing harsh shadows and creating a warm, inviting atmosphere.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
It's a great alternative to the beach, offering a different kind of natural beauty. The Muth Interpretive Center can also provide engaging exhibits for kids interested in local ecology. Remember to keep an eye on children, especially near the water's edge, and ensure they stay on designated paths.
Budget Travelers
Bring your own water and snacks to avoid purchasing them at inflated prices. This is a perfect destination for a picnic lunch, allowing you to save money while enjoying the scenic surroundings. It’s a way to experience the beauty of Orange County without the high costs associated with theme parks or popular beach resorts.
Dog Owners
Remember to always keep your dog on a leash, as required by park regulations, and be sure to clean up after them. The paved and packed dirt trails are comfortable for paws, and the scenic views provide a pleasant backdrop for your outing. It’s a great way to get some exercise with your furry friend in a beautiful natural setting.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Upper Newport Bay Nature Reserve
Beyond the loop trail, the reserve offers opportunities for kayaking and paddleboarding on the bay, allowing for a different perspective of the ecosystem. The trails are generally well-maintained, with paved sections and some packed dirt paths, making them suitable for most fitness levels. It’s a place where you can truly ground yourself and connect with nature, a welcome contrast to the bustling beaches nearby.
Remember to check the reserve's official website for any specific regulations, trail closures, or program schedules. Supporting the reserve through donations or purchases at the gift shop helps in its conservation efforts. It’s a community treasure that offers a serene and educational experience for all who visit.
Biking the Back Bay Loop Trail
Cyclists often start their journey from various access points, including those near Newport Beach or Back View Park. The loop can be customized to your desired length, with options ranging from shorter circuits to longer rides that can extend for miles inland. It’s a popular route for training, with some runners and bikers using it for consistent mileage.
When biking, it’s crucial to be aware of other trail users, including pedestrians and other cyclists. While the path is generally wide, courtesy and clear communication are key. Many riders find the sunset rides particularly rewarding, as the changing light casts a beautiful glow over the bay.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit