The Back Bay Loop Trail is one of the best spots in Orange County for scenic views and outdoor activity. Whether you're into hiking, biking, or running, this trail is a great option for all levels. It's especially beginner-friendly since there's very little elevation gain or loss. However, it is on the longer side, so I recommend coming prepared for a bit of distance. The views definitely make it worth it though. You can always ditch and go back to your car at any point if you find the hike too long. One of my favorite parts is that there are some great coffee shops you can stop by near different access points along the loop. The area also feels very safe. Overall, this is a perfect go-to trail if you're looking for something scenic and easy. read more

Back Bay Loop Trail - Parks Near Me - Newport Beach, California

Excellent trail for walking, running, biking. We started early- gets hot in summer (the obvious) but we caught a nice breeze walking back. Did 5 miles and then had a nice brunch down the road off Lido on the water . Beautiful surroundings. We even saw a few cars slowly drive by- it is not off limits for vehicles but we saw very few. read more

See all

Came on Sunday after brunch and it was not as crowded as expected. We were able to find parking in the main lot (free, open from 7am to sunset), which has multiple openings to different directions of the trail. Really can't go wrong with any, just follow the path (or other people walking!). Would recommend to wear sunscreen as there's no shaded areas throughout this trail. Fairly easy with minor hills, pets and bikers welcome! read more

Can't believe it's been over five years since my last review of this trail. My opinion stands strong that the Newport Back Bay is the coolest walking trail in Orange County. This little plot of land feels like a nature oasis, easily accessible, but hidden from the craziness that's Southern California. While I still enjoy a relaxing walk here, I've recently started paddle boarding the Newport Back Bay. I couldn't list a better location for paddleboarding. It feels like it's just you, the ocean, and tons of wildlife. You'll stumble upon jumping fish, crabs, stingray, and all types of unique birds. Such an incredible escape, crazy that it's right in the center of Newport Beach. read more

Nice little trail! Just wish they had more trash cans, had to carry Luckys poop bag, for a while. read more

See all

Great trail! Clean and easy path! Definitely adding to my list of favorite spots to hike.

What a great place to take a stroll or bike. There are diff't entrances so you can usually find parking depending on where you start. It's along the water so the weather is usually a little cooler. You can't go wrong enjoying a workout here. SYOY! read more

Great place to walk, whether that's a nice stroll, hike, or jog; at Back Bay, you can do it all!

This is a beautiful scenic trail that loops around body of water that extends further out to Upper Newport area if you choose to walk a longer distance. Hubby & I walked about 11 miles total completing both upper & back bay loop. This is definitely an easy flat trail for all levels. It's more of a "walk" than a "hike" bc there are no inclines. You will also see bike riders & pets on the trail as well. There's no shade so it's best to wear sunblock, shades, & a hat even if it doesn't feel as hot. I didn't wear sunblock last time & got a sunburn. Parking is plentiful even on weekends. I've been here several times on weekends & it's never been packed. read more

See all

Easy level paved trail in New Port! Saw a variety of different birds including storks. Fish in the bay. Saw Bat houses. Peter & Mary Muth Interpretive Center on site with parking and restrooms. Bikes, horses, and dogs allowed in trails. read more

See all

Beautiful day. The only problem is not a lot of to have a water refill also trash bin until 2 miles. read more

Back Bay Loop Trail - It was a beautiful day. - Parks Near Me - Newport Beach, California

This was a great, scenic ,flat loop to go hiking with friends. Dogs welcome! Bring some sun protection as this is not too shaded a hiking spot. Lots of wildlife and things to enjoy along the way. The loop is about 4 miles I believe (don't quote me) paved roads so bicycles are allowed. Watch out for animal waste. Parking is all over and in some spots crowded so plan ahead. Great hike! read more

See all

Signage is not clear for runners running this the first time to guide through the path. Had to stop and look to see and onetime for off path. read more

Training for a half marathon and this did the job! Although it is confusing to run in the neighborhood they do have run groups to take you and it's amazing. Views are great and it's a beautiful path read more

This spot is also called the Newport Back Bay. Residents live around the bay and have beautiful views in Orange County. - There is a campsite where you can park an RV or set up a tent not far from the Back Bay, giving you access to the trail. - The trail itself is fun! I took a scooter out there and just enjoyed being close with nature. read more

