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.

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Found 469 Events

Sunday, March 31, 2024

Sunday Fitness Hike at Hicks Haul

Hiking & Fitness
Sunday Fitness Hike at Hicks Haul

Join us Sunday morning in OCParks’ Irvine Ranch Open Space for a fitness-focused hike on the Hicks Haul Road, West Loma and Shoestring trails in Limestone Canyon. Hikers will enjoy wonderful views and a panoramic overview of Orange County. The hike starts at Hicks Haul Road staging area and will cover a distance of 8.5 miles, about 5 miles of the hike is on paved surface and rest on trails. Participants are expected to hike close to 3 miles per hour and come prepared with closed toe hiking boots or shoes, water, trail snacks, sunscreen, hat, day pack or fanny pack, and any other necessary equipment or supplies you might need to keep you safe on this hike.

Sunday Fitness Hike at Hicks Haul
Date:
Sun, 03/31/2024
Time:
7:00 AM - 10:00 AM
Where:
Limestone Canyon Nature Preserve
Difficulty Rating:
4
Distance:
8.5 miles
Minimum Age:
18
Spaces Left:
22 of 25
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. Bring a lunch and we can relax while we take in the beauty around us at the Sinks Viewing Deck. Then we will finish our ride back to the staging area.

Reviewing the 1-through-5 Difficulty Ratings will help you evaluate your readiness to participate in this level-3 activity on the land. Please visit our FAQ page for answers to activity specific questions you may have prior to registering.

Agua Chinon Equestrian Ride
Date:
Sun, 03/31/2024
Time:
10:00 AM - 12:30 PM
Where:
Limestone Canyon Nature Preserve
Difficulty Rating:
3
Distance:
6 miles
Minimum Age:
18
Spaces Left:
8 of 8
More Information  

Monday, April 1, 2024

Monday Morning Super Trek: Quail Hill

Hiking & Fitness
Monday Morning Super Trek: Quail Hill

Come start your week with us on our Super Treks in the Landmarks. Join us as we explore the City of Irvine’s Open Space Preserve, hiking Quail Hill and Shady Canyon trails. Our hike will climb through rocky terrain and reward us with spectacular views of the surrounding hills and nearby Irvine. There will be several steep ascents and descents. Participants must be able to hike 9 miles with an elevation gain of 2000 feet at an average moving rate of 3 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!

Monday Morning Super Trek: Quail Hill
Date:
Mon, 04/01/2024
Time:
7:30 AM - 11:30 AM
Where:
Quail Hill
Difficulty Rating:
4
Distance:
9 miles
Minimum Age:
18
Spaces Left:
16 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, 04/01/2024
Time:
6:00 PM - 7:30 PM
Where:
Irvine Open Space Preserve
Difficulty Rating:
3
Distance:
3.5 miles
Minimum Age:
16
Spaces Left:
24 of 25
More Information  

Tuesday, April 2, 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, 04/02/2024
Time:
7:30 AM - 10:30 AM
Where:
Limestone Canyon Nature Preserve
Difficulty Rating:
3
Distance:
8 miles
Minimum Age:
16
Spaces Left:
25 of 25
More Information  

Enjoy Nature’s Story, Vistas, and Special Places – Intro Hike in Limestone Canyon

Hiking & Fitness
Enjoy Nature's Story, Vistas, and Special Places - Intro Hike in Limestone Canyon

Join us on a slow-paced hike along the back-country ridges and valleys of Limestone Canyon, part of OCParks’ Irvine Ranch Open Space. We’ll travel on rough old ranch roads passing by woodlands of majestic oak trees and expanses of Coastal Sage Scrub. Enjoy wonderful vistas from Loma Ridge. Total round trip distance is 6 miles with an elevation gain of 1100 feet at an average moving rate of 2.0-2.5 miles per hour. Some of the hills are strenuous and we will take breaks as needed. Participants should be in good hiking condition and have previously completed a similar distance hike. Please come prepared with a backpack, plenty of water (at least 1 liter), snacks, sturdy closed-toe hiking shoes or boots, sunscreen, first aid kit, and all other supplies to keep you safe and healthy on the trail. Each hiker must carry their own water and supplies. Under-prepared participants may be denied access to the event.

Enjoy Nature's Story, Vistas, and Special Places - Intro Hike in Limestone Canyon
Date:
Tue, 04/02/2024
Time:
8:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Where:
Limestone Canyon Nature Preserve
Difficulty Rating:
3
Distance:
6 miles
Minimum Age:
16
Spaces Left:
17 of 20
More Information  

Open Space Invaders: Invasive Plant Removal at Agua Chinon

Stewardship
Open Space Invaders: Invasive Plant Removal at Agua Chinon

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 Agua Chinon
Date:
Tue, 04/02/2024
Time:
8:00 AM - 11:30 AM
Where:
Limestone Canyon Nature Preserve
Difficulty Rating:
4
Distance:
0 miles
Minimum Age:
18
Spaces Left:
3 of 4
More Information  

Buck Gully Upper Loop Evening Hike

Hiking & Fitness
Buck Gully Upper Loop Evening Hike

Explore the richness of Newport Beach’s Buck Gully Reserve as we hike during the beautiful early evening hours. The stream is running and the rich plant and animal life is enjoying the cool, shady canyon, making for a fantastic evening hike in a natural oasis amid the suburban surroundings. We’ll walk along San Joaquin Hills Road, which overlooks Buck Gully, for the first mile and then drop down into the canyon on the Bobcat Trail, looping back through the upper end of the gully along the Buck Gully Trail. This activity is conducted at a walking pace, approximately 3 miles per hour.

