Hiking Trail Guide: Upper Newport Bay, Upper Newport Bay

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Upper Newport Bay, Upper Newport Bay

Distance
3 miles

Elevation
50 feet gain

Difficulty
2/10

City
Newport Beach ,CA (92660) 32.08 miles from you Weather Map

Trailhead
From Interstates 5 or 405: Take the 55 Freeway south to the 73 Freeway south. Proceed to the first exit before the toll road begins, which is Irvine Avenue. Turn right on Irvine Avenue. Turn left on University Avenue. The parking area entrance is about 200 feet to the right. The interpretative center is designed to blend in with the landscape. Look for the signs to the center and begin your visit by viewing the video presentation (5 stars!) and the exhibits. The trail begins outside the interpretative center, leading off to the left.

The area is heavily criss-crossed by old motorcycle grooves. Stay on the trail and out of the mudflats. Dogs must be leashed.

Description

Just about the only vivid shades of green that you will find during California's summer are to be found in the few remaining natural estuaries. The Irvine Coast Trail (ultimately linking UC Irvine by way of San Diego Creek) follows the north bank of upper Newport Bay providing intimate glimpses of a salt marsh ecosystem.

Pickleweed and eel grass fill the low flats. Willows, sycamores, and invasive Brazillian Pepper (do not touch!) cover the ground between the dry coastal sage habitat (distinguished by its grasses, buckwheat, and, in some places, cholla cactus) and the salt marsh.

Bring binoculars or spotting scopes for a good look at the rare California least tern, skimmers, Great Blue Herons, white pelicans, snowy egrets, and savannah sparrows. Fall brings the best variety of migratory wading birds and ducks. The scenery may not be the best, but the riot of nature that goes on year round makes up for it.

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