Marcie, I too like the option of continuous/loop running and point to point. I have a hidden reverse curve under a mountain and then, by virtue of the mountain, another reverse curve that is not too obvious. I have sidings arranged in such a way that I can do point to point as well as heavy yard work. It does take considerable space though to have both capabilities. I like your plan. Creative scenery will be very affective in diminishing the loops. As to access, you could have another hidden cut out on the left side in between the sidings and the loop. Good Luck,
Dennis