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 118 Events

Sunday, December 13, 2015

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:
Sun, 12/13/2015
Time:
3:30 PM - 6:00 PM
Where:
Orchard Hills
Difficulty Rating:
3
Distance:
3 miles
Minimum Age:
12
Spaces Left:
Registration has closed.
More Information  

Cancelled: Geminid Meteor Shower – Viewing Only

Interpretive
Cancelled: Geminid Meteor Shower - Viewing Only

Gear up for this amazing star gazing night as we capture this season’s meteor shower! Our evening begins by stretching out under the stars to capture one of this season’s spectacular outer galactic shows! We will view the different stars, constellations and tell stories of astronomy folklore as we watch for meteors crossing the night sky. Please dress in many warm layers as the evening is cool against the canyon. Also, you are welcome to bring your own blankets and chairs to sit and enjoy the show. This program will not include a hike.

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

Cancelled: Geminid Meteor Shower - Viewing Only
Date:
Sun, 12/13/2015
Time:
7:00 PM - 9:00 PM
Where:
Limestone Canyon Nature Preserve
Difficulty Rating:
1
Minimum Age:
12
Family Friendly:
Yes
Spaces Left:
Registration has closed.
More Information  

Monday, December 14, 2015

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, 12/14/2015
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, 12/14/2015
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 15, 2015

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, 12/15/2015
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 16, 2015

Mid Week Hike: Orchard Hills

Hiking & Fitness
Mid Week Hike: Orchard Hills

Recharge your batteries with a refreshing mid-week hike through Orchard Hills and Loma Ridge. We’ll hike around an avocado grove on the edge of the open space preserve and up to Loma Ridge, providing spectacular views of all of Orange County.

This hike involves multiple steep climbs and descents, including 2600+ 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. Hiking distance is 10-12 miles.

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: Orchard Hills
Date:
Wed, 12/16/2015
Time:
8:00 AM - 1:00 PM
Where:
Orchard Hills
Difficulty Rating:
4
Distance:
10 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, 12/16/2015
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, 12/16/2015
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, 12/16/2015
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 17, 2015

Morning Nature Hike: Bommer Canyon

Hiking & Fitness
Morning Nature Hike: Bommer Canyon

This week in the Irvine Open Space, we’ll be in Bommer Canyon, once part of the historic Irvine cattle ranch where corrals and ranch equipment still stand. The hike is a seven-mile loop with some climbing, but rewards you with fantastic views overlooking the ocean and many Irvine locales. Please bring water, a trail snack, sunscreen, hat and any other necessary equipment to keep you safe on the trail.   Get your boots out and register to hike the loop through the Laguna Coast Wilderness and back to Cattle Camp.

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

Morning Nature Hike: Bommer Canyon
Date:
Thu, 12/17/2015
Time:
8:00 AM - 11:30 AM
Where:
Bommer Canyon Preserve
Difficulty Rating:
3
Distance:
7 miles
Minimum Age:
12
Spaces Left:
Registration has closed.
More Information  

Fitness Hike at Little Sycamore

Hiking & Fitness
Hiking & Fitness

Led by Laguna Canyon Foundation volunteers in partnership with OC Parks. Raise your heart rate and your spirits on this difficult, strenuous and fast-paced, 4.8-mile hike (400-ft. elevation gain) over very steep, uneven terrain with Laguna Canyon Foundation volunteers. Ages 15 and up. Laguna Coast Wilderness Park, Little Sycamore Canyon Staging Area/Nix Nature Center (west side of Laguna Canyon Road/SR-133, approximately 3.5 miles south of I-5/405). Online reservations required: www.lagunacanyon.org/activities.html. For questions call: 949-497-8324. Parking: $3.

Fitness Hike at Little Sycamore
Date:
Thu, 12/17/2015
Time:
8:30 AM - 10:30 AM
Where:
Laguna Coast Wilderness Park
Difficulty Rating:
3
Minimum Age:
15
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, 12/17/2015
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 18, 2015

Be a Friend To the Cactus Wren

Stewardship
Be a Friend To the Cactus Wren

The cactus wren need healthy habitat to thrive. Simple things like planting and seeding native plants can greatly improve habitat for this threatened bird and other wildlife. You can be part of this positive impact while enjoying the scenery along Mule Deer Trail in Irvine. 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. Note that this activity is held on the 3rd Friday 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.

 

 

 

Be a Friend To the Cactus Wren
Date:
Fri, 12/18/2015
Time:
8:30 AM - 12:00 PM
Where:
Irvine Open Space Preserve
Difficulty Rating:
3
Distance:
0 miles
Minimum Age:
14
Spaces Left:
Registration has closed.
More Information  

Canyon Explorers: Migrate, Hibernate or Stay Awake

Interpretive
Canyon Explorers: Migrate, Hibernate or Stay Awake

As winter approaches, many animals begin their distance travels to warmer lands, fall asleep to avoid the cold, or gain a thicker coat to stay warm. Discover which animals migrate, hibernate or stay awake during our night hike through Bommer Canyon.