Great day for an easy hike/stroll by the bay. I've driven by here but never stopped to visit. I'm glad I finally did. Pet and kid friendly, parking was not an issue. We didn't do the whole loop but I would come back to do it again. read more

Back Bay Loop Trail - Parks Near Me - Newport Beach, California

See all

Great trail around sunset time. Not too many hills or anything, but very scenic and lots of wildlife to observe. read more

Ahh... the Back Bay Loop Trail is enjoyed by walkers, runners, cyclists... and everything in between. Convenient to coastal Orange County, this paved "trail" (bike/pedestrian path) is a good way to get some miles in. I generally find everyone pretty friendly and respectful, although sometimes there will be a speedy cyclist zooming by. If you need restrooms, there are restrooms at the Muth Nature Center (double check the times, as I believe they open at 6:00 a.m.). You may be able to find other restrooms along the trail (e.g. by Newport Dunes). 2023: 59/100 read more

Amazing World Class Trail.. When everybody leaves that is. I come here often especially for sunrise and Sunsets. I have one spot I particularly love and sit and just think while looking at the making views. I have had several personal experiences here including being at peace with my thoughts and even several daddy-daughter talks. You can run, bike skate and even drive through the back bay.. When the crowds of people who found this place on the internet are done taking their Instagram tphoto ops and leave, it becomes very peaceful and beautiful. So many sounds of nature and so many fragrances in the breeze. This has always been a special place for me throughout the decades. You will rarely find me here in the day. I am only here when others are not. The sun rises and sunsets and when the planes don't fly is when this spot becomes my second home. read more

See all

My friends and I come here with our coffees and go for walks. I would say that this is a great walking trail. If you want to just walk and not hike, then this is the trail for you. You can stop and see the beautiful views from all sides of the trail. I personally love coming here at sunset. The trial is clean and easy to access. Horses are allowed on the trail, so watch where you step! Overall, this is a great trail for having coffee and conversations. :) read more

See all

Absolutely love it here!! Most of the path is asphalt so if you're planning on bringing your dog make sure the weather isn't too hot. I've been bringing my dog here after work on weekdays around 4/5pm and the path is usually pretty open. Google maps takes you to the entrance of the loop and there's a sign that says there's no parking ahead but if you keep following the road, there's a small (20 spaces~) parking lot on the left for you to park at. read more

See all

A very well maintained and trafficked trail located in Costa Mesa/Newport area. The trail is shared by bikers, runners and hikers and the full loop is about 11 miles or so. Parking, if you're coming up/down from Jamboree, can be found on Eastbluff Rd or Bayview Way (same street as the Marriott). It's the perfect trail for after work on weekdays as it doesn't get too crowded. There's always a nice and cool breeze, so definitely a great way to unwind and catch the sunset/view. On the weekend though, it can get pretty busy, so come early in the morning if you don't want to deal with the crowd. read more

Back Bay Loop Trail - Parks Near Me - Newport Beach, California

See all

What a great place to get away for a quick run in or bike ride. Came here early in the morning and probally only saw 3 people tops. Beautiful scenery and clean crisp air. Parking was easy. I entered off a side street off Jamboree and just found a spot on the street before the gate and went from there. Unfortunately I probably only ran about a mile or so then turned back. My dog was with me and she rather walk and run. It was also sprinkling and we both got wet. Next time I'd probally go with a group or on my bike. read more

See all

Probably one of my favorite hikes. I like that it is paved so it was stroller friendly. I also liked that there are clearly marked paths for pedestrians and cyclists so the chance of my 4 year old getting in the way of speeding cyclists is none. Easy free parking available on the street by Newport Dunes Waterfront Resort. It is peaceful and scenic. It connects on to the Mountains to Sea trail. I did not manage to get very far with the heat and little ones but it was a fantastic hour spent on the trail. After which we cooled down at the beach! read more

