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.

Updated Difficulty Ratings: The Hiking and Fitness Difficulty Ratings have been updated to reflect our current activities. Please click below to read the ratings.

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

Search & Filter Activities

Friday, November 22, 2024

Autumn Morning Fitness Hike with Yoga at Bommer Cattle Camp

Hiking & Fitness
Autumn Morning Fitness Hike with Yoga at Bommer Cattle Camp

Join us for a five-mile moderate fitness hike (averaging about 3 mph) with rolling hills before experiencing yoga the Cattle Camp. This historic old west setting connects us with the history of The Irvine Ranch and the barn’s outdoor stage is perfect for yoga. The hike is highlighted with beautiful views of the canyon and the yoga is suitable for those with little or no experience, focused on hips, legs and core. Our focus on breath calms the nervous system and has a positive effect on mental, emotional and physical health. If you have never been to the Cattle Camp before you will be surprised how connected you feel to the cowboys that worked on this land. Please bring water, a yoga mat plus a large beach towel and wear shoes appropriate for hiking.

Autumn Morning Fitness Hike with Yoga at Bommer Cattle Camp
Date:
Fri, 11/22/2024
Time:
8:00 am - 11:00 am
Where:
Bommer Canyon Preserve
Difficulty Rating:
3
Distance:
5 miles
Minimum Age:
18
Spaces Left:
Registration has closed.
More Information  

Biking the Bay

Mountain Biking
Biking the Bay

Join OC Parks for an interpretive bike ride around Upper Newport Bay! Participants will have the opportunity to get their heart rate up and pedal around the Bay, all while learning about local ecology and history.

This moderately-paced ride will cover a 10 mile section of the Back Bay Loop trail over the course of 2 and a half hours. We will remain on the paved portion of the trail and will have interpretative stops along the way.

Participants must provide their own bike and helmet. E-bikes are welcome. Please note that the pace and talking points are geared towards individuals aged 14 and up. Minors under age 18 must be accompanied by an adult guardian.

Distance: 10 miles
Elevation Change: 155 feet

Advance registration required. The parking and program are free. Rain or adverse weather will cancel the event.

Biking the Bay
Date:
Fri, 11/22/2024
Time:
8:00 am - 10:30 am
Where:
Upper Newport Bay
Difficulty Rating:
2
Minimum Age:
14
Spaces Left:
Registration has closed.
More Information  

Growing Together at the Native Seed Farm

Stewardship
Growing Together 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 Irvine! Every day at the farm is different; depending on the needs of the farm we will be harvesting seeds from beautiful native plants, planting new seeds in the annual plots, working in our native plant demo garden, or tending to younger seedlings in our nursery.

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! 

Growing Together at the Native Seed Farm
Date:
Fri, 11/22/2024
Time:
8:00 am - 11:00 am
Where:
Native Seed Farm OCP
Difficulty Rating:
2
Minimum Age:
8
Spaces Left:
Registration has closed.
More Information  

Fourth Friday Habitat Restoration in Buck Gully

Stewardship
Fourth Friday Habitat Restoration in Buck Gully

Birds and other wildlife need healthy habitat to thrive. Simple things like planting native plants or removing non-native plants can greatly improve habitat for wildlife. You can be part of that positive impact while enjoying the beauty of Buck Gully near Newport Beach. Come help us with a variety of activities ranging from seed collection to weeding invasive plants.

This activity takes place on sloped terrain and sturdy hiking boots are highly recommended. All training, tools, and gloves will be provided to ensure your safety and comfort. Rattlesnakes are occasionally seen here and generally avoid people, but protective gear will be provided.

Fourth Friday Habitat Restoration in Buck Gully
Date:
Fri, 11/22/2024
Time:
9:00 am - 12:00 pm
Where:
Buck Gully Reserve
Difficulty Rating:
3
Distance:
0 miles
Minimum Age:
18
Spaces Left:
Full
More Information  

Saturday, November 23, 2024

Intro to Cardio Hike: Weir Canyon

Hiking & Fitness
Intro to Cardio Hike: Weir Canyon

Thinking the cardio hikes might be too fast for you? If so, join us in beautiful Weir Canyon for this slower introduction to cardio hiking. Along the trail, you’ll pass through coastal sage scrub, grasslands, and oak woodlands where deer and bobcats are frequently observed. We will take breaks as needed but will try to keep a 2.5 mile per hour pace and will go 4 miles and around 900 ft elevation gain.

