Buck Gully Trail Guide
In This Guide |
|
Total Distance | 5.2 miles (8.4 km) |
Other Options | 4 miles to end of singletrack |
Hike Time | 2 Hours (Total) |
Difficulty (?) | Easy |
Total Ascent (?) | 460 feet (140m) |
Highest Elevation | 600 feet (183m) |
Fees & Permits | Free |
Dogs Allowed | No |
Alerts & Closures (?) | Buck Gully Reserve |
Park Phone | 949-644-3151 |
The Buck Gully Trail is a peaceful and fun hike through a coastal watershed located in Newport Beach’s foothills. What makes the hike remarkable is that the 1,200 acres of Buck Gully Reserve are tucked in between all the development around Newport Beach. So even though this hike is close to civilization, you feel like you are a world away as you hike your way up the canyon. It’s an easy hike, great for all levels and families. And while the trail itself doesn’t offer ocean views, I’ll show you an optional loop that offers vistas to Palos Verdes and Long Beach.
Where to Park for the Buck Gully Trail
While there are two ends of the Buck Gully Trail, the traditional starting point is in Corona del Mar, which is the only trailhead that offers parking. Use this trailhead address:
872 Poppy Ave, Corona Del Mar, CA 92625


There are no bathrooms at the trailhead or on the trail, but the City of Newport Beach says that you can use the restrooms at the nearby Oasis Senior Center.
Gear for the Hike
You don’t need any special gear to do this hike. Light hiking gear or fitness clothes work great. After rain, the trail can get muddy, so ideally you’ll wear hiking footwear.
Buck Gully Trail Maps
The trail is easy to follow and well-marked with trail signs at the junctions. You’ll share the trail with mountain bikes, but they are only allowed to go one way, uphill, so they’re never flying by. In the spring the area comes alive with wildflowers.
Explore Map on CalTopoView a Printable PDF Hike MapDownload the Hike GPX File

3D Map

Buck Gully Trail Hike Directions
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Video Directions
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Turn By Turn Directions

















If you just want to do 4 miles and avoid the fire road portion, you can turn around here.




From here you have a few options.
- If you want a snack or bathroom break, make the right and walk on the sidewalk about 5 minutes to the shopping center which has a Starbucks, supermarket, and other food options.
- If you want some ocean views, make the left and walk down the sidewalk. After about 1 mile, you’ll see a turnoff and trailhead for the Bobcat Trail. Take the Bobcat Trail downhill and it will dead end into the Buck Gully Trail after crossing a bridge.

This guide last updated on March 26, 2021. Did something change on this hike? If so, please contact me and let me know. I'll update the guide.
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