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 118 Events

Monday, December 7, 2015

Morning Yoga in Agua Chinon

Hiking & Fitness
Morning Yoga in Agua Chinon

Join us for this relaxing combination of hiking and yoga in Agua Chinon. Come take a leisure walk through the local oak woodland, finding unity within nature. Then we will return to our yoga mats where we will be led in 45 to 60 minutes of guided yoga, as the canyon slowly warms up for the day.

Please wear comfortable clothes and bring a durable yoga mat to rest on the dirt. An extra cloth or padding is highly recommended. Some mornings are chilly, so dress in layers that are flexible to move in; jeans are not recommended. This activity originates in the City of Irvine and travels into OC Parks’ Limestone Canyon Nature Preserve.

Reviewing the 1-through-5 Difficulty Ratings will help you evaluate your readiness to participate in this level-2 activity on the land.

Morning Yoga in Agua Chinon
Date:
Mon, 12/07/2015
Time:
9:00 AM - 10:30 AM
Where:
Irvine Open Space Preserve
Difficulty Rating:
2
Distance:
3 miles
Minimum Age:
16
Spaces Left:
Registration has closed.
More Information  

After Work Fitness Hike on Paved Hicks Haul Road

Hiking & Fitness
Hiking & Fitness

Join us every Monday night for a fitness-focused hike on the paved Hicks Haul Road. During the summer, 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!

Reviewing the 1-through-5 Difficulty Ratings will help you evaluate your readiness to participate in this level-3 activity on the land.

After Work Fitness Hike on Paved Hicks Haul Road
Date:
Mon, 12/07/2015
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 has closed.
More Information  

Orchard Hills Evening Hike

Hiking & Fitness
Orchard Hills Evening Hike

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, but the hike is done at a moderate pace. The effort is rewarded with a beautiful, unobstructed view to the west. Please bring water and wear sturdy shoes. This hike is not suitable for children under 12.

Reviewing the 1-through-5 Difficulty Ratings will help you evaluate your readiness to participate in this level-3 activity on the land

Orchard Hills Evening Hike
Date:
Mon, 12/07/2015
Time:
6:30 PM - 8:30 PM
Where:
Orchard Hills
Difficulty Rating:
3
Distance:
3 miles
Minimum Age:
12
Spaces Left:
Registration has closed.
More Information  

Tuesday, December 8, 2015

Watering the Native Plant Nursery at Quail Hill

Stewardship
Stewardship

Watering the Native Plant Nursery at the Quail Hill Trailhead, inside the gated yard off the parking lot. Germinating seeds under the black shade cloth: water under the mist setting to moisten soil and cover back with shade cloth. All other grass plugs and 4″ pots not covered: water under the shower setting once, either Thursday or Saturday (Nicole to water these on Mondays). These are OK to dry out between watering. The larger, gallon sized pots do not need to be watered unless noted prior to your shift. Watering can occur at any time during your said available days.

*Stephen’s days: Tuesdays, Thursdays, Saturdays

**No need to water during rainy days.

Watering the Native Plant Nursery at Quail Hill
Date:
Tue, 12/08/2015 - Tue, 12/22/2015
Time:
7:00 AM - 7:30 AM
Where:
Quail Hill
Difficulty Rating:
1
Minimum Age:
18
More Information  

Birds of Mason Regional Park

Interpretive
Interpretive

Come out and join an OC Parks volunteer and experienced birdwatcher in a program discussing the diversity of birds at Mason Regional Park! On an easy 1/2 mile walk, you will view and discuss a variety of birds that call Mason Park home. We will check for different types of ducks, geese, greebes and songbirds. Water, sunscreen, hats and comfortable shoes are recommended. Don’t forget to bring your binoculars to get the best views of the birds!

For questions call 949-923-2220. Parking: $3.

Birds of Mason Regional Park
Date:
Tue, 12/08/2015
Time:
9:00 AM - 10:30 AM
Where:
Mason Regional Park
Difficulty Rating:
1
Minimum Age:
All Ages
Family Friendly:
Yes
More Information  

California Native Plants Historical Uses

Interpretive
Interpretive

Led by Laguna Canyon Foundation in partnership with OC Parks. Learn about the many fascinating uses of California native plants during the pre-mission period, on this 2-mile hike (490-ft elevation gain) over steep and uneven terrain. This hike will focus on plants used historically for tools, food and building materials. For ages 12 and up. Laguna Coast Wilderness Park, James Dilley Preserve (I-5 or 405 south to 133 south to stoplight at 73 toll road; make a U-turn, go 1 block. Dilley is on the right). Online reservations required: www.lagunacanyon.org/activities.html. For questions call: 949-497-8324. Parking: $3.

