Activities and Programs

The activities below are offered by a variety of organizations and their dedicated volunteers. All programs are FREE unless noted below. Programs led by IRC-Certified Volunteers require pre-registration, which closes at 4 p.m. on the day prior to the event.  No walk-up registrations will be permitted for these events. For policies of other organizations, please use the sign-up information provided. For mobility device policies click here.

Irvine Ranch Conservancy is committed to providing a safe and respectful environment for all participants, volunteers, and employees. Certain offensive behaviors, including problematic language or attacks based on race, color, religion, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, disability, or veteran status will not be tolerated. Participating in certain offensive behaviors may lead to dismissal from activities.

 

    Note: Minors must be accompanied by a parent or guardian for these events. For programs requiring online registration, each adult and child must be registered.

Need help? For the fastest answers, look for organization-specific contact information in each event listing (click More Information for full listing). If no contact information is listed, email info@irconservancy.org for assistance.

Click here to learn more about IRC-Certified Volunteers.    •   Click here to learn more about the Difficulty Ratings.

Search & Filter Activities

Found 436 Events

Sunday, April 7, 2024

Weekly Nature Area Clean Up

Trail Work
Weekly Nature Area Clean Up

Join Mile Square Regional Park staff and volunteers in enhancing the Nature Area habitat for local wildlife. Activities may include non-native plant removal, planting natives, watering, trash cleanup, and Butterfly Garden maintenance.

No experience is necessary; please bring a hat, sunscreen, snacks, water, wear closed toe shoes and a long sleeve shirt is recommended. Tools are provided. Please arrive on time, as work will begin promptly at 8 am.

Please note, this is a weekly reoccurring activity and space is limited. Please park in the Overflow/gravel lot and meet at the volunteer shed just a few yards west of the Overflow/gravel lot entrance.

• Space is limited and pre-registration is required.
• Minors ages 16 and younger must have a legal guardian present at all times.
• Rain or heat advisories cancel the event

Weekly Nature Area Clean Up
Date:
Sun, 04/07/2024
Time:
9:00 AM - 11:00 AM
Where:
Mile Square Regional Park
Difficulty Rating:
1
Minimum Age:
12
Spaces Left:
22 of 25
More Information  

Monday, April 8, 2024

Group Limestone Butterfly Islands Stewardship

Stewardship
Group Limestone Butterfly Islands Stewardship

Spend your morning helping IRC and REI plant native shrubs within the new Butterfly Islands in Limestone. With your help we will be able to create “islands” of host and nectar plants for butterflies in decline in Limestone Canyon.

Group Limestone Butterfly Islands Stewardship
Date:
Mon, 04/08/2024
Time:
9:30 AM - 12:30 PM
Where:
Limestone Canyon Nature Preserve
Difficulty Rating:
2
Distance:
2 miles
Minimum Age:
18
More Information  

Wildflowers Hike in Santiago Oaks Regional Park

Interpretive
Wildflowers Hike in Santiago Oaks Regional Park

Hiking in spring and early summer is a treasure hunt of color as wildflowers are abloom in the Santiago Oaks Regional Park. Get away from everyday life as you breathe in the crisp morning air and enjoy the invigorating rolling hills of Santiago Oaks Regional Park. Your heart healthy adventure will inspire awe as you witness the beautiful wildflowers and the stunning Santiago Oaks vistas. We will make periodic stops to identify some of our local wildflowers and plants. The trail is uneven in places so wear sturdy shoes.

Wildflowers Hike in Santiago Oaks Regional Park
Date:
Mon, 04/08/2024
Time:
10:00 AM - 11:30 AM
Where:
Santiago Oaks Regional Park
Difficulty Rating:
2
Distance:
1 miles
Minimum Age:
14
Spaces Left:
10 of 15
More Information  

Bright Birds of Spring in Agua Chinon – Bird Walk

Interpretive
Bright Birds of Spring in Agua Chinon - Bird Walk

It’s easy to think many of the birds we see and hear look and act the same. But do they? Bring your binoculars and join us on a slow/medium paced walk in OC Parks’ Irvine Ranch Open Space, as we search for resident and visiting birds of the local coastal sage scrub, oak woodland, riparian, and grassland habitats. We will discuss the diverse features of the birds we observe and how they match the season, their habitat and lifestyle. We will travel mostly on ranch roads, usually without shade. Beginners to advanced bird enthusiasts are welcome. Please wear sturdy shoes suitable for hiking and bring water, along with sun protection such as a hat and sunscreen. Bring a small birding field guide if you have one. A few binoculars will be available to borrow.

