Irvine Ranch Natural Landmarks

Black Star Canyon offers pleasant introductory trails for beginner hikers and families, and challenging experiences for seasoned trail users. Designated trails are available for self-guided access for hiking, biking and equestrian use by connecting various loops to offer extended exploration throughout the canyons. Take time to explore the local plant communities and beautiful scenery in easy 30-minutes walks or take in 7+ miles in a strong cardio trek.

Parking is limited on Black Star Canyon Road and carpooling is strongly encouraged. All participants are requested to check-in and complete their registration at the Registration Booth prior to accessing the trail system. If you are found to be on the trails without a day use pass you will be immediately directed back to the staging area.

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 Parks Rangers may issue citations for visitors found off-trail so for your safety, please stay on the designated paths during your stay in Black Star Canyon.

Other Important Notes:

• OC Park Rangers require all trails to be cleared for closure by 2:00pm.
• No new trail users will be permitted onto the trails at least one hour prior to closing.
• Dogs are prohibited on the Irvine Ranch Open Space. No matter how cute yours may be, by nature, dogs are predators; their presence and their lingering scent disturb the indigenous wildlife and disrupt vital routines long after a dog has left the area.
• Minors, ages 18 and under, should be accompanied by a parent or guardian.
• Adult mountain bikers and equestrians are requested to wear helmets. Minors are required to wear helmets per state law.
• If you are an equestrian, there is a separate registration designated for you found at www.LetsGoOutside.org/activities and click under “Wilderness Access Day – Equestrians.” Once registered, 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.

Multi-use trail etiquette: Please Remember that bikers yield to hikers and that bikers and hikers yield to equestrians. Click here for more trail tips.

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.

There are other activities nestled within Wilderness Access Day that you, your family and friends may enjoy. An interpretive booth with fun hands-on items is available each month to help better connect your experiences to the great outdoors. Also, there is a separate guided program that is led by IRC-Certified volunteers. If interested in joining this program, please register at www.LetsGoOutside.org/activities and click under “Exploring Black Star.” You will need to sign in on the Exploring Black Star roster upon your arrival.