Intro to Cardio Hike: Weir Canyon
Date:
Sat, 11/23/2024
Time:
7:00 am - 10:00 am
Where:
Weir Canyon Nature Preserve
Difficulty Rating:
3
Distance:
4 miles
Minimum Age:
16
Spaces Left:
10 of 25
More Information  

Limestone Canyon – Weekend Hike to Both Sides of the Sinks

Hiking & Fitness
Limestone Canyon - Weekend Hike to Both Sides of the Sinks

Join us on this moderate-paced hike over the ridge and the through beautiful Limestone Canyon Nature Preserve, part of OC Parks’ Irvine Ranch Open Space. We will enjoy short breaks at the East and West Sinks viewing platforms before hiking back through the canyon. We will enjoy a view of wonderful vistas in addition to spectacular view of The Sinks. This hike involves hiking on both double and single-track trails with an elevation gain of 1000.

Limestone Canyon - Weekend Hike to Both Sides of the Sinks
Date:
Sat, 11/23/2024
Time:
7:00 am - 11:00 am
Where:
Limestone Canyon Nature Preserve
Difficulty Rating:
4
Distance:
9.5 miles
Minimum Age:
18
Spaces Left:
Full
More Information  

Bird Walk

Interpretive
Bird Walk

Spot local native and seasonal resident birds with Laguna Canyon Foundation Volunteer naturalists on this slow and easy 2-mile hike over moderate but uneven terrain with up to 50 feet in elevation gain. We will go to Barbara’s Lake and back through one of the most diverse plant communities in the United States. No experience necessary!

Age: 12 or older. Participants under 18 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian.

Location: Nix Nature Center, Laguna Coast Wilderness Park (18751 Laguna Canyon Road, Laguna Beach 92651, East side of Laguna Canyon Rd/SR-133).

Parking: $3/car at Nix Nature Center parking lot. Parking is limited, carpooling is encouraged.

Difficulty Rating: 2/5

Materials: Participants must bring plenty of water, closed-toed shoes, and sun protection. Binoculars are recommended.

Safety precautions and protocols:

Advanced registration required. Every individual, including children, must be registered. Register here.
Group sizes are minimized for safety purposes. For group registrations or questions please email volunteer@lagunacanyon.org
Participants must individually sign a waiver at the beginning of the program. For participants under 18, a parent or guardian must sign the waiver.
To protect all employees, volunteers, and participants, please do not attend if you are not feeling well, have symptoms of illness or have been in contact with someone who was ill.
Contact volunteer@lagunacanyon.org with any questions.

Weather, including high temperatures and wet or muddy trail conditions, may lead to cancellation of this event.

Bird Walk
Date:
Sat, 11/23/2024
Time:
8:00 am - 11:00 am
Where:
Laguna Coast Wilderness Park
Difficulty Rating:
2
Minimum Age:
12
More Information  

Growing Together at the Native Seed Farm

Stewardship
Growing Together 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 Irvine! Every day at the farm is different; depending on the needs of the farm we will be harvesting seeds from beautiful native plants, planting new seeds in the annual plots, working in our native plant demo garden, or tending to younger seedlings in our nursery.

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! 

Growing Together at the Native Seed Farm
Date:
Sat, 11/23/2024
Time:
8:00 am - 11:00 am
Where:
Native Seed Farm COI
Difficulty Rating:
2
Minimum Age:
8
Spaces Left:
Full
More Information  

No Litter November at Whiting Ranch Wilderness Park

Stewardship
No Litter November at Whiting Ranch Wilderness Park

Join Ranger Valentine and OC park volunteers with a trash clean-up day in Whiting Ranch Wilderness Park. Take a morning stroll along the trails while picking up litter to preserve this beautiful landscape!

Ages 10 and up. Minors must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian.

Difficulty Rating: 2/5. Trails vary in difficulty, please consider your capabilities, or notify staff of any considerations.

Materials will be provided. Please bring plenty of water, snacks, close-toed hiking shoes, and dress in layers.

Advanced registration is required. For any questions or concerns, please contact Ranger Valentine at jessica.valentine@ocparks.com

Weather, including high temperatures and wet or muddy trail conditions, may lead to the cancellation of this event.