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

Canyon Explorers: Migrate, Hibernate or Stay Awake
Date:
Fri, 12/18/2015
Time:
7:00 PM - 8:30 PM
Where:
Bommer Canyon Preserve
Difficulty Rating:
2
Distance:
1.5 miles
Minimum Age:
6
Family Friendly:
Yes
Spaces Left:
Registration has closed.
More Information  

Saturday, December 19, 2015

CANCELLED: Mountain Bike Ride in Bommer Canyon

Mountain Biking
CANCELLED: Mountain Bike Ride in Bommer Canyon

Join us for a docent-led mountain bike ride through the Irvine Open Space Preserve. This moderate-paced mountain bike tour through the picturesque hills of Bommer and Shady Canyons includes a combination of ranch roads and multiple intermediate and advanced level technical single-track trails, with many steep climbs and descents. Over 2700 feet of accumulated climbing elevation is experienced on this route.

Please note, this program is an intermediate-to-advanced ride featuring only a few short rest stops, steep climbs and rocky descents. It requires above average fitness and mountain biking skills, and a mountain bike with a minimum of front suspension.

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

CANCELLED: Mountain Bike Ride in Bommer Canyon
Date:
Sat, 12/19/2015
Time:
8:00 AM - 11:00 AM
Where:
Bommer Canyon Preserve
Difficulty Rating:
5
Distance:
13 miles
Minimum Age:
18
Spaces Left:
Registration has closed.
More Information  

Keep It Wild Volunteer Day

Stewardship
Stewardship

Led by Laguna Canyon Foundation in partnership with OC Parks. Come on out and help restore the wild lands we so enjoy! There’s no better way to start a Saturday morning than by joining Laguna Canyon Foundation and OC Parks staff in an invigorating project of non-native plant removal and/or planting native plants. This October event will involve restoring trails that can be steep in places. Help us make a healthier environment for the native wildlife and for ourselves. Little Sycamore Canyon Staging Area/Nix Nature Center (west side of Laguna Canyon Rd/SR-133, approximately 3.5 miles south of I-5/405). Online reservations required: www.lagunacanyon.org/activities.html. For questions call: 949-497-8324. Parking: Free for Keep It Wild Volunteers!

Keep It Wild Volunteer Day
Date:
Sat, 12/19/2015
Time:
8:00 AM - 11:00 AM
Where:
Laguna Coast Wilderness Park
Difficulty Rating:
2
Minimum Age:
16
More Information  

3rd Saturday Trail Restoration Day

Trail Work
Trail Work

Would you like to give back to Santiago Oaks and have fun at the same time?

Work alongside park staff in restoring the trails at “The Oaks”. Projects will include trail work or natural habitat restoration throughout our 20+ mile trail system. Past projects have included trail brushing, restoring eroded trails, removing invasive weeds and planting native plants. Projects change each month providing diverse experiences to participants.

Please be prepared for strenuous work that may include up to a 3-mile hike to the work location. Please bring snacks and water.
We will provide gloves, tools and training.

3rd Saturday Trail Restoration Day
Date:
Sat, 12/19/2015
Time:
9:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Where:
Santiago Oaks Regional Park
Difficulty Rating:
Variable
Minimum Age:
14
Spaces Left:
Registration has closed.
More Information  

Family Hike at Crystal Cove State Park

Interpretive
Interpretive

Summer is a wonderful time to learn about our local nature.  Join a park naturalist on a family hike at Crystal Cove State Park to learn about the plants and animals living in the park on Saturday, December 19 at 9 a.m. Meet at the Berns Amphitheater (PCH inland at stoplight School-State Park, follow signs towards the campground.)

$15 day-use fee. See additional Family Hike programs in November here.

Family Hike at Crystal Cove State Park
Date:
Sat, 12/19/2015
Time:
9:00 AM - 11:00 AM
Where:
Crystal Cove State Park
Difficulty Rating:
1
Minimum Age:
12
Family Friendly:
Yes
More Information  

Marine Protected Area (MPA) Hike

Hiking & Fitness
Hiking & Fitness

Join the Office of Natural Resources at the City of Newport Beach on a moderate 1.3 mile low-tide hike through Newport Beach’s Crystal Cove State Marine Conservation Area.  Be sure to wear close-toed shoes and sunscreen, and be prepared to get a little wet!  Hikes are depended on weather and surf conditions and participants must be 13 years and older.  For any questions, please contact: marineeducation@newportbeachca.gov.

Marine Protected Area (MPA) Hike
Date:
Sat, 12/19/2015
Time:
9:30 AM - 11:30 AM
Where:
Difficulty Rating:
2
Minimum Age:
13
More Information  

Dripping Springs Trail Restoration

Stewardship
Dripping Springs Trail Restoration

Please join IRC staff as we convert Dripping Springs ranch road into a single track trail! For this event we will be weeding invasive plants and planting native plants along the new trail sides. Your effort will help to create a beautiful clear path for people as well as important habitat for wildlife. Spend the day working through grassland, coastal sage scrub, and woodland habitats and then hike to Dripping Springs, a natural water source dripping out of an earthquake fault and then down a gorgeous fern-covered rock face. This unique feature supports many rare plants and animals in the area. No previous experience is needed; however we will be hiking approximately 2.5 miles with heavy tools. Thank you for your continued support of the Irvine Ranch Natural Landmarks!

Please review the Difficulty Ratings before registering. Understanding the 1-through-5 ratings system will help you evaluate your readiness to participate in this level-3 activity on the land.

Dripping Springs Trail Restoration
Date:
Sat, 12/19/2015
Time:
10:00 AM - 1:30 PM
Where:
Limestone Canyon Nature Preserve
Difficulty Rating:
3
Distance:
3.5 miles
Minimum Age:
13
Family Friendly:
Yes
Spaces Left:
Registration has closed.
More Information  
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