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 3569 Events

Friday, July 13, 2018

Hike to East Sinks Viewing Deck: Limestone Canyon

Hiking & Fitness
Hike to East Sinks Viewing Deck:  Limestone Canyon

Come along with us on this fast-paced morning hike through beautiful Limestone Canyon Nature Preserve to the East Sinks Viewing Deck. You’ll be rewarded with a spectacular view of The Sinks as well as sweeping views of Orange County and the Santa Ana Mountains. This challenging hike involves steep climbs and descents on both double and single-track trails.

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

Hike to East Sinks Viewing Deck:  Limestone Canyon
Date:
Fri, 07/13/2018
Time:
7:00 AM - 11:00 AM
Where:
Limestone Canyon Nature Preserve
Difficulty Rating:
4
Distance:
10 miles
Minimum Age:
18
Spaces Left:
Registration has closed.
More Information  

Saturday, July 14, 2018

Buck Gully Loop Hike

Hiking & Fitness
Buck Gully Loop Hike

Come and explore the entire Buck Gully Reserve trail system. Beginning from the Oasis Senior Center, we’ll hike up through the almost 3-mile length of the canyon, then along San Joaquin Hills Road for a bit, stopping at Canyon Watch Park where we will take in the panoramic view of the reserve and the Pacific coastline before descending back into the canyon along the Bobcat Trail. Please bring water, a light trail snack, sturdy closed-toe shoes and supplies to keep you safe during the journey. Sunscreen and a hat are highly recommended. This activity is conducted at a walking pace, approximately 3 miles per hour.

PLEASE NOTE: Poison oak grows in abundance throughout the entire Buck Gully Reserve trail system.

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

Buck Gully Loop Hike
Date:
Sat, 07/14/2018
Time:
8:00 AM - 11:30 AM
Where:
Buck Gully Reserve
Difficulty Rating:
3
Distance:
6 miles
Minimum Age:
12
Spaces Left:
Registration has closed.
More Information  

Sunday, July 15, 2018

Double Loop: Baker Canyon

Hiking & Fitness
Double Loop: Baker Canyon

Come explore the Irvine Ranch Natural Landmarks in your backyard! This scenic hike involves steep climbs and descents on both double and singletrack trails and around 1100’ of accumulated climbing elevation. Though challenging, the hike rewards you with sweeping views of the Irvine Ranch Natural Landmarks and Santa Ana Mountains. On clear days you can see Catalina Island and even beyond Orange County into the Los Angeles Basin.

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

Double Loop: Baker Canyon
Date:
Sun, 07/15/2018
Time:
7:00 AM - 10:00 AM
Where:
Black Star Canyon Wilderness Park
Difficulty Rating:
4
Distance:
7 miles
Minimum Age:
16
Spaces Left:
Registration has closed.
More Information  

Monday, July 16, 2018

Early Morning Advanced Hike: Whiting Wilderness Park

Hiking & Fitness
Early Morning Advanced Hike: Whiting Wilderness Park
While Orange County Parks such as Peter’s, Santiago Oaks, and Irvine Regional, recover from the Canyon 2 fire, we are offering an alternative location to enjoy a refreshing early morning hike along some of the most scenic trails in Whiting Ranch Wilderness Park.  The landscape and animals in the recent fire need to rest; we can help by enjoying other wilderness areas that have recovered from the Santiago Fire of 2007. By joining us, you will learn that Whiting still has scars from the previous fire, but it has revived itself and adapted to offer hikers a chance to enjoy the wilderness.
This hike involves steep climbs and descents on a variety of trails, both double and single-track, and is done at an average moving pace of 3 mph over 6-8 miles and an elevation gain of 1100-1700 feet.   Though the hike is challenging, we are rewarded with beautiful canopied woodlands, sweeping views, and possible wildlife sightings.
Reviewing the 1-through-5 Difficulty Ratings will help you evaluate your readiness to participate in this level-4 activity on the land.
Early Morning Advanced Hike: Whiting Wilderness Park
Date:
Mon, 07/16/2018
Time:
7:30 AM - 10:30 AM
Where:
Whiting Ranch Wilderness Park
Difficulty Rating:
4
Distance:
9 miles
Minimum Age:
18
Spaces Left:
Registration has closed.
More Information  

Tai Chi in the Canyon

Hiking & Fitness
Tai Chi in the Canyon

Tai Chi is an ancient Chinese exercise renowned for the benefits of its slow, non-stressful physical exercises as well as its meditative qualities. Baker Canyon offers a natural setting as a perfect location for deep breathing of the fresh air, energizing our internal energy (Qi) and using it to root ourselves to the land. The class will perform gentle warm up exercises directly associated with many of the moves and we will then learn and practice the Yang style.

