Wilderness Access Day – Black Star Canyon, Equestrian

PLEASE NOTE OUR SUMMER HOURS OF 7am – 1pm

Come explore the beauty in Black Star Canyon! Enjoy self-guided access in magnificent Black Star and Baker Canyons. Designated trails will be open for self-guided hiking, biking, and equestrian use from 7am to 1pm for all you trail lovers! Riders should have trail riding experience and a fit and able horse. Riders must also have the ability to transport their horse to the staging area.

There is limited space for equestrian parking. Later attendees may be turned away from the event; carpooling is strongly encouraged. It is a “first come, first serve” for trailer parking and therefore pre-registration and early arrival (gates open at 7am) is HIGHLY recommended.

All participants MUST check in and complete their registration at the Baker Staging Area prior to accessing the trail system. You must dismount your horse to check-in.

Trail routes vary in distance and level of difficulty. Please plan accordingly. Choices range from easy 30-minute rides to 6+ miles of a moderate ride.

Participants are required to stay on designated trails at all times. In addition to being a rare and sensitive habit, the Irvine Ranch Open Space is under strict protection. There are often unseen dangers just off-trail including, but not limited to: mountain lions, poison oak, ticks, poisonous spiders, and venomous snakes. OC Rangers may issue citations for visitors found off-trail.

Other Important Notes:
Trail users are allowed to enter the wilderness trails until 12:00pm, at which time registration will close.

OC Park Rangers require all trails to be cleared for closure by 1:00pm.

Minors, ages 18 and under, should be accompanied by a parent or guardian.

Adult equestrians are requested to wear helmets. Minors are required to wear helmets per state law.

As an equestrian rider, please email info@irconservancy.org at least 72 hours prior to the event so that we may verify whether your trailer can be accommodated in our parking configuration. Trailer parking is very limited and is subject to “first come, first served.”

Inclement weather or fire danger will cause the program to be cancelled.

To minimize the human impact on wildlife and their habitat, there may be unannounced trail closures or the rotation of areas being open and closed. This is an adaptive management approach to accommodate both the human users and the wildlife needs.

Please email info@irconservancy.org with questions and for more information. All participants must register in the Baker Staging Area before accessing the trail system. Trail maps and day use badge will be provided upon check in.