Upper Newport Back Bay

The first hill Kyong-Mi and Chris saw.
Chris' most "strenuous" hike.
It wasn't bad at all, but it was a mini-incline.

Many former coworkers and friends have told Kyong-Mi to hike at the Newport Back Bay.  It always sounded so wonderful.  The trailhead was easy to find at 2301 University Drive in Newport Beach.  Parking was on the street and the weather was sunshiny with a side of smog.

Mike did not go with Kyong-Mi on this particular hike. Beer and movies for Mike.

Since Kyong-Mi's youngest son Chris is out of school for summer break and just finished elementary school, she thought it would be a good idea to get him walking before starting middle school in September.

Despite the distractions of the planes leaving John Wayne Airport, massive piles of horse droppings, and the occasional cyclist flying by at full speed, there were plenty of animals and plants to look at. 

Kyong-Mi and Chris saw loons, horses, and turkey vultures.  It was definitely an easy hike, although Christopher and Kyong-Mi only went 1 mile in and 1 mile back, following the markers on the side of the trail.

Christopher did a great job at keeping up and being a good sport.

Desert apple cactus flower.