The first hour will be dedicated to beginning students learning the first set and the second hour focuses on the advanced students to study the 2nd and 3rd sets. All participants are welcome to either participate or observe both sessions as the gate will be closed for the 2 hour duration.

Tai Chi in the Canyon
Date:
Mon, 07/16/2018
Time:
9:00 AM - 11:00 AM
Where:
Black Star Canyon Wilderness Park
Difficulty Rating:
1
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, 07/16/2018
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, July 17, 2018

Bommer Canyon Train and Hike

Hiking & Fitness
Bommer Canyon Train and Hike

Skip the gym and join us outside for a total body and cardio workout while enjoying fresh air and panoramic views in beautiful serene Bommer Canyon. Instructor led training exercises will use a combination of body weight and resistance bands in an outdoor setting, followed by a 3 mile fast-paced hike. The hike has 700 feet of total climbing elevation to get your heart pumping. Several steep climbs in the first half of the hike will get participants to the rewarding panoramic views of Orange County and the Santa Ana Mountains.

Bommer Canyon Train and Hike
Date:
Tue, 07/17/2018
Time:
6:00 PM - 7:30 PM
Where:
Bommer Canyon Preserve
Difficulty Rating:
4
Distance:
3 miles
Minimum Age:
16
Spaces Left:
Registration has closed.
More Information  

Twilight Hike in Orchard Hills

Hiking & Fitness
Twilight Hike in Orchard Hills

Come enjoy a leisurely paced, 2-3 mph, hike in the Irvine Open Space. Get to know the nature around you as we explore Orchard Hills at that magic time just before and after sunset. We will walk around an avocado orchard that borders on the natural open space. Far-reaching views from the highest point reward your effort.

This Orchard Hills route is around 3 miles and includes several climbs. Please be prepared with water and closed toe sturdy shoes or boots, and all other necessary elements to keep you healthy on the trail.

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

Twilight Hike in Orchard Hills
Date:
Tue, 07/17/2018
Time:
6:15 PM - 8:15 PM
Where:
Orchard Hills
Difficulty Rating:
3
Distance:
3 miles
Minimum Age:
12
Spaces Left:
Registration has closed.
More Information  

Thursday, July 19, 2018

Fitness Hike – Dilley

Hiking & Fitness
Fitness Hike - Dilley

PLEASE NOTE: This is a Fitness Hike; pace is approximately a 19-minute mile. Please arrive 15 minutes early. Raise your heart rate and your spirits on this strenuous, fast-paced, 5.5-mile hike over steep and uneven terrain (900-ft. elevation gain) with Laguna Canyon Foundation volunteers. Ages 18 and up. Laguna Coast Wilderness Park, James Dilley Preserve (I-5 or 405 south to 133 south to stoplight at 73 toll road; and make a U-turn, go 1 block. Dilley is on the right.) Wear hiking shoes and sun protection and bring water.

Online reservations required: www.lagunacanyon.org/activities. For questions, call 949-497-8324 Mon-Fri or 949-923-2235 Sat/Sun. Parking: $3/vehicle.

Fitness Hike - Dilley
Date:
Thu, 07/19/2018
Time:
8:30 AM - 11:00 AM
Where:
Laguna Coast Wilderness Park
Difficulty Rating:
3
Minimum Age:
12
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:
Thu, 07/19/2018
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  

Saturday, July 21, 2018

Advanced Trail Run in Limestone

Hiking & Fitness
Advanced Trail Run in  Limestone

Join us for a strenuous, extremely challenging, fast-paced, early morning trail run in Limestone Canyon. Along the way we’ll be rewarded with panoramic views of Orange County and possible wildlife sightings. We will start running along a paved road to East Loma dirt trail then on to Box Springs and into Limestone Canyon. This approximately 8 mile run is completed an  1 hour and 45 minutes, includes a 1000+ foot elevation change. This hike and run is for experienced, physically fit run/hikers who enjoy the challenge of multiple steep climbs and descents.

There is one scheduled rest stop on this approximately  8  mile run and the averaging 11 minute per mile fast-paced and is extremely difficult over steep terrain in the wilderness setting.

 

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

Advanced Trail Run in  Limestone
Date:
Sat, 07/21/2018
Time:
6:30 AM - 8:15 AM
Where:
Limestone Canyon Nature Preserve
Difficulty Rating:
5
Distance:
8 miles
Minimum Age:
18
Spaces Left:
Full
More Information  

Monday, July 23, 2018

Tai Chi in the Canyon

Hiking & Fitness
Tai Chi in the Canyon

Tai Chi is an ancient Chinese exercise renowned for the benefits of its slow, non-stressful physical exercises as well as its meditative qualities. Baker Canyon offers a natural setting as a perfect location for deep breathing of the fresh air, energizing our internal energy (Qi) and using it to root ourselves to the land. The class will perform gentle warm up exercises directly associated with many of the moves and we will then learn and practice the Yang style.