California Native Plants Historical Uses
Date:
Tue, 12/08/2015
Time:
9:00 AM - 11:00 AM
Where:
Laguna Coast Wilderness Park
Difficulty Rating:
3
Minimum Age:
12
More Information  

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 walk on the paved Hicks Haul Road. 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.

Reviewing the 1-through-5 Difficulty Ratings will help you evaluate your readiness to participate in this level-3/4 activity on the land.

The road is paved and the terrain is smooth, so this is a great walk for anyone who wants a “wilderness experience” without getting dirty!  We will have two fairly steep hill ascents and descents. 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.

Walkers should be confident in their ability to hike 3, 6, or 8 miles at a steady pace. Ages 16 and up. Low interpretation.

Tuesday Morning Fitness Hike on Paved Hicks Haul Road
Date:
Tue, 12/08/2015
Time:
9:00 AM - 11:30 AM
Where:
Limestone Canyon Nature Preserve
Difficulty Rating:
3
Distance:
8 miles
Minimum Age:
16
Spaces Left:
Registration has closed.
More Information  

Wednesday, December 9, 2015

Mid-Week Hike: Agua Chinon and The Sinks

Hiking & Fitness
Mid-Week Hike: Agua Chinon and The Sinks

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, Loma Ridge, Limestone Ridge and Limestone Canyon.

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 10-12 miles. This activity originates in the City of Irvine and travels into OC Parks’ Limestone Canyon Nature Preserve.

Reviewing the 1-through-5 Difficulty Ratings will help you evaluate your readiness to participate in this level-4 activity on the land.

Mid-Week Hike: Agua Chinon and The Sinks
Date:
Wed, 12/09/2015
Time:
8:00 AM - 1:00 PM
Where:
Irvine Open Space Preserve
Difficulty Rating:
4
Distance:
8.5 miles
Minimum Age:
15
Spaces Left:
Registration has closed.
More Information  

Morning Yoga in Bommer Canyon

Hiking & Fitness
Morning Yoga in Bommer Canyon

Join us for this relaxing combination of hiking and yoga in Bommer Canyon. Participants will hike around a 1-mile loop, strolling through the local meadow and finding unity within nature. Then we will return to our yoga mats where we will be led in 45 to 60 minutes of guided yoga, as the canyon slowly warms up for the day.

Please wear comfortable clothes and bring a durable yoga mat to rest on the dirt. An extra cloth or padding is highly recommended, in addition to two towels for yoga positioning assistance. Some mornings are chilly, so dress in layers that are flexible to move in; jeans are not recommended. Remember to wear sun protection for the hike such as a hat and sunscreen.

Reviewing the 1-through-5 Difficulty Ratings will help you evaluate your readiness to participate in this level-2 activity on the land.

Morning Yoga in Bommer Canyon
Date:
Wed, 12/09/2015
Time:
9:30 AM - 11:00 AM
Where:
Bommer Canyon Preserve
Difficulty Rating:
2
Distance:
1 miles
Minimum Age:
16
Spaces Left:
Registration has closed.
More Information  

Sea Glass Jewelry

Interpretive
Interpretive

Enjoy a free sea glass jewelry making activity on Wednesdays from 10 a.m.-4 p.m. in the Education Commons in the Historic District at Crystal Cove State Park (Park in the Los Trancos lot – PCH inland at stoplight Los Trancos then walk across the street or take the shuttle.)  Learn how to turn sea glass into a one of a kind creation.  Day-use fee: $5/per hour (max. $15)

No pre-registration is required.

Sea Glass Jewelry
Date:
Wed, 12/09/2015
Time:
10:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Where:
Crystal Cove State Park
Difficulty Rating:
1
Minimum Age:
12
Family Friendly:
Yes
More Information  

After Work Fitness Hike on Paved Hicks Haul Road

Hiking & Fitness
Hiking & Fitness

Join us every Wednesday night for a fitness-focused hike on the paved Hicks Haul Road. During the summer, 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 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!

Reviewing the 1-through-5 Difficulty Ratings will help you evaluate your readiness to participate in this level-3 activity on the land.

After Work Fitness Hike on Paved Hicks Haul Road
Date:
Wed, 12/09/2015
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 has closed.
More Information  

Thursday, December 10, 2015

Fitness Hike at Dilley

Hiking & Fitness
Hiking & Fitness

Led by Laguna Canyon Foundation volunteers in partnership with OC parks. Raise your heart rate and your spirits on this strenuous, fast-paced, 5.5-mile hike over steep and uneven terrain (571-ft. elevation gain). Ages 15 and up. Laguna Coast Wilderness Park, James Dilley Preserve (I-5 or 405 south to 133 south to stoplight at the 73 toll road; and make a U-turn, go 1 block. Dilley is on the right.) Online reservations required: www.lagunacanyon.org/activities.html. For questions call: 949-497-8324. Parking: $3.