Buck Gully Upper Loop Evening Hike
Date:
Tue, 04/02/2024
Time:
4:00 PM - 6:30 PM
Where:
Buck Gully Reserve
Difficulty Rating:
3
Distance:
4 miles
Minimum Age:
12
Spaces Left:
20 of 20
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, 04/02/2024
Time:
6:00 PM - 7:30 PM
Where:
Irvine Open Space Preserve
Difficulty Rating:
2
Distance:
3.5 miles
Minimum Age:
12
Spaces Left:
25 of 25
More Information  

Wednesday, April 3, 2024

Mid-Week Distance Hike: Agua Chinon, Sinks and Springs

Hiking & Fitness
Mid-Week Distance Hike: Agua Chinon, Sinks and Springs

Recharge your batteries with a refreshing mid-week hike through the Agua Chinon Wash in Limestone Canyon Nature Preserve. This hike will visit The Sinks and other possible destinations such as Box Springs, Dripping Springs, Loma Ridge, Limestone Canyon, Limestone Ridge or the “water tank” beyond the East Sinks viewing area.

This hike involves multiple steep climbs and descents, with 2100+ feet of accumulated climbing elevation, but is done at a moderate pace of approximately 3 mph. Please bring plenty of water and wear sturdy shoes. Hike distance is 12-14 miles. This activity originates in the City of Irvine and travels into OC Parks’ Limestone Canyon Nature Preserve.

Mid-Week Distance Hike: Agua Chinon, Sinks and Springs
Date:
Wed, 04/03/2024
Time:
6:30 AM - 1:00 PM
Where:
Irvine Open Space Preserve
Difficulty Rating:
5
Distance:
14 miles
Minimum Age:
18
Spaces Left:
Registration for this event opens at 8:00am on 03/19/2024
More Information  

Early Morning Hike: Weir Canyon

Hiking & Fitness
Early Morning Hike: Weir Canyon

Join us on this early morning hike enjoying beautiful Weir Canyon Nature Preserve, part of OC Parks’ Irvine Ranch Open Space.  Starting in Irvine Regional Park, we pass through Lower and Upper Weir Canyon to a scenic overlook. We then head down Upper Blind Canyon as we wind our way back to our starting point.  This hike is around 9.5 miles with one significant climb and descent.

Early Morning Hike: Weir Canyon
Date:
Wed, 04/03/2024
Time:
7:00 AM - 11:00 AM
Where:
Weir Canyon Nature Preserve
Difficulty Rating:
4
Distance:
9.5 miles
Minimum Age:
18
Spaces Left:
Registration for this event opens at 8:00am on 03/19/2024
More Information  

Limestone Canyon Truck Tour for Alzheimer’s of OC

Interpretive
Limestone Canyon Truck Tour for Alzheimer's of OC

Join us on a backcountry wilderness driving tour filled with great sightseeing opportunities. Our journey begins at the Augustine Staging Area, where you will board the back of an open-air, ten-seat, 4-wheel drive vehicle for a tour of Limestone Canyon.
 We will stop occasionally for 10-15 minutes or so to admire the views, take photos and answer questions.

Limestone Canyon Truck Tour for Alzheimer's of OC
Date:
Wed, 04/03/2024
Time:
9:00 AM - 12:30 PM
Where:
Limestone Canyon Nature Preserve
Difficulty Rating:
2
Distance:
8 miles
Minimum Age:
18
More Information  

Native Happenings at The Farm; Mushrooms

Interpretive
Native Happenings at The Farm; Mushrooms

Explore the wonders of nature in our captivating new nature series at The Native Seed Farm! Each topic will be different; from the importance of pollinators to the resilience of native plants, each discussion unveils the beauty of the connections we make with nature. Come spark an interest at The Native Seed Farm for your next adventure!