No Litter November at Whiting Ranch Wilderness Park
Date:
Sat, 11/23/2024
Time:
8:00 am - 10:30 am
Where:
Whiting Ranch Wilderness Park
Difficulty Rating:
Variable
Minimum Age:
10
Spaces Left:
22 of 25
More Information  

Trail Stewardship – Mariposa

Trail Work
Trail Stewardship – Mariposa

If you use the Wilderness Parks for hiking, biking, photography or just relaxing, Trail Work might be right up your alley! Get up close and personal with the trails you use; you’ll see them in a whole new way. No experience necessary. This is FUN hard work. Whatever your skill level is, there is a job to do: clearing drains to get the water off the trail, pruning vegetation back to keep users on the trail, moving dirt to rebuild eroded tread, and restoring impacted areas are just some of the tasks we will accomplish. We will be using tools such as loppers, picks, shovels, and McLeod’s to improve the user experience, protect the fragile habitat and increase the sustainability of our trails. Expect to hike up to 4 miles while carrying tools.

Age: 16 or older. Participants under 18 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian.

Location: James Dilley Preserve, Laguna Coast Wilderness Park (I-5 or 405 south to 133 south to stoplight at 73 toll road; and make a U-turn, go 1 block. Dilley is on the right.).

Parking: Free parking for Trail Stewardship volunteers at James Dilley Preserve parking lot. Parking is limited, carpooling is encouraged.

Difficulty Rating: 3/5

Materials: Participants must bring at least 3 liters of water, closed-toed shoes, long pants, and sun protection. Gloves and tools are provided. Feel free to bring your own gloves if you prefer!

Safety precautions and protocols:

Advanced registration required. Every individual, including children, must be registered. Register here.
Group sizes are minimized for safety purposes. For group registrations or questions please email volunteer@lagunacanyon.org
Participants must individually sign a waiver at the beginning of the program. For participants under 18, a parent or guardian must sign the waiver.
To protect all employees, volunteers, and participants, please do not attend if you are not feeling well, have symptoms of illness or have been in contact with someone who was ill.
Contact volunteer@lagunacanyon.org or nicholas@lagunacanyon.org with any questions.

Weather, including high temperatures and wet or muddy trail conditions, may lead to cancellation of this event.

Trail Stewardship – Mariposa
Date:
Sat, 11/23/2024
Time:
8:00 am - 12:00 pm
Where:
Laguna Coast Wilderness Park
Difficulty Rating:
3
Minimum Age:
16
More Information  

Wilderness Access Day: Saddleback Wilderness

Special Events
Wilderness Access Day: Saddleback Wilderness

Access is first come first served until parking capacity is reached. No registration required.

Equestrians, while space is not guaranteed we encourage you to please email irvineranchopenspace@ocparks.com to coordinate parking.

Come explore 3.3 miles of new trails at Saddleback Wilderness, part of OC Parks’ Irvine Ranch Open Space, through this self-guided opportunity. Designated trails will be open for self-guided hiking, biking and equestrian use. There are multiple trail loop options which vary in distance and level of difficulty. Choices range from an easy one-mile loop to multiple figure-8 configurations for those looking to maximize their mileage. Regardless of distance, nearly all options feature scenic views including a destination vista point offering 360-degree perspectives from the mountains to the sea.

Please review our Trail Tips page and FAQ page to prepare for your experience in the wilderness area.

Wilderness Access Day: Saddleback Wilderness
Date:
Sat, 11/23/2024
Time:
8:00 am - 2:00 pm
Where:
Saddleback Wilderness
Difficulty Rating:
Variable
Minimum Age:
All Ages
Family Friendly:
Yes
More Information  

Art on the Landmarks Bommer Canyon Preserve: Native Animals in the Wild

Interpretive
Art on the Landmarks Bommer Canyon Preserve: Native Animals in the Wild

Join us this Fall for a rare opportunity to draw or paint animals in the wild (they are mounted so it’s not too wild) in Irvine’s Open Space Preserve! If landscapes or relics of the past are more interesting to you, we will have those too. Be inspired by the scenic hills or the nature garden that has been staged with native animals along with interpretive signs that tell the story of the Irvine Ranch.

We are excited to have Jessica Beck (jessicadamsky.com), Saddleback College Art Teacher and Professional Artist, as our special guest for this event! Jessica will demonstrate how to sketch animals and help anyone who needs a little inspiration or instruction. If you prefer to just get started, you are welcome to take a walk around the garden or Cattle Camp to find your perfect setting. Please bring a portable chair, sketch pad, easel, paints, pens, pencils or pastels, and other art supplies as they are not included. Minimum age: 18.