Bright Birds of Spring in Agua Chinon - Bird Walk
Date:
Mon, 04/08/2024
Time:
2:30 PM - 5:30 PM
Where:
Limestone Canyon Nature Preserve
Difficulty Rating:
2
Distance:
3 miles
Minimum Age:
16
Spaces Left:
17 of 20
More Information  

After Work Fitness Hike on Paved Hicks Haul Road

Hiking & Fitness
After Work Fitness Hike on Paved Hicks Haul Road

Join us every Monday night for a fitness-focused hike on the paved Hicks Haul Road in the Irvine Open Space Preserve. During the spring, summer and fall, hikers will enjoy wonderful sunset views and a panoramic overview of Orange County. This hike travels about 3.5 miles, up to the top of Loma Ridge and back down. The hike is conducted at about 3-3.5 miles per hour, but you may travel a bit faster or slower, at a walk, run, or jog depending on your comfort level. Most participants finish the route in about 1 hour. Because of the paved surface of the road, you may wear regular running or walking shoes. Trail shoes are fine, but not required. Please bring adequate water!

After Work Fitness Hike on Paved Hicks Haul Road
Date:
Mon, 04/08/2024
Time:
6:00 PM - 7:30 PM
Where:
Irvine Open Space Preserve
Difficulty Rating:
3
Distance:
3.5 miles
Minimum Age:
16
Spaces Left:
19 of 25
More Information  

Tuesday, April 9, 2024

Tuesday Morning Fitness Hike on Paved Hicks Haul Road

Hiking & Fitness
Tuesday Morning Fitness Hike on Paved Hicks Haul Road

Ready for a workout? Forget the gym for the day and head outside! Join us for an exhilarating morning fitness hike on the paved Hicks Haul Road in OCParks’ Irvine Ranch Open Space. This hike allows you to choose between a 3, 6, or 8 mile route, all of which are conducted at the speed of about 3.0 to 3.5 miles per hour. The footing on the asphalt paved road is smoother than dirt roads and single track trails normally found in Limestone Canyon Nature Preserve, but is beginning to show its age with cracks, crevices and an occasional dip. Otherwise, the terrain is smooth, so this is a great walk for anyone who wants a “wilderness experience” without getting dirty! The 6 and 8 mile routes experience two fairly steep ascents and descents. The 3 mile route takes you to the top of Loma Ridge and back down. Along the way, you will have sweeping views of much of Orange County and the Santa Ana Mountains. Various animals, like hawks, deer, and lizards are also frequently seen in this area.

Tuesday Morning Fitness Hike on Paved Hicks Haul Road
Date:
Tue, 04/09/2024
Time:
7:30 AM - 10:30 AM
Where:
Limestone Canyon Nature Preserve
Difficulty Rating:
3
Distance:
8 miles
Minimum Age:
16
Spaces Left:
22 of 25
More Information  

Bommer Canyon to Butterfly Valley Hike

Hiking & Fitness
Bommer Canyon to Butterfly Valley Hike

Join us as we explore the Irvine Open Space Preserve on this hike through Bommer and Shady Canyons. We’ll begin at the Cattle Camp, where ranch equipment of old still stands. After a steep ascent on the East Fork trail, we’ll make our way across part of Serrano Ridge and descend into Shady Canyon to the Butterfly Valley trail. Here, you’ll experience some of the most mature Coastal Sage Scrub in all of Orange County. After a short stop we’ll return the same way. Total round trip distance is 9 miles with an elevation gain of 1500 feet at an average moving rate of 2.5 miles per hour. All participants must carry their own water! Please come prepared with a pack, plenty of water, snacks, sturdy closed-toe hiking shoes or boots, sunscreen, first aid, and all other supplies to keep you safe and healthy on the trail. Under-prepared participants may be denied access to the event!