Native Happenings at The Farm; Mushrooms
Date:
Wed, 04/03/2024
Time:
9:00 AM - 11:00 AM
Where:
Native Seed Farm OCP
Difficulty Rating:
1
Minimum Age:
12
Spaces Left:
Registration for this event opens at 8:00am on 03/19/2024
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 OCParks’ 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, 04/03/2024
Time:
6:00 PM - 7:30 PM
Where:
Limestone Canyon Nature Preserve
Difficulty Rating:
3
Distance:
3.5 miles
Minimum Age:
16
Spaces Left:
Registration for this event opens at 8:00am on 03/19/2024
More Information  

Thursday, April 4, 2024

Thursday Morning Trek: Fremont Canyon

Hiking & Fitness
Thursday Morning Trek: Fremont Canyon

This week in OCParks’ Irvine Ranch Open Space, we’ll hike in the remote Fremont Canyon. The hike is just under 6 miles and includes a steep hill. We will hike from the mouth of Fremont Canyon, past a historic coal mine, to the Fremont Weather Station. After enjoying a spectacular view, we will hike back the same way to our starting point. Please bring water, a trail snack, sun screen, hat, and any other necessary equipment to keep you safe on the trail and wear sturdy, closed-toe hiking shoes. Participants must be able to hike 6 miles with an elevation gain of 1200 feet at an average moving rate of 3 miles per hour. Each hiker must carry his/her own water and supplies.

Thursday Morning Trek: Fremont Canyon
Date:
Thu, 04/04/2024
Time:
7:30 AM - 10:30 AM
Where:
Fremont Canyon Nature Preserve
Difficulty Rating:
4
Distance:
6 miles
Minimum Age:
16
Spaces Left:
Registration for this event opens at 8:00am on 03/20/2024
More Information  

Hiking 101: Trail Tips for Beginners – Saddleback Wilderness

Hiking & Fitness
Hiking 101: Trail Tips for Beginners - Saddleback Wilderness

Hiking is a great way to connect to nature and stay healthy and active. If you are new to the outdoors, it can be difficult to know where to begin. Come out to the Saddleback Wilderness, part of OC Parks’ Irvine Ranch Open Space, and start your hiking journey, or continue your existing one, on the right foot. Hiking 101 will help you understand gear, build your knowledge and skills and provide tips to assist you out on the trails. We will lead you through the basics of hiking: defining your hiking goals, packing appropriately, understanding and minimizing risks, and practicing proper trail etiquette. The activity will include a packing demonstration and a hike through our wildlands. No experience is necessary for this activity. 

Hiking 101: Trail Tips for Beginners - Saddleback Wilderness
Date:
Thu, 04/04/2024
Time:
9:00 AM - 11:30 AM
Where:
Saddleback Wilderness
Difficulty Rating:
2
Distance:
3.5 miles
Minimum Age:
6
Spaces Left:
Registration for this event opens at 8:00am on 03/20/2024
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, 04/04/2024
Time:
6:00 PM - 7:30 PM
Where:
Irvine Open Space Preserve
Difficulty Rating:
2
Distance:
3.5 miles
Minimum Age:
12
Spaces Left:
Registration for this event opens at 8:00am on 03/20/2024
More Information  

Friday, April 5, 2024

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, 04/05/2024
Time:
8:00 AM - 11:00 AM
Where:
Native Seed Farm OCP
Difficulty Rating:
2
Minimum Age:
8
Spaces Left:
Registration for this event opens at 8:00am on 03/21/2024
More Information  

Morning Hike at Saddleback Wilderness

Interpretive
Morning Hike at Saddleback Wilderness

Explore Saddleback Wilderness and hike some of OC Parks’ newest trails.

Learn about native plants and animals that call the area home and experience some of the best views the canyons have to offer. Wildflowers in this area are generally in full swing during March-April hikes. This moderate hike on unpaved dirt trails will be approximately 2.5 miles round trip with 200 feet of elevation gain. Highlights will include Saddleback Park racetrack and the habitat’s remarkable recovery since its closure almost 40 years ago.

Participants should come prepared with water, snacks, sun protection and sturdy walking shoes. Rain will cancel the program. Minors must be accompanied by a parent or guardian at all times.

Advance registration required.

Morning Hike at Saddleback Wilderness
Date:
Fri, 04/05/2024
Time:
8:00 AM - 10:00 AM
Where:
Saddleback Wilderness
Difficulty Rating:
2
Minimum Age:
12
Spaces Left:
Registration for this event opens at 12:00am on 03/22/2024
More Information  

Spring Morning Yoga Hike at Bommer Cattle Camp

Hiking & Fitness
Spring Morning Yoga Hike at Bommer Cattle Camp

Join us at Bommer Canyon for a moderate five mile hike before experiencing a gentle yoga practice at the Cattle Camp. This historic old west setting connects us with the history of The Irvine Ranch and the barn’s outdoor dance floor 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, slower in pace and gentle in practice. Our focus on breath calms the nervous system and has a positive effect on mental, emotional and physical health. Please bring water, a yoga mat plus a large beach towel and wear shoes appropriate for hiking (no cowboy boots please).

Spring Morning Yoga Hike at Bommer Cattle Camp
Date:
Fri, 04/05/2024
Time:
8:00 AM - 11:00 AM
Where:
Bommer Canyon Preserve
Difficulty Rating:
3
Distance:
5 miles
Minimum Age:
18
Spaces Left:
Registration for this event opens at 8:00am on 03/21/2024
More Information  
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