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ACTIVE
Big Canyon Trail along Upper Newport Bay

HIT THE TRAIL

FOR A QUICK REPRIEVE FROM THE CITY ’ S HUSTLE AND BUSTLE , THESE LOCAL PATHS IMMERSE HIKERS IN NATURE , WITH SEVERAL OFFERING SCENIC VIEWS .
BY JACK MIESSNER

As fall approaches and temperatures start to cool a bit , it ’ s the perfect time to get outside and immerse in nature . In Southern California , idyllic spots for outdoor activities are never more than a stone ’ s throw away — and Newport Beach is no different . Here are five of the area ’ s best hiking and walking trails to get some exercise while soaking in the sights , whether they are rolling hills , trees along a stream or ocean views .

BUCK GULLY TRAIL Though Buck Gully Reserve is bookended by urban life , the area is a hot locale for Newport Beach residents to walk , run or hike through 300 acres of lush wilderness , which features a stream that runs year-round . In fact , the wildlife conservation area underwent a total makeover in 2020 that improved the impact of its trails on local flora and fauna . The Buck Gully Trail is a 2.6-mile point-to-point path
that snakes from one end of the coastal canyon to the other . The trail has many flat portions , but if hiking round-trip ( 5.2 miles ), from Poppy Avenue to San Joaquin Hills Road by the Newport Coast Community Center , there ’ s about 450 feet of elevation change . Proximity to the coast and several shady spots along the way keep it fairly cool , but it can still get hot on warmer days . The city also partners with Irvine Ranch Conservancy to offer
COURTESY OF NEWPORT BAY CONSERVANCY
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