Newport Back Bay - Castaways Park Trail 9/4/13

I just discovered this amazing walking/biking trail that goes all around Newport's Back Bay. The 'Back Bay Loop' is over 10 miles. The trail starts and stops in a few spots where you have to walk/ride along Irvine Ave., but most of it runs close to the water. I have always parked behind Newport Dunes, off of Jamboree Rd., and ridden along the water's edge, towards Irvine. This new section I discovered is off of Dover Dr., turn right at the church and follow the signs to Castaways Park (free parking). Stop at the War Memorial and pay tribute to our fallen soldiers. Then follow the paved trail past the row of homes with glass fences. When you get to the end of this section of the trail, ride through the residential neighborhood to Santiago Dr. to avoid having to ride in traffic along Irvine Ave. Santiago Dr. connects back up with Irvine Ave. and then the off-street trail begins again. No bathrooms along most of the loop and bring plenty of water. I can't wait to shoot this view the next time Saddleback is covered in snow!