The Big Canyon Loop path makes use of the short Big Canyon trail (.7 miles) and gravel tracks through the lower portion of a creek forming a canyon in the middle of a residential area adjacent to Newport Beach's Back Bay area.
The path is easy, and passes by several interpretive signs, as well as over a small bridge. The local university uses the area for research, and there are habitat restoration efforts going to to help bring the area back to a thriving ecosystem.
Beginning at the parking area, a couple benches, viewpoints and bridges overlook the Upper Newport Bay Marine Conservation Area. This is a good spot to keep your eyes out for the bird populations that reside in the bay, or possibly see a sea lion swimming up the channel. A couple interpretive signs offer some shade.
Reaching the Big Canyon trailhead requires a short walk north on the paved road. This is the Mountains To Sea Trail, and also a portion of the Newport Back Bay Loop Trail. Soon a small footbridge with signage is visible on the inland side of the road - this is the Big Canyon Trail, which winds through dense growth at the base of some cliffs. The trail is a well graded path, and feels like a wooded escape in the heart of the city. This path comes to an end at the wider gravel track which can be followed in an upstream direction. Unfortunately the clifftop homes are visible here, however the trail follows and greenscape of lower watershed area that is in the long process of being restored to a more ecological state.
The gravel track wraps up to a road, where a quick turn along the sidewalk reenters the area and follows the path back down toward the bay.
While not the most beautiful, the Big Canyon Loop is a nice opportunity to remember that there is a bit of wildness not yet developed into manicured landscape and luxury homes in this area of the beach city.
Dogs and bicycles are not permitted on the trail.
There are outhouses located at the parking area, but no other amenities.
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