Upper Newport Bay Trail – Coastal view loop from Newport Harbor High School

Upper Newport Bay Trail – Coastal view loop from Newport Harbor High School

Moderate

4.6

(7835)

14,685

riders

Upper Newport Bay Trail – Coastal view loop from Newport Harbor High School

03:14

73.5km

490m

Road cycling

Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride. The starting point of the route is accessible with public transport.

Last updated: September 10, 2026

Tips

Includes a segment in which cycling is not permitted

After 26.5 km for 380 m

Waypoints

Start point

Bus stop

Get Directions

2.52 km

San Diego Creek views

Highlight • Cycleway

Cycling along San Diego Creek from Irvine Avenue offers a mellow ride with views of the creek. Riders might spot common waterfowl like ducks and herons, and perhaps catch a glimpse of turtles sunning by the water's edge. The route provides a relaxed experience with exciting wildlife encounters.

Tip by

2.60 km

Back Bay Loop Trail

Highlight (Segment) • Trail

Paved trail, about 3.5km (or 2.2mi) in length, on the north side of the Upper Newport Bay Nature Preserve. It starts/ends on Irvine Ave and Jamboree, takes you away from the busy roads and offers great views.

Tip by

8.87 km

Upper Newport Bay Trail

Highlight (Segment) • Cycleway

The trail here is paved and designed specifically for foot traffic and bikes with two separate cycling lanes. You get great views across Newport Bay to the ecological reserve as you pass by a couple small parks and vista points.

Tip by

11.7 km

Upper Newport Bay Ecological Reserve views

Highlight • Viewpoint

Cycling along Black Bay Drive, overlooking Upper Newport Bay Ecological Reserve, unveils stunning vistas of the estuary. Riders may spot diverse bird species like egrets and herons, while enjoying panoramic views of wetlands and coastal landscapes. The reserve's rich biodiversity enhances the cycling experience with nature's beauty.

Tip by

14.7 km

Back Bay Drive – Upper Newport Bay Ecological Reserve

Highlight (Segment) • Trail

Road with little traffic running by (through) the Upper Newport Ecological Reserve. Very nice to ride.

Tip by

19.1 km

San Joaquin Marsh Wildlife Sanctuary

Highlight • Natural

San Joaquin Marsh Wildlife Sanctuary, located in Irvine, encompasses 300 acres of restored coastal freshwater wetlands. A haven for birdwatchers, it hosts diverse bird species and offers educational programs.

Tip by

25.3 km

San Diego Creek

Lake

53.3 km

Coastal view

Highlight • Viewpoint

Best going south, with the Pacific on your near side, you can enjoy great views as you go along.

Tip by

55.4 km

Crystal Cove State Park

Highlight • Beach

Crystal Cove State Park, captivates visitors with its pristine beaches, tide pools, and rugged coastal bluffs. A haven for outdoor enthusiasts, it offers hiking trails, historical cottages, and stunning ocean views, making it a cherished natural escape for anyone.

Tip by

73.5 km

End point

Bus stop

Way Types & Surfaces

Way Types