Art on the Landmarks Bommer Canyon Preserve: Native Animals in the Wild
Date:
Sat, 11/23/2024
Time:
8:30 am - 12:00 pm
Where:
Bommer Canyon Preserve
Difficulty Rating:
1
Distance:
0.5 miles
Minimum Age:
18
Spaces Left:
10 of 50
More Information  

Slow-paced Mountain Bike Ride: Limestone Canyon/East Sinks

Mountain Biking
Slow-paced Mountain Bike Ride: Limestone Canyon/East Sinks

Enjoy the relaxation of riding in the wilderness on empty trails. Join us on this docent-led mountain bike ride through Limestone Canyon, part of OCParks’ Irvine Ranch Open Space. We will visit the East Viewing Platform for a panoramic view of the geological feature call The Sinks. The route to The Sinks will include a fun downhill ride on the Dripping Springs single track. The return route will take us on the Limestone Ridge single track with views of Limestone Canyon, Santiago Canyon and the Santa Ana Mountains.

This is a slow-paced ride designed for the beginner that has experience riding fire roads such as Limestone Canyon or Telegraph Canyon but wants to develop their climbing and riding abilities. The ride can also be enjoyed by more advanced riders looking for a relaxed ride in a beautiful setting.

Slow-paced Mountain Bike Ride: Limestone Canyon/East Sinks
Date:
Sat, 11/23/2024
Time:
8:30 am - 11:00 am
Where:
Limestone Canyon Nature Preserve
Difficulty Rating:
3
Distance:
11 miles
Minimum Age:
14
Spaces Left:
Full
More Information  

CANCELLED: Mile Square Story Time

Interpretive
Interpretive

OC Parks invites you to story time at Mile Square Regional Park! Join us on Saturday, November 23rd from 10 – 11 a.m. as we read nature-themed stories, take a short walk, and enjoy a hands-on activity.

Our program is recommended for ages 1-5 but all ages are welcome.

Please bring picnic blankets, pillows, chairs and anything you need to be comfortable. We will meet at Freedom Hall.

Advance registration is recommended but not required.

This program is free and parking is $5 per vehicle.

Inclement weather may cancel this program.

CANCELLED: Mile Square Story Time
Date:
Sat, 11/23/2024
Time:
10:00 am - 11:00 am
Where:
Mile Square Regional Park
Difficulty Rating:
1
Minimum Age:
All Ages
Family Friendly:
Yes
Spaces Left:
18 of 25
More Information  

KIDS Mountain Bike Clinic- Rider Skills for Kids

Mountain Biking
KIDS Mountain Bike Clinic- Rider Skills for Kids

If you’ve got kids showing an interest in mountain biking and want them to learn practical bike handling skills, then join us for the IRC Kid’s Rider Skills Clinic.  The class begins with an overview of bicycle safety and clinic fundamentals followed by a series of exercises demonstrating rider-influenced bike maneuvers such as front & rear wheel lifts, hops, drop/roll-offs, late & emergency braking and cornering techniques over pavement, loose dirt, rocks, logs, ruts & potholes. Watch your budding riders enjoy a fun-filled morning on their bikes while developing confidence navigating rocks, ruts/potholes, step-ups/drop-offs, emergency braking and cornering.

KIDS Mountain Bike Clinic- Rider Skills for Kids
Date:
Sat, 11/23/2024
Time:
10:00 am - 12:00 pm
Where:
Irvine Open Space Preserve
Difficulty Rating:
2
Minimum Age:
8
Spaces Left:
6 of 16
More Information  

Family Hike: Baker Canyon

Interpretive
Family Hike: Baker Canyon

Enjoy an afternoon family hike in Baker Canyon, part of OC Parks’ Irvine Ranch Open Space. We will hike along a flat trail as we watch for red-tailed hawks and mule deer. The hike will average 2 miles round trip at an easy pace with a medium level of interpretation. This program is for participants who would enjoy a slower-paced and level hike. Wear comfortable clothes and sturdy shoes and bring water for the hike.

Family Hike: Baker Canyon
Date:
Sat, 11/23/2024
Time:
3:00 pm - 5:30 pm
Where:
Black Star Canyon Wilderness Park
Difficulty Rating:
2
Distance:
2 miles
Minimum Age:
5
Family Friendly:
Yes
Spaces Left:
Full
More Information  

Twilight Hike in Orchard Hills

Hiking & Fitness
Twilight Hike in Orchard Hills

Come out and enjoy the evening with us on the Orchard Hills loop trail. This trail meanders around an avocado orchard on the edge of the open space preserve and provides fantastic ridge-top views of Irvine and the Pacific coastline.

The three-mile loop has several very steep climbs and uneven terrain. This hike is done at a moderate pace. Your effort is rewarded with a beautiful, unobstructed view to the west. This hike is not suitable for children under 12. Wear sturdy, closed-toed hiking shoes, bring water and a red LED flashlight.

