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.

Updated Difficulty Ratings: The Hiking and Fitness Difficulty Ratings have been updated to reflect our current activities. Please click below to read the ratings.

Click here to learn more about IRC-Certified Volunteers.    •   Click here to learn more about the Difficulty Ratings.

Search & Filter Activities

Found 4 Events

Monday, November 25, 2024

Early Morning Hike: Gypsum Canyon Wilderness

Hiking & Fitness
Early Morning Hike: Gypsum Canyon Wilderness

Come explore the newly opened Gypsum Canyon Wilderness, the northernmost portion of OC Parks’ Irvine Ranch Open Space. This scenic hike involves steep climbs and descents on several single-track trails and is done at an average moving pace of 3 miles per hour. The rewards are many: panoramic views of Fremont and Weir Canyon Nature Preserves and beyond, possible wildlife sightings, interesting rock formations, and beautiful wildflowers in season.

Early Morning Hike: Gypsum Canyon Wilderness
Date:
Mon, 11/25/2024
Time:
7:00 am - 10:00 am
Where:
Gypsum Canyon Wilderness
Difficulty Rating:
4
Distance:
6.5 miles
Minimum Age:
18
Spaces Left:
8 of 20
More Information  

Friday, November 29, 2024

Turkey Burner Fitness Hike at Gypsum Canyon Wilderness

Hiking & Fitness
Turkey Burner Fitness Hike at Gypsum Canyon Wilderness

After indulging in a hearty feast, it’s time to kickstart your metabolism and get back on track in OC Parks’ Gypsum Canyon Wilderness with an invigorating 6.5-mile hike with approximately 1,000 feet of elevation gain that promises to challenge your senses and revive your spirits. Surround yourself with centuries-old oak trees along the way which provide a natural canopy and offer both a sense of awe as you pass beneath their branches. Prepare to be captivated by the mesmerizing rock formations that adorn the landscape. These geological wonders will inspire your inner geologist and provide fantastic photo opportunities.

This hike is designed to help you burn off those Thanksgiving calories while immersing yourself in the beauty of nature. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or new to the trail, the Turkey Burner Fitness Hike promises a rejuvenating experience that will leave you feeling refreshed and ready to take on the holiday season. Don’t miss out on this fantastic opportunity to connect with nature, stay active and create unforgettable memories. Lace up your hiking boots, gather your water and let’s conquer those post-Thanksgiving blues together on the Turkey Burner Fitness Hike!

Turkey Burner Fitness Hike at Gypsum Canyon Wilderness
Date:
Fri, 11/29/2024
Time:
8:00 am - 10:30 am
Where:
Gypsum Canyon Wilderness
Difficulty Rating:
4
Distance:
6.5 miles
Minimum Age:
18
Spaces Left:
17 of 30
More Information  

Tuesday, December 3, 2024

Early Morning Hike: Gypsum Canyon Wilderness

Hiking & Fitness
Early Morning Hike: Gypsum Canyon Wilderness

Come explore the newly opened Gypsum Canyon Wilderness, the northernmost portion of OC Parks’ Irvine Ranch Open Space. This scenic hike involves steep climbs and descents on several single-track trails and is done at an average moving pace of 3 miles per hour. The rewards are many: panoramic views of Fremont and Weir Canyon Nature Preserves and beyond, possible wildlife sightings, interesting rock formations, and beautiful wildflowers in season.

Early Morning Hike: Gypsum Canyon Wilderness
Date:
Tue, 12/03/2024
Time:
7:00 am - 10:00 am
Where:
Gypsum Canyon Wilderness
Difficulty Rating:
4
Distance:
6.5 miles
Minimum Age:
18
Spaces Left:
18 of 20
More Information  

Saturday, December 14, 2024

Wilderness Access Day: Gypsum Canyon Wilderness

Special Events
Wilderness Access Day: Gypsum Canyon Wilderness

Access is first come first served until parking capacity is reached. No registration required.

Equestrians, while space is not guaranteed we encourage you to please email irvineranchopenspace@ocparks.com to coordinate parking.

Come explore 6 miles of new trails at Gypsum Canyon Wilderness through this self-guided opportunity.

Located within OC Parks’ Irvine Ranch Open Space, Gypsum Canyon Wilderness features seven new trails for hiking, mountain biking and horseback riding. Two lookout points offer sweeping views of the surrounding canyons and unique prehistoric rock formations. Multiple loop options that vary in distance and range from easy to moderate in difficulty are available for self-guided exploration.

Gypsum Canyon Wilderness is comprised of protected and preserved native habitats that a variety of wildlife, including mule deer, red-tailed hawks, California gnatcatchers and bobcats, call home.

Rain or inclement weather will cancel the program.

Gypsum Canyon Wilderness is located at 390 South Gypsum Canyon Road, Anaheim, CA 92887.

Please review our Trail Tips page and FAQ page to prepare for your experience in the wilderness area.

Wilderness Access Day: Gypsum Canyon Wilderness
Date:
Sat, 12/14/2024
Time:
8:00 am - 2:00 pm
Where:
Gypsum Canyon Wilderness
Difficulty Rating:
Variable
Minimum Age:
All Ages
Family Friendly:
Yes
More Information