See all

Avete voluto la biccletta? Adesso pedala! Mostly flat, except for a steep hill on Eastbluff Dr.(the street that University Dr. turns into). Started the ride on Irvine Ave. and University Dr.(on the Northeastern side of the river) where there was plenty of parking available. Got new bikes from the holidays but finally rode them... and ohhhhh boy! Great place to try them out and work out the kinks. The lot was like 90% full on a Sunday afternoon but the trail itself was not saturated at all. Saw a lot people working out on foot and a couple horses before Jamboree (next to where the Marriott was) before on the street portion into the Eastbluff trailhead. New bike going down the trailhead was scary AF. Great way to test the breaks as there were a lot of people IN THE MIDDLE OF THE ROAD going down, but it was freaking fun... Anyways. Please be careful once you enter the trailhead here while going downstream with the river - cars are allowed to come up the road and some people were on the middle of the road... but it is a one way only for cars coming through, their speed limit was like 5 mph, and they were super sparse coming through. Got to jamboree and the PCH before cramps started... sooo just went back up the same way I came. Yes, I walked the bike up the hill on the Eastbluff entrance. I ain't no Lance Armstrong. Anyways. 11/10 - cool little views on the way up and down and awesome place to break in the new bikes. read more

Back Bay Loop Trail - On the northern bridge crossing on Jamboree - Parks Near Me - Newport Beach, California

See all

This is a must!!! Such great views and my god the amount of people it's like a really good way to work out or just mingle!

Beautiful trail open year round that is great for walking or biking!! I highly recommend the area!!

I'm so happy I can finally say I've completed the entire "Back Bay Loop" trail. I've done parts of it (i.e. Lower Newport Bay, Upper Newport Bay, etc.) but never the whole 10.5 mile loop in its entirety until Saturday, February 6, 2021, that is! For my first run, it took me longer than expected to finish the 10.5 mile loop - just under 2 hours (as noted by my "Map My Run" app visualization) but that's because I stopped to take selfies and photos for this Yelp Review. LOL. The course is flat and fast; I'm already gearing up for a better time for my next run. This multi-use loop is perfect for walkers + runners, but also for cyclists/road bikers. It should be noted that the Back Bay Loop trail isn't really a hiking trail. There are hiking trails along the loop (Upper Newport Bay Nature Preserve), but mostly this loop is paved and even takes you along neighborhood streets (per All Trails). I do not suggest All Trails for parking recommendations as the lot at the trailhead, the Back Bay Science Center, is closed. Because this is a loop, there are multiple entry and exit points. You can parallel park along Jamboree + Bay View, at the Upper Newport parking lot or even parallel park on Back Bay Drive at Shellmaker. I read online that "the Back Bay Loop Trail also links with the 22-mile Mountains to Sea trail - this National Recreational Trail runs from Upper Newport Bay through Irvine past Peters Canyon Reservoir and into the rugged mountains of Weir Canyon north of Irvine Regional Park." The Back Bay Loop trail is a well-maintained + flat pavement which make it easy and fun for all levels of fitness to enjoy nature and the beautiful estuary views. I highly recommend adding "The Back Bay Loop" to your Yelp Bookmark list. read more

See all

i had a difficult time finding where to start with this loop trail. maps took me to the trail head where it was just in the middle of a road/where boats enter. If you enter the trail with your car on accident like me, you can take the first road on the right and park there and then walk. It was quite beautiful and there's side trails you can find and explore! read more

Back Bay Loop Trail - Parks Near Me - Newport Beach, California

See all

This trail is good if you enjoy biking, running, roller skates & walking...on a concrete road is multi use, including cars that can only go one way from Dover all the way to Jamboree if you U-turn and try to drive back, you driving the wrong way and will be flagged by all using the trail warning you and/or Police called on as I overheard one couple talking & snapping shots of someone's License plate, who was driving the wrong way. The other issues are selfish bicyclists riding on the designated pedestrian area, a couple times we were forced to move into the bicycle lane because of their pushiness. One family putting their small child in danger as he was riding his bike over the rocky graveled trail close to the bushes! For the most part, pedestrians were more respectful, but definitely not the bicyclists nor drivers who were hauling ass thru there! It's supposed to be 15 mph, as it's extremely narrow. Well, that's why I deleted a star & also that there's no inclines because it's a flat preserve, not a hill or canyon. But for the peaceful walk, & being less crowded (it was a Sunday before a holiday so who knows) and the long distance uninterrupted by lots street lights, it's 4 star worthy. There is also parts of dirt trails, not sure of the distance. Saw birdies galore and heard critters throughout. That's about it. read more

