If you’re looking for a scenic ride with incredible views, the Back Bay Loop Trail in Newport Beach is a gem you shouldn’t miss. As an avid biker, I often ride this scenic trail. It’s become one of my favorite spots to visit when I need a break from the hustle and bustle.
The Back Bay Loop Trail is about 10 miles long, wrapping around the Upper Newport Bay. What I love most about this trail is how it offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and a well-maintained paved path. It’s also great for walking or jogging.
I usually start my ride from Irvine and take the Peters Canyon Trail which turns into a San Diego Creek Trail to all the way to the Back Bay Loop Trail. I recently got an electric bike and have been enjoying this great trail without huffing and puffing and just enjoying the beautiful scenery. The trail is well-signed so just follow the signs.
One of the highlights of biking the Back Bay Loop is the wildlife. The area is a natural haven for birds, and it’s not unusual to spot egrets, herons, and even the occasional osprey.
The marshy areas and the shimmering waters of the bay create a picturesque backdrop, perfect for those Instagram or TikTok worthy shots! The trail is open year round and dogs are welcomed but need to be on a leash.
As the trail curves along the bay, there are several spots to stop and relax. I usually take the trail all the way to Newport Dunes. The trail continues on the side of the RV park in Newport Dunes. You can do a bigger loop if you continue there and bike on the sidewalk or on the bike path on the road through the neighborhoods. You can end up in Bayview Trail which will connect you back to the Back Bay Loop.
Facilities along the Back Bay Loop trail include restrooms, porta-potties, and water fountains. You can find restrooms at Peter and Mary Muth Interpretive Center and Newport Dunes Resort and Marina. You can park at both places and enjoy picnic tables by these parking lots. However, you can also find free street parking all along the trail.
For those interested in extending their adventure, the trail connects with other paths which are for hikers only.
Check out my video here where I bike the Back Bay Loop Trail:
Other Activities I Enjoy on the Back Bay
I love paddleboarding at Newport Dunes. It’s so peaceful because boats aren’t allowed past the bridge, which means there’s no wake to knock me off my balance. It’s also a great spot to let the kids splash around safely in the water. However, I often take my paddleboard all the way to the back bay, soaking up the serene scenery as I glide along. Besides paddleboarding, I love hiking the little trails that branch off from the main paved trail. These paths let me get right up close to the water, offering a more intimate connection with the bay.
Other things to do on the Back Bay:
Sightseeing and Nature Watching
- Birdwatching: The Upper Newport Bay is a haven for bird enthusiasts. You can spot numerous species especially during the winter months. Bring your binoculars or a camera with a bigger zoom for a closer look at these birds.
- Photography Opportunities: The trail offers stunning views of the bay, cliffs, and wetlands. You can capture the reflections on the water, the wildlife, or the sun setting over the hills.
- Flora and Fauna: Aside from birds, the area is rich in other wildlife and diverse plant species. Keep an eye out for rabbits, squirrels, and the occasional coyote, as well as coastal vegetation that thrives in this environment.
Recreational Activities
- Picnicking: There are several picnic areas along the trail where you can stop, rest, and enjoy a meal with a view.
- Hiking and Walking: If you want to take a break from biking, there are numerous access points to shorter walking trails that lead to different parts of the bay. These trails offer a more intimate experience of the local environment.
- Kayaking and Paddleboarding: At Newport Dunes Waterfront Resort, you can access the water for kayaking or paddleboarding. This gives you a unique perspective of the bay and its surroundings from the water.
Educational and Cultural Insights
- Interpretive Centers: Visit the Peter and Mary Muth Interpretive Center located near the trail. It offers educational exhibits about the ecology of the bay, conservation efforts, and the history of the area.
- Community Events: The trail is often a venue for community events like clean-up days, nature walks, and educational tours, which can enrich your understanding of the area and its significance.
Leisure and Relaxation
- Scenic Rest Stops: There are benches and lookout points along the trail where you can stop, rest, and enjoy the serene views of the bay.
- Connect with Nature: The Back Bay Loop provides a peaceful escape where you can reconnect with nature, meditate, or practice mindfulness.