Bommer Canyon to Butterfly Valley Hike
Date:
Tue, 04/09/2024
Time:
8:00 AM - 12:30 PM
Where:
Bommer Canyon Preserve
Difficulty Rating:
4
Distance:
9 miles
Minimum Age:
18
Spaces Left:
17 of 20
More Information  

Open Space Invaders: Invasive Plant Removal at Silverado Creek

Stewardship
Open Space Invaders: Invasive Plant Removal at Silverado Creek

Non-native and invasive plant species are invading our native habitat and open spaces. They aggressively compete with our native plants for resources and spreads rapidly once established. Monitoring, management, and removal of these plant species is an important aspect of land management and habitat restoration.

Help us to manage populations of invasive plants and remove them from the habitat. No previous experience is necessary, just a desire to work outside and get dirty! Snake chaps, gloves, and tools will be provided but please feel free to bring your own if you have them. Please wear long pants, long sleeved shirts, close toed shoes, and protective sun protection. Note: This is a wilderness area, there are natural hazards. Snakes, including rattlesnakes, are occasionally seen here.

Open Space Invaders: Invasive Plant Removal at Silverado Creek
Date:
Tue, 04/09/2024
Time:
8:00 AM - 11:30 AM
Where:
Black Star Canyon Wilderness Park
Difficulty Rating:
4
Distance:
0 miles
Minimum Age:
18
Spaces Left:
4 of 4
More Information  

Tecate Cypress and Coast Live Oaks Stewardship Day

Stewardship
Tecate Cypress and Coast Live Oaks Stewardship Day

Spend the morning watering and nurturing Tecate Cypress trees and Coast Live Oak seedlings at the Fremont Staging area. Please be aware that you may be instructed to use tools for this activity such as but not limited to, pliers, mallets, trowels and shovels.

Tecate Cypress and Coast Live Oaks Stewardship Day
Date:
Tue, 04/09/2024
Time:
9:30 AM - 11:30 AM
Where:
Fremont Canyon Nature Preserve
Difficulty Rating:
2
Distance:
2 miles
Minimum Age:
14
Spaces Left:
4 of 4
More Information  

Takedown Tuesdays: Weeding at the Native Seed Farm

Stewardship
Takedown Tuesdays: Weeding at the Native Seed Farm

Looking for a way to give back to nature this Spring? Come help us behind the scenes at the Irvine Ranch Conservancy’s one-of-a-kind Native Seed Farm! In this evening activity, attendees will learn about one to two (1-2) target species before assisting staff in weeding efforts around our native plant crops. Working with us at the Native Seed Farm is a great way to grow your community and cultivate knowledge about local plant and wildlife! Absolutely no experience or special equipment required!

Reviewing the 1-5 Difficulty Ratings will help you evaluate your readiness to participate in this Level 3 activity. Activities may include bending, stooping, crouching, squatting, long periods of standing, reaching, pulling, grabbing, and pushing.

Takedown Tuesdays: Weeding at the Native Seed Farm
Date:
Tue, 04/09/2024
Time:
5:00 PM - 6:30 PM
Where:
Native Seed Farm OCP
Difficulty Rating:
3
Minimum Age:
14
Spaces Left:
15 of 15
More Information  

Evening Hike on Hicks Haul Road

Hiking & Fitness
Evening Hike on Hicks Haul Road

Enjoy an evening hike through stunning rock formations and fragrant native plants as you listen to the sounds of nature. This hike in the Irvine Open Space Preserve is done at an easy walking pace. This out-and-back program travels 3.5 miles round trip to scenic Loma Ridge and back down. Please bring a red-tinted flashlight as the return portion of the hike may be after sunset.

Evening Hike on Hicks Haul Road
Date:
Tue, 04/09/2024
Time:
6:00 PM - 7:30 PM
Where:
Irvine Open Space Preserve
Difficulty Rating:
2
Distance:
3.5 miles
Minimum Age:
12
Spaces Left:
19 of 25
More Information  

Wednesday, April 10, 2024

Plants Among Us: Learning About Plants at Buck Gully

Interpretive
Plants Among Us: Learning About Plants at Buck Gully

Curious to learn about the plants among us, who’s sus and who’s not? Join us for a hike at Newport Beach’s Buck Gully Reserve where we’ll look at local flora, talk about native and non-native species, and learn how different plants impact our ecosystems. Learning to identify plants, both native and non-native, is a great way to cultivate knowledge about local flora and fauna!

