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.
| 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
Saturday, April 21, 2018
Nighttime Bugs: Augustine Staging Area
Join us for this evening program as we explore biodiversity at the local level with that most diverse group of organisms, the insects! Taking advantage of the fact that UV light is highly visible to most insects, we will attract them by using black-lights (low energy/low frequency UV lights). We can then examine them up close, record the different types (and their numbers). Don’t forget your camera as you’ll see creatures that are normally buzzing around, but not highly visible. You will be able to help us document what we find.
Note: No hiking is involved with this program. We will remain in the staging area.
- Date:
- Sat, 04/21/2018
- Time:
- 7:30 PM - 10:00 PM
- Where:
- Limestone Canyon Nature Preserve
- Difficulty Rating:
- 1
- Minimum Age:
- 7
- Spaces Left:
- Full
Monday, April 23, 2018
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
- Date:
- Mon, 04/23/2018
- Time:
- 6:30 PM - 8:30 PM
- Where:
- Orchard Hills
- Difficulty Rating:
- 3
- Distance:
- 3 miles
- Minimum Age:
- 12
- Spaces Left:
- Registration has closed.
Tuesday, April 24, 2018
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 dark out 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.
- Date:
- Tue, 04/24/2018
- 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.
Thursday, April 26, 2018
Shhh…Hike, Look and Listen
Come end your day with a quiet walk through the calming canyons on the Irvine Ranch Natural Landmarks. We will watch for soaring red-tailed hawks, listen to birds quietly sing, and inhale the fragrance of fresh sage. Shed away the day’s repetitions and join us as we take a “slow walk” into Baker Canyon, mindful of all that is happening around us. Don’t forget to bring a flashlight and be prepared for the canyon’s cooler evening temperatures by wearing warm layers. Take in the tranquil evening as we quietly walk along the trails.
Reviewing the 1-through-5 Difficulty Ratings will help you evaluate your readiness to participate in this level-2 activity on the land.
- Date:
- Thu, 04/26/2018
- Time:
- 5:00 PM - 7:00 PM
- Where:
- Black Star Canyon Wilderness Park
- Difficulty Rating:
- 2
- Distance:
- 2 miles
- Minimum Age:
- 18
- Family Friendly:
- Yes
- Spaces Left:
- Registration has closed.
Fitness Hike in Bommer Canyon
From the beautiful oak tree lined trail to the expansive hilltop views, this is an enjoyable, fast-paced evening fitness hike in scenic Bommer Canyon. This hike is a little over 3 miles with 700 feet of elevation gain in the first half. Participants must be able to hike 3+ miles per hour with little need to rest. Hiking boots are not required, but sturdy non-slip closed toe shoes are a must. Please bring a pack, water, and any other necessities to keep you safe 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.
- Date:
- Thu, 04/26/2018
- Time:
- 6:00 PM - 7:30 PM
- Where:
- Bommer Canyon Preserve
- Difficulty Rating:
- 3
- Distance:
- 3 miles
- Minimum Age:
- 14
- Spaces Left:
- Registration has closed.
Monday, April 30, 2018
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
- Date:
- Mon, 04/30/2018
- Time:
- 6:30 PM - 8:30 PM
- Where:
- Orchard Hills
- Difficulty Rating:
- 3
- Distance:
- 3 miles
- Minimum Age:
- 12
- Spaces Left:
- Registration has closed.
Thursday, May 3, 2018
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
- Date:
- Thu, 05/03/2018
- Time:
- 6:30 PM - 8:30 PM
- Where:
- Orchard Hills
- Difficulty Rating:
- 3
- Distance:
- 3 miles
- Minimum Age:
- 12
- Spaces Left:
- Registration has closed.
Monday, May 7, 2018
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
- Date:
- Mon, 05/07/2018
- Time:
- 6:30 PM - 8:30 PM
- Where:
- Orchard Hills
- Difficulty Rating:
- 3
- Distance:
- 3 miles
- Minimum Age:
- 12
- Spaces Left:
- Registration has closed.
Tuesday, May 8, 2018
Fitness Hike in Bommer Canyon
From the beautiful oak tree lined trail to the expansive hilltop views, this is an enjoyable, fast-paced evening fitness hike in scenic Bommer Canyon. This hike is a little over 3 miles with 700 feet of elevation gain in the first half. Participants must be able to hike 3+ miles per hour with little need to rest. Hiking boots are not required, but sturdy non-slip closed toe shoes are a must. Please bring a pack, water, and any other necessities to keep you safe 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.
- Date:
- Tue, 05/08/2018
- Time:
- 6:00 PM - 7:30 PM
- Where:
- Bommer Canyon Preserve
- Difficulty Rating:
- 3
- Distance:
- 3 miles
- Minimum Age:
- 14
- Spaces Left:
- Registration has closed.
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 dark out 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.
- Date:
- Tue, 05/08/2018
- 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.
Thursday, May 10, 2018
Intermediate Evening Mountain Bike Ride
Explore Limestone Canyon by night on this intermediate mountain bike night ride. We will ride out of Augustine, up Loma Ridge, down to The Sinks, and along Limestone Ridge or Limestone Valley, depending on the group. Please plan for a distance between 10-12 miles. Please arrive early as it will get dark quickly.
Trails include natural hazards such as sand, tree roots, exposed rocks, and ruts. Expect several steep climbs on this 12-mile ride with an elevation gain of 2,600 feet. This night ride is for experienced adult riders. Lights required. Electric Mountain Bikes of any class or type are not permitted.