See all

It was perfect, not overly crowded . The views motivated me to run more . I am so glad I found this place . read more

Back Bay Loop Trail - Amazing , beautiful perfect place to run ! - Parks Near Me - Newport Beach, California

Back Bay is one of the most peaceful, beautiful untouched places left in So. Cal. I've run/walked the Back Bay once before and because of work and other obligations I forgot it existed but I visited last week because we're on lockdown and I needed a place to exercise and it was the perfect place to get an uninterrupted run/walk in with a gorgeous view and hardly and noise. I did one stretch of road and back and it was 6 miles total. I completed this in 1 hour 38 minutes just walking it briskly. Right now the road is closed off to cars so you'll need only to keep an eye out for cyclists. There are plenty of signs reminding everyone to keep their social distance, but for the most part it's not as crowded as other places I've seen. Back Bay in general is a great place to kayak and stand-up paddle board with incredible views that instantly bring you a sense of calm and awe. read more

See all

10/10 trail, the best short trail in Orange County in terms of parking, views, and layout. Restrooms at the visitor center, end of the trail that leads into the neighborhood has a waterfall and great views but can be flooded. read more

Very beautiful, peaceful hike with my granddaughter highly recommend! Can't wait to visit again read more

Back Bay Loop Trail - Community of ducks - Parks Near Me - Newport Beach, California

My favorite local trail to walk in the evenings. It is very well maintained, paved, safe, and ample parking at multiple points along the trail. read more

See all

Had a little difficulty finding where the entrances are but once I was on the loop, I realised there's quite a few places to enter. This is a nice paved trail perfect for road biking, jogging, walking the pup....... Definitely a place for workout enthusiast. Quite a beautiful view of the bay from many areas as well. read more

Back Bay Loop Trail - Hello bay - Parks Near Me - Newport Beach, California

I had a nice walk with a friend and sat in a café. Had a snack and drink. Very nice outing.

Came here about a weekend ago, met up with a friend and we enjoyed the serenity and atmosphere here will taking a little hike/stroll. Make sure you guys plan where to meet since there are diff entry points lol. Good amount of people on the path but also not overcrowded so just right. Definitely coming back whenever I want to meet up for a chill activity/workout! read more

I wanted to find a new bike trail where I can take my kids biking and be safe at the same time.We usually bike either on Belmont Shore bike trail, Bolsa Chica bike trail or El Dorado park. After looking at the pictures and reviews this seemed like a perfect new place to visit and experience so we decided to give it a go. The bike trail "loop" isn't really a complete designated bike loop. 75% of the bike loop is indeed a designated path for biking, jogging, walking, etc. the other 25% of the loop is down right extremely dangerous to bike as it is on major streets with lots of traffic and maniacs speeding by. The 75% of the true bike trail is indeed amazing as it provides gorgeous views of the bay. However, there are four major streets that you have to travel on if you want to complete the so called "loop". Jamboree, Irvine, Dover, and PCH. None of which have a designated bike trail besides your normal bike lanes which no driver respects anyway. This made it a very stressful bike ride for my wife and I trying to keep our kids safe and protected, mind you they're not that little anymore... 8 year old and 12 year old. Also, the trail is very poorly marked with signage and you can easily make a wrong turn, which we did a couple times. We didn't realize this until we had to stop and look at our map. Lastly, in hindsight if I was going to do this again with my family and the thing I would suggest to anyone that wants to do this with their kiddos is to start at the trailhead in the Science Center and make your way backwards counterclockwise. Once reaching the end of the trail at Irvine Blvd. turn around and come back the same way. This way you stay stay safe, on the trail and you get 12 miles of biking rather than 10.5 miles. I hope this review helps someone that is planning to go for the first time and most importantly go with their kids. Cheers read more

The only thing that bugs me is how fast the cars drive through here. But other than that great place for walks, biking, or skating. Love coming here to get a little break from all the hustle and bustle. read more