Newport Bay Nature Walk/Hike + Lunch at The Plot in Costa Mesa before it closes

Greetings Nature Enthusiasts!

Enjoy a beautiful Sunday with 2 options (1 and/or 2):
Option 1: Upper Newport Bay Ecological Reserve trail walk at 11am-12:30pm-ish

We will take a gently sloping path near the Peter and Mary Muth Interpretative Center towards an oasis with an optional small hill climb, if some hikers are keen. All fitness levels and ages accommodated with the group walk/hike with dogs permitted. This path takes 1 hour - 1.5 hours, depending on the size and walking pace of the group members. If you would like to take breaks inside the Muth Interpretative Center to see the exhibits or dip out early, we are quite flexible!
LOCATION with Google Maps link:
2301 University Dr, Newport Beach, CA 92660
The parking lot is free, curbside parking can be found on University Drive near the YMCA if it is full, or around in the neighboring streets. Bathrooms are located inside the interpretative center.
TIME: We'll meet at 11am in front of the wooden trail map next to the parking lot by the large rocks and main trailhead. We will wait until 11:15am and do introductions as a friendly group!
It's a bluff trail with very little shade, so it's handy to come ready with:
1. Plenty of water 💦
2. Layers of clothing and sturdy, closed-toed shoes/hiking boots
3. A sun hat 👒
**An approximate trail map of where we will go, though we may diverge slightly depending on group needs: https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/california/upper-newport-bay-ecological-reserve-loop
***FYI, this area is next to John Wayne airport, so airplanes will be taking off regularly nearby and you will hear them—just so you or any companion animals are aware of the noise in case you may be bothered by takeoffs when the volume can interrupt conversation.

Option 2: Lunch at The Plot at The Camp in Costa Mesa from approximately 1pm to 3pm-ish to support this vegan farm-to-table restaurant before it closes on September 28th.

food for a healthy future
from cozy classics to exciting flavors, the plot is shaking up plant-based dining with a bold mix of comfort and style. chefs davin waite and travis roe are reimagining vegan cuisine and zero waste menu design to celebrate flavor, texture, sustainability, and the magic that comes from sourcing locally and growing our own food.
The Plot Costa Mesa website with menu
2937 Bristol St #100, Costa Mesa, CA 92626
Phone: 714.852.3181
Happy trails and look forward to seeing you there!
-Jade, host

DISCLAIMER: Group organizers and assistant organizers assume no liability; come at your own risk. By being a member of this group you hereby agree to assume all risks and liability related to or resulting from any group functions. You agree that neither you nor any third party will hold any of the group's leaders, officers, or representatives liable for any injury, loss, or damage to your own person or any members of your family, friends, acquaintances, children, pets, or property, arising directly or as a consequence from a group activity. You also agree that your membership of this group is based on an "at will" basis.