Fitness Hike at Dilley
Date:
Thu, 12/10/2015
Time:
8:30 AM - 10:30 AM
Where:
Laguna Coast Wilderness Park
Difficulty Rating:
3
Minimum Age:
15
More Information  

Second Thursday Habitat Restoration in Newport Bay

Stewardship
Second Thursday Habitat Restoration in Newport Bay

Birds and other wildlife need healthy habitat to thrive. Simple things like weeding and planting native plants can greatly improve habitat for wildlife. You can be part of that positive impact while enjoying the beauty of Newport Bay and Big Canyon. All training, tools, and gloves will be provided to ensure your safety and comfort. Note that this activity is held on the 2nd Thursday of each month.

Reviewing the 1-through-5 Difficulty Ratings will help you evaluate your readiness to participate in this level-3 activity on the land.

 

Second Thursday Habitat Restoration in Newport Bay
Date:
Thu, 12/10/2015
Time:
9:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Where:
Big Canyon Nature Park
Difficulty Rating:
3
Minimum Age:
14
Spaces Left:
Registration has closed.
More Information  

The Lure and Lull of Limestone Canyon and The Sinks Equestrian Ride

Equestrian
The Lure and Lull of Limestone Canyon and The Sinks Equestrian Ride

Take a leisurely equestrian ride through beautiful Limestone Canyon, home of oak woodlands, grasslands, and coastal sage scrub.  View evidence of the old ranch days when cattle once roamed the area, and see some of the wild flowers that are native to our area.  You will also see The Sinks, a sandstone formation which is sometimes called the “Grand Canyon of Orange County.”

Riders should have trail riding experience and a fit and able horse.  They must have the ability to transport their horse 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.

The Lure and Lull of Limestone Canyon and The Sinks Equestrian Ride
Date:
Thu, 12/10/2015
Time:
10:00 AM - 2:00 PM
Where:
Limestone Canyon Nature Preserve
Difficulty Rating:
3
Distance:
8 miles
Minimum Age:
16
Spaces Left:
Registration has closed.
More Information  

Wee Wonder Walks: In a Nutshell

Interpretive
Wee Wonder Walks: In a Nutshell

From a little tiny seed to a mighty tree, an acorn can grow up to be big and strong! Follow the life of an acorn as this tiny seed grows to become a mighty oak, and discover what adventures lay ahead for our tree friend. Enjoy making a fun harvest craft and walk along the trails under Bommer’s mighty oaks.

Reviewing the 1-through-5 Difficulty Ratings will help you evaluate your readiness to participate in this level-1 activity on the land.

Wee Wonder Walks: In a Nutshell
Date:
Thu, 12/10/2015
Time:
10:00 AM - 11:00 AM
Where:
Bommer Canyon Preserve
Difficulty Rating:
1
Distance:
0.5 miles
Minimum Age:
2
Family Friendly:
Yes
Spaces Left:
Registration has closed.
More Information  

Slow-Paced Fitness Hike on Paved Hicks Haul Road

Hiking & Fitness
Slow-Paced Fitness Hike on Paved Hicks Haul Road

Enjoy an evening fitness hike through stunning rock formations and fragrant native plants as you listen to the sounds of nature. This hike is done at your own pace as a walk, jog, or run (speed range typically 2.5 to 3.5 mph), so is suitable for beginners who are just starting their fitness program as well as more experienced hikers who are looking for a workout. This out-and-back program travels the 3.5 mile route to scenic Loma Ridge (450′ elevation gain) and back down, with most participants completing the route in about 1.5 hours. The hike is family-friendly, but children must be closely supervised by an adult and able to hike with the group, or be safely carried by a strong adult or secured in a jogging stroller. This activity originates in the City of Irvine and travels into OC Parks’ Limestone Canyon Nature Preserve.

Reviewing the 1-through-5 Difficulty Ratings will help you evaluate your readiness to participate in this level-3 activity on the land.

Slow-Paced Fitness Hike on Paved Hicks Haul Road
Date:
Thu, 12/10/2015
Time:
6:00 PM - 8:00 PM
Where:
Irvine Open Space Preserve
Difficulty Rating:
3
Distance:
3.5 miles
Minimum Age:
12
Family Friendly:
Yes
Spaces Left:
Registration has closed.
More Information  

Friday, December 11, 2015

Hoot’s There? Night Hike at Santiago Oaks

Interpretive
Hoot's There? Night Hike at Santiago Oaks

Come see Santiago Oaks Regional Park in a completely different setting – in the dark! Park rangers will lead a moonless night hike where you can listen for the sounds of the night and discover who visits the park after the sun has set.