Reviewing the 1-through-5 Difficulty Ratings will help you evaluate your readiness to participate in this level-4 activity on the land.
- Date:
- Thu, 05/10/2018
- Time:
- 6:00 PM - 9:00 PM
- Where:
- Limestone Canyon Nature Preserve
- Difficulty Rating:
- 4
- Distance:
- 14 miles
- Minimum Age:
- 18
- Spaces Left:
- Registration has closed.
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
- Date:
- Thu, 05/10/2018
- Time:
- 6:30 PM - 8:30 PM
- Where:
- Orchard Hills
- Difficulty Rating:
- 3
- Distance:
- 3 miles
- Minimum Age:
- 12
- Spaces Left:
- Registration has closed.
Saturday, May 12, 2018
Family Hike: Round Canyon
Enjoy nature with friends and family in Round Canyon. We hike along a fairly flat trail as we watch for red-tailed hawks and mule deer. This activity originates in the City of Irvine and travels into OC Parks’ Limestone Canyon Nature Preserve. The hike averages 2-3 miles round trip at an easy pace with a medium level of interpretation. This program is for participants who would like a slower-paced and level hike.
Wear comfortable clothes and sturdy shoes, and bring water for the hike. Be ready to enjoy the sounds and smells of the early evening.
Reviewing the 1-through-5 Difficulty Ratings will help you evaluate your readiness to participate in this level-2 activity on the land.
- Date:
- Sat, 05/12/2018
- Time:
- 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM
- Where:
- Limestone Canyon Nature Preserve
- Difficulty Rating:
- 2
- Distance:
- 2.5 miles
- Minimum Age:
- 6
- Family Friendly:
- Yes
- Spaces Left:
- Registration has closed.
Nighttime Bugs: Augustine Staging Area
Join us for this evening program as we explore biodiversity at the local level with that most diverse group of organisms, the insects! Taking advantage of the fact that UV light is highly visible to most insects, we will attract them by using black-lights (low energy/low frequency UV lights). We can then examine them up close, record the different types (and their numbers). Don’t forget your camera as you’ll see creatures that are normally buzzing around, but not highly visible. You will be able to help us document what we find.
Note: No hiking is involved with this program. We will remain in the staging area.
- Date:
- Sat, 05/12/2018
- Time:
- 8:00 PM - 10:30 PM
- Where:
- Limestone Canyon Nature Preserve
- Difficulty Rating:
- 1
- Minimum Age:
- 7
- Spaces Left:
- Registration has closed.
Monday, May 14, 2018
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
- Date:
- Mon, 05/14/2018
- Time:
- 6:30 PM - 8:30 PM
- Where:
- Orchard Hills
- Difficulty Rating:
- 3
- Distance:
- 3 miles
- Minimum Age:
- 12
- Spaces Left:
- Registration has closed.
Thursday, May 17, 2018
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
- Date:
- Thu, 05/17/2018
- Time:
- 6:30 PM - 8:30 PM
- Where:
- Orchard Hills
- Difficulty Rating:
- 3
- Distance:
- 3 miles
- Minimum Age:
- 12
- Spaces Left:
- Registration has closed.
Saturday, May 19, 2018
Family Hike: Black Star Canyon
Enjoy an early evening family hike in Black Star Canyon, part of the Irvine Ranch Natural Landmarks. We will hike along a flat trail and cross a creek as we watch for red-tailed hawks and mule deer. The hike will average 3-4 miles round trip at an easy pace with a medium level of interpretation.
This program is for participants who would enjoy a slower-paced and level hike. Wear comfortable clothes and sturdy shoes, and bring water for the hike. Be ready to enjoy the sounds and smells of early evening.
Reviewing the 1-through-5 Difficulty Ratings will help you evaluate your readiness to participate in this level-2 activity on the land.
- Date:
- Sat, 05/19/2018
- Time:
- 5:30 PM - 8:30 PM
- Where:
- Black Star Canyon Wilderness Park
- Difficulty Rating:
- 2
- Distance:
- 3.5 miles
- Minimum Age:
- 8
- Family Friendly:
- Yes
- Spaces Left:
- Registration has closed.
Bats: Heroes of the Night
As the day starts to settle into night, bats awaken, stir and streak into the evening sky. Come hear fascinating tales of our flying mammal. We will head out towards a popular roosting location as we watch our nighttime heroes begin their nightly adventures. This program is ideal to visually observe the bats in flight, though bat detectors are available to listen for their high-frequency calls.
Be prepared to walk about 1/2 a mile. Dress warmly as it may be a chilly evening. A camping chair is welcome as we will enjoy an extended period of time watching the bats fly about the night.
- Date:
- Sat, 05/19/2018
- Time:
- 7:00 PM - 9:00 PM
- Where:
- Limestone Canyon Nature Preserve
- Difficulty Rating:
- 1
- Minimum Age:
- 6
- Family Friendly:
- Yes
- Spaces Left:
- Full
Monday, May 21, 2018
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
- Date:
- Mon, 05/21/2018
- Time:
- 6:30 PM - 8:30 PM
- Where:
- Orchard Hills
- Difficulty Rating:
- 3
- Distance:
- 3 miles
- Minimum Age:
- 12
- Spaces Left:
- Registration has closed.
Tuesday, May 22, 2018
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 dark out 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.
- Date:
- Tue, 05/22/2018
- 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.