This activity is geared towards participants who are curious about our local plants and ecosystem. Please bring water and all items needed to keep you safe during our walk. Hats and sunscreen are highly recommended as there is no shade along this route.

Plants Among Us: Learning About Plants at Buck Gully
Date:
Wed, 04/10/2024
Time:
9:00 AM - 11:00 AM
Where:
Buck Gully Reserve
Difficulty Rating:
2
Distance:
6 miles
Minimum Age:
6
Family Friendly:
Yes
Spaces Left:
11 of 15
More Information  

Critter Investigation: Clever Cottontails

Interpretive
Critter Investigation: Clever Cottontails

OC Parks invites you to come and learn more about one of our most common mammals: the clever cottontail rabbit. Join us for a fun program to learn more about these amazing creatures and how their populations thrive in our parks!

This program includes a story time, an age-appropriate hike, and a themed craft.

Activities will begin at the Peter and Mary Muth Interpretive Center. Program content is tailored for the preschool and kindergarten level (ages 2-6), but all are welcome to attend. Please wear comfortable attire and closed-toe shoes.

The program and parking are free. Advance registration is required.

Adverse weather may cancel the program or move it indoors.

Critter Investigation: Clever Cottontails
Date:
Wed, 04/10/2024
Time:
10:00 AM - 11:00 AM
Where:
Upper Newport Bay
Difficulty Rating:
1
Minimum Age:
All Ages
Family Friendly:
Yes
Spaces Left:
Full
More Information  

Adaption Spotlight: Our 5 Senses

Hiking & Fitness
Adaption Spotlight: Our 5 Senses

For kids 7 and up. Join OC Park Naturalists in exploring how you use your 5 senses to interpret the world around you. We will put your senses to the test, hypothesize reasons for why plants smell so nice and why deer have such large ears, all while enjoying a small hike along Mary’s Trail. We will meet at the amphitheater outside of the Nix Nature Center: Laguna Coast Wilderness Park, 18751 Laguna Canyon Road, Laguna Beach 92651. Online reservations are required. Please bring water and wear hat and closed-toed shoes. Parking is $3.

Registration at lagunacanyon.org/events is require. Please register here.

Adaption Spotlight: Our 5 Senses
Date:
Wed, 04/10/2024
Time:
3:00 PM - 4:30 PM
Where:
Laguna Coast Wilderness Park
Difficulty Rating:
1
Minimum Age:
7
More Information  

After Work Cardio Hike in Baker Canyon

Hiking & Fitness
After Work Cardio Hike in Baker Canyon

Leave the weekday chaos behind and dive into the peaceful beauty of Irvine Natural Landmarks with our energizing after-work cardio hike. Forget about the day’s worries as we trek through stunning landscapes, breathing in the fresh air and taking in the scenic views. Come along for a journey through winding paths and picturesque vistas, where we can recharge and refresh ourselves in the tranquility of nature.

After Work Cardio Hike in Baker Canyon
Date:
Wed, 04/10/2024
Time:
5:30 PM - 7:30 PM
Where:
Black Star Canyon Wilderness Park
Difficulty Rating:
4
Distance:
6 miles
Minimum Age:
18
Spaces Left:
22 of 25
More Information  

After Work Fitness Hike on Paved Hicks Haul Road

Hiking & Fitness
After Work Fitness Hike on Paved Hicks Haul Road

Join us every Wednesday night in OC Parks’ Irvine Ranch Open Space for a fitness-focused hike on the paved Hicks Haul Road. During the spring, summer and fall, hikers will enjoy wonderful sunset views and a panoramic overview of Orange County. This hike travels about 3.5 miles, up to the top of Loma Ridge and back down. The hike is conducted at an average of 3-3.5 miles per hour, but you may travel a bit faster or slower, at a walk, run, or jog depending on your comfort level. Most participants finish the route in about 1 hour. Because of the paved surface of the road, you may wear regular running or walking shoes. Trail shoes are fine, but not required. Please bring adequate water!