Activities will include:
•A visit to the Nature Center.
•A short video presentation.
•A hike through the wilderness area.

This is an outdoor event. Please dress warmly, wear good walking shoes and bring a flashlight. Sorry, no dogs allowed on the hike.
The next night hike will take place at Peters Canyon Regional Park on Friday, January 8, 2016. Visit ocparks.com for more information.

Hoot's There? Night Hike at Santiago Oaks
Date:
Fri, 12/11/2015
Time:
5:30 PM - 7:30 PM
Where:
Santiago Oaks Regional Park
Difficulty Rating:
2
Minimum Age:
All Ages
Family Friendly:
Yes
Spaces Left:
Registration has closed.
More Information  

Caminata Nocturna en el Cañón de Black Star /Nocturnal Walk in Black Star Canyon

Interpretive
Caminata Nocturna en el Cañón de Black Star /Nocturnal Walk in Black Star Canyon

Come and enjoy an easy night hike through Black Star Canyon which is home to many nocturnal animals that forage at night, and are guided by the night sky. This program is appropriate for the whole family and will include various stops to discuss nocturnal wildlife and the night sky. This is not a paved trail, no strollers please. Evenings in the canyon are chilly please dress warm. This program will be presented in both English and in Spanish.

Camine por el cañón de Black Star que es un lugar especial para muchos animales nocturnos y que son guiados por el cielo nocturno. Este es un programa para toda la familia y incluye varias paradas para hablar sobre los animales nocturnos y el cielo nocturno. No hay acceso para carriolas. La noche en el canyon es fría, por favor prepárese. Presentación en ingles y español.

Reviewing the 1-through-5 Difficulty Ratings will help you evaluate your readiness to participate in this level-2 activity on the land.

Revisión de las clasificaciones 1 esta 5 de dificultad le ayudará a evaluar su disposición para participar en esta actividad de nivel 2 en el terreno.

Caminata Nocturna en el Cañón de Black Star /Nocturnal Walk in Black Star Canyon
Date:
Fri, 12/11/2015
Time:
6:00 PM - 8:00 PM
Where:
Black Star Canyon Wilderness Park
Difficulty Rating:
2
Distance:
2 miles
Minimum Age:
All Ages
Family Friendly:
Yes
Spaces Left:
Registration has closed.
More Information  

Saturday, December 12, 2015

FREEKS Ride: Clockwise

Mountain Biking
FREEKS Ride: Clockwise

Join us for a challenging docent-led mountain bike ride for very experienced off-road riders in excellent cardio shape. Climb challenging State Spur to Cathedral Rock, and then descend into Fremont Canyon while passing some of Orange County’s most spectacular geological formations. The ride continues out to Mini-Moab and then over to Sierra Peak, passing the Tecate Cypress forest, then past Sierra Peak, and over to the last descent down through historic Black Star Canyon.

Reviewing the 1-through-5 Difficulty Ratings will help you evaluate your readiness to participate in this level-5 activity on the land.

FREEKS Ride: Clockwise
Date:
Sat, 12/12/2015
Time:
7:30 AM - 12:00 PM
Where:
Fremont Canyon Nature Preserve
Difficulty Rating:
Variable
Distance:
25 miles
Minimum Age:
16
Spaces Left:
Registration has closed.
More Information  

Intro Cardio Fitness: Weir Canyon Rifle Range Loop

Hiking & Fitness
Intro Cardio Fitness: Weir Canyon Rifle Range Loop

Are the regular cardio hikes a little too fast for you? If so, join us  in beautiful Weir Canyon for this slower intro-to- cardio hike that incorporates a little more interpretation.  Along the trail, you’ll pass through coastal sage scrub, grasslands, and oak woodlands. Multiple steep climbs and descents are included during the 5 mile hike. Enjoy views of Saddleback Peak and the Cleveland National Forest along the way.

Reviewing the 1-through-5 Difficulty Ratings will help you evaluate your readiness to participate in this level-4 activity on the land.

Intro Cardio Fitness: Weir Canyon Rifle Range Loop
Date:
Sat, 12/12/2015
Time:
7:30 AM - 9:00 AM
Where:
Weir Canyon Nature Preserve
Difficulty Rating:
4
Distance:
5 miles
Minimum Age:
16
Spaces Left:
Registration has closed.
More Information  
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