Crystal Peak Park Loop is a 6.8 mile heavily trafficked loop trail located near Newport Beach, California that features beautiful wild flowers and is rated as difficult. The trail is primarily used for hiking, running, horses, and mountain biking. Horses are also able to use this trail.
Not for the faint of heart. Hard trail if you have not prepped for a long hike that has a lot of hills and inclines
Very hilly but a great workout. Makes you feel accomplished when you get back to the top. Lots of people and bikes on this trail.
Easy street parking. Route equally easy to follow. A mixture of great views along the trail.
We parked at Coastal Peak Park and hiked the trail counterclockwise. This provides you with really good ocean views on the way out. I agree with the others, with the exception of a few pretty steep sections (Poles going down, Morro Canyon going up) it's a moderate trail. All very wide open, exposed hiking except for a short section on Morro Canyon.
We went down the right side about 2.5 miles and turned around to go back up, since we wanted to get in about 5 miles. It’s mostly downhill the first half of the hike (they way we did it, and assuming if you do the whole loop). We were only at an elevation gain of about 150 when we turned around and then ended at around 750 ft (so it’s definitely an easy in, hard out kind of hike). There isn’t any shade... I would say it’s not a difficult hike, more like moderate.
Go early in the morning to avoid the heat. Not to hard, I would say moderate hike. But it’s worth it. Would come back again.
Just completed this today ! 9/28/2020 took me 3 hours (did 2 small breaks that lasted less than 5 mins each) . I would say it’s pretty easy up until the halfway point when u get on poles trail (it’s an uphill battle) especially with that 85 degree sun beaming on you. Then it levels out and then when exiting you’re on the “no name trail” and there’s a few inclines there too. Bring a hat and plenty of water. I bought a Gatorade and a 40oz water bottle. And still had half of my water left at the end of the hike. I was also sweating profusely on my face and about 3 small mosquitos kept going near my face every time I stopped. I saw a few bunnies, 3 Bambi’s (ran away so fast I couldn’t even take a picture) , and a cool tree that looked like the a okay hand sign! Went alone and felt very safe in this rich neighborhood . Wide trails ! Would considerate moderate not hard
Went to this trail for the first time today. Nice long hike from the park trail head will lead you all the way down to the Crystal Cove beach tunnel entrance if you wish (about 9 miles round trip) The hike itself is full of hills, so be prepared for many inclines and declines. Not a lot of shade either, but there is a part where it gets foresty for a little bit which is nice. Best part of this trail, is there is no parking fee, you can park your car on the street or in the park’s lot. Will definitely be coming back.