Twilight Hike in Orchard Hills
Date:
Sat, 11/23/2024
Time:
3:00 pm - 5:00 pm
Where:
Orchard Hills
Difficulty Rating:
3
Distance:
3 miles
Minimum Age:
12
Spaces Left:
Full
More Information  

Sunday, November 24, 2024

Early Morning Hike: Fremont Canyon

Hiking & Fitness
Early Morning Hike: Fremont Canyon

Come enjoy an early morning hike in Fremont Canyon Nature Preserve, part of OC Parks’ Irvine Ranch Open Space. Our hike climbs steeply from the mouth of Fremont Canyon, past an abandoned coal mine up to the Fremont Weather Station where winds have been clocked at up to 100 mph. After enjoying the view, we’ll hike back the same way to our starting point. This hike involves steep hills and a 1200’ elevation change but the rewards are panoramic views of Orange County, the Santa Ana Mountains and surrounding areas as well as possible wildlife sightings. Please arrive 15 minutes early; the entrance gate will be shut and locked 5 minutes before start of the activity. Be sure to come prepared with a sturdy day pack, water, snacks, closed-toe hiking shoes or boots, sunscreen, first aid, and all other supplies to keep you safe and healthy on the trail.

Early Morning Hike: Fremont Canyon
Date:
Sun, 11/24/2024
Time:
7:00 am - 9:30 am
Where:
Fremont Canyon Nature Preserve
Difficulty Rating:
4
Distance:
6 miles
Minimum Age:
18
Spaces Left:
Full
More Information  

Land Tending – Berns Canyon Preserve

Stewardship
Land Tending - Berns Canyon Preserve

Join Laguna Canyon Foundation at one of our Land Tending days in Berns Canyon Preserve as we learn and work together to create a healthier habitat for the native plants and wildlife that call the canyon their home. Depending on the time of year, volunteers will assist with various stewardship activities, including removal of non-native plants, hand watering, seed collection, and/or planting of native plants. No experience is necessary. Come out and join the team to help restore the wild lands we all enjoy!

Age: 16 or older. Participants under 18 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian.

Location: Laguna Canyon Foundation Headquarters (10 Phillips St. Laguna Beach, CA 92651, West side of highway 133)

Parking: Free parking for Land Tending volunteers at LCF Headquarters. Parking is limited, carpooling is encouraged.

Difficulty Rating: 2/5

Materials: Participants must bring plenty of water, closed-toed shoes, long pants, and sun protection. Gloves and tools are provided. Long sleeves recommended.

Safety precautions and protocols:

Advanced registration required. Every individual, including children, must be registered. Register here.
Group sizes are minimized for safety purposes. For group registrations or questions please email volunteer@lagunacanyon.org
Participants must individually sign a waiver at the beginning of the program. For participants under 18, a parent or guardian must sign the waiver.
To protect all employees, volunteers, and participants, please do not attend if you are not feeling well, have symptoms of illness or have been in contact with someone who was ill.
Contact volunteer@lagunacanyon.org or marjorie@lagunacanyon.org with any questions.

Weather, including high temperatures and wet or muddy trail conditions, may lead to cancellation of this event.

Land Tending - Berns Canyon Preserve
Date:
Sun, 11/24/2024
Time:
8:00 am - 11:00 am
Where:
Laguna Coast Wilderness Park
Difficulty Rating:
2
Minimum Age:
16
More Information  

Mountain Bike Clinic: Terrain Skills

Mountain Biking
Mountain Bike Clinic: Terrain Skills

If you are new to mountain biking and interested in getting started the right way, or if you just want to hone your existing skills developing terrain-influenced bike handling over several types of man-made features, this is the clinic for you! The class begins with a brief overview of rider fundamentals starting with platform position and weight transfer then covering equipment basics & setup, braking, gearing and a brief bike maintenance Q&A session followed by a series of exercises demonstrating terrain-influenced bike handling over a variety of man-made features including log piles, rock step-ups, A-frames and many more. These riding techniques will be taught and practiced at the Mountain Bike Skills Development area. This activity originates in the City of Irvine and travels into OC Parks’ Irvine Ranch Open Space.

Mountain Bike Clinic: Terrain Skills
Date:
Sun, 11/24/2024
Time:
8:00 am - 12:00 pm
Where:
Irvine Open Space Preserve
Difficulty Rating:
3
Distance:
2.5 miles
Minimum Age:
16
Spaces Left:
4 of 15
More Information  
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