After Work Fitness Hike on Paved Hicks Haul Road
Date:
Wed, 04/10/2024
Time:
6:00 PM - 7:30 PM
Where:
Limestone Canyon Nature Preserve
Difficulty Rating:
3
Distance:
3.5 miles
Minimum Age:
16
Spaces Left:
19 of 25
More Information  

Thursday, April 11, 2024

Butterfly Series: Limestone Canyon Butterfly Habitat Islands

Stewardship
Butterfly Series: Limestone Canyon Butterfly Habitat Islands

Spend your morning helping to water and weed within the new butterfly habitat islands in Limestone. With your help we will be able to maintain “islands” of host and nectar plants for butterflies in decline in Limestone Canyon. You will be transported from via a safari style truck from butterfly island to butterfly island through a beautiful oak woodland.

Butterfly Series: Limestone Canyon Butterfly Habitat Islands
Date:
Thu, 04/11/2024
Time:
9:30 AM - 12:30 PM
Where:
Limestone Canyon Nature Preserve
Difficulty Rating:
2
Distance:
2 miles
Minimum Age:
18
Spaces Left:
10 of 10
More Information  

Agua Chinon Equestrian Ride

Equestrian
Agua Chinon Equestrian Ride

Join us on an equestrian ride up Agua Chinon Canyon in OC Parks’ Irvine Ranch Open Space. We will make our way to see the wonders of the Sinks, Orange County’s mini Grand Canyon. Most of the ride is flat with one good climb and descent as we head towards the sinks.

Equestrians must have their own horse, trail riding experience, and the ability to transport their horse to the staging area. Horses must be fit, able to comfortably ride the distance as described, and be well-behaved in a group. This walking equestrian ride travels on single-track and wide fire roads. It may include a moderate, steady climb. Owners of unshod horses, please note that the footing may include areas of gravel and pavement.

Agua Chinon Equestrian Ride
Date:
Thu, 04/11/2024
Time:
10:00 AM - 1:30 PM
Where:
Limestone Canyon Nature Preserve
Difficulty Rating:
3
Distance:
6 miles
Minimum Age:
18
Spaces Left:
6 of 8
More Information  

OC Parks Volunteer Information Night

Special Events
OC Parks Volunteer Information Night

Please join OC Parks staff and volunteers for our annual OC Parks Volunteer Information Night! This is the perfect opportunity to learn about the various volunteer opportunities available in many of the OC Parks facilities. Travel around to park booths to meet park staff, ask questions, and learn what a “day in the life” of a typical volunteer would be like. Please feel free to bring along family and friends and enjoy a self-guided hike through the beautiful trails of Upper Newport Bay before or after your visit to the event!

This event is for everyone — whether you are interested in joining the OC Parks Volunteer Program or are an existing volunteer and would like to expand your volunteer role in OC Parks and get connected with a park facility to complete facility certification training. Visit as many or as few park booths as you are interested in — there’s truly something for everyone!

This is an open house style event so drop by anytime between 4:00 and 7:00 p.m. Light refreshments will be provided, and parking is free. Please feel free to reach out to OC Parks Volunteer Services at volunteer@ocparks.com with any questions, and we look forward to meeting you then!

Representatives from the following park facilities and organizations will be in attendance:

OC Parks Volunteer Information Night
Date:
Thu, 04/11/2024
Time:
4:00 PM - 7:00 PM
Where:
Upper Newport Bay
Difficulty Rating:
1
Minimum Age:
16
Spaces Left:
105 of 150
More Information  

Evening Hike on Hicks Haul Road

Hiking & Fitness
Evening Hike on Hicks Haul Road

Enjoy an evening hike through stunning rock formations and fragrant native plants as you listen to the sounds of nature. This hike in the Irvine Open Space Preserve is done at an easy walking pace. This out-and-back program travels 3.5 miles round trip to scenic Loma Ridge and back down. Please bring a red-tinted flashlight as the return portion of the hike may be after sunset.

Evening Hike on Hicks Haul Road
Date:
Thu, 04/11/2024
Time:
6:00 PM - 7:30 PM
Where:
Irvine Open Space Preserve
Difficulty Rating:
2
Distance:
3.5 miles
Minimum Age:
12
Spaces Left:
19 of 25
More Information  
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