The first hour will be dedicated to beginning students learning the first set and the second hour focuses on the advanced students to study the 2nd and 3rd sets. All participants are welcome to either participate or observe both sessions as the gate will be closed for the 2 hour duration.

Tai Chi in the Canyon
Date:
Mon, 07/23/2018
Time:
9:00 AM - 11:00 AM
Where:
Black Star Canyon Wilderness Park
Difficulty Rating:
1
Minimum Age:
16
Spaces Left:
Registration has closed.
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. 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!

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, 07/23/2018
Time:
6:00 PM - 7:30 PM
Where:
Limestone Canyon Nature Preserve
Difficulty Rating:
3
Distance:
3.5 miles
Minimum Age:
16
Family Friendly:
Yes
Spaces Left:
Registration has closed.
More Information  

CANCELLED: Meditative Yoga and Meadow Walk

Hiking & Fitness
CANCELLED: Meditative Yoga and Meadow Walk

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, under the canopy of sycamores. Our yoga practice will be gentle in nature, moving and flowing with ease.

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.

CANCELLED: Meditative Yoga and Meadow Walk
Date:
Mon, 07/23/2018
Time:
6:00 PM - 7:30 PM
Where:
Bommer Canyon Preserve
Difficulty Rating:
2
Distance:
1 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, 07/23/2018
Time:
6:30 PM - 8:30 PM
Where:
Orchard Hills
Difficulty Rating:
3
Distance:
3 miles
Minimum Age:
12
Spaces Left:
Full
More Information  

Tuesday, July 24, 2018

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 footing on the asphalt paved road is smoother than dirt roads and single track trails normally found in Limestone Regional Park, 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! 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, 07/24/2018
Time:
7:30 AM - 10:00 AM
Where:
Limestone Canyon Nature Preserve
Difficulty Rating:
3
Distance:
8 miles
Minimum Age:
16
Spaces Left:
Registration has closed.
More Information  

Evening Hike in the Canyons

Hiking & Fitness
Evening Hike in the Canyons

Come join us for some after work exercise on the Mesa Loop. The hike will cover close to 3 miles round trip at a moderate pace and will offer us beautiful panoramic views of the surrounding canyons. Also keep your eyes open for any animals starting their nightly routines. Please bring water and wear sturdy shoes. A flashlight with a red tinted light is not required but might be nice to have as it will be past sundown when we finish our hike.

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

Evening Hike in the Canyons
Date:
Tue, 07/24/2018
Time:
6:30 PM - 8:30 PM
Where:
Black Star Canyon Wilderness Park
Difficulty Rating:
2
Distance:
2.5 miles
Minimum Age:
12
Spaces Left:
Registration has closed.
More Information  

Wednesday, July 25, 2018

CANCELLED: Mid-Week Hike: Agua Chinon and The Sinks

Hiking & Fitness
CANCELLED: 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.

CANCELLED: Mid-Week Hike: Agua Chinon and The Sinks
Date:
Wed, 07/25/2018
Time:
7:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Where:
Irvine Open Space Preserve
Difficulty Rating:
4
Distance:
14 miles
Minimum Age:
18
Spaces Left:
Registration has closed.
More Information  

Thursday, July 26, 2018

CANCELLED: Thursday Morning Trek: Fremont Canyon

Hiking & Fitness
CANCELLED: Thursday Morning Trek: Fremont Canyon

This week in the 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.

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

CANCELLED: Thursday Morning Trek: Fremont Canyon
Date:
Thu, 07/26/2018
Time:
7:00 AM - 10:30 AM
Where:
Fremont Canyon Nature Preserve
Difficulty Rating:
4
Distance:
6 miles
Minimum Age:
12
Spaces Left:
Registration has closed.
More Information  

Fitness Hike – Little Sycamore

Hiking & Fitness
Fitness Hike - Little Sycamore

PLEASE NOTE: This is a Fitness Hike; pace is approximately a 19 minute mile. Please arrive 15 minutes early.

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 18 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). Wear hiking shoes and sun protection and bring water. Online reservations required: lagunacanyon.org/activities For questions, call 949-497-8324 Mon-Fri or 949-923-2235 Sat/Sun. Parking: $3/vehicle.

Fitness Hike - Little Sycamore
Date:
Thu, 07/26/2018
Time:
8:30 AM - 10:30 AM
Where:
Laguna Coast Wilderness Park
Difficulty Rating:
3
Minimum Age:
15
More Information  
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