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 11438 Events

Tuesday, November 21, 2023

Toddler Treks: Harvest Happenings

Interpretive
Toddler Treks: Harvest Happenings

As the season changes from summer to winter, autumn animals find plenty of harvest to feast upon. Discover nature’s bounty that benefit many animals and humans throughout history! Hear a harvest tale and a fun acorn craft.

This fun program is geared for ages 2 – 6 years. Space is limited; parents/guardians must register themselves and each child. Program is free though there is a Park Entrance Fee per entry vehicle. For questions, please contact Resource Specialist, Kelley.Brugmann@ocparks.com at 714-973-6625.

Please note the program may take place to the left of the nature center in front of the stage at the Deer Den picnic tables. Inclement weather may move the program indoors or will cancel.

Toddler Treks: Harvest Happenings
Date:
Tue, 11/21/2023
Time:
10:00 am - 11:00 am
Where:
Irvine Regional Park
Difficulty Rating:
1
Minimum Age:
2
Family Friendly:
Yes
Spaces Left:
Registration has closed.
More Information  

Trail Assessment: Buck Gully

Trail Work
Trail Assessment: Buck Gully

Trail Assessment requested by City of Newport Beach

Trail Assessment: Buck Gully
Date:
Tue, 11/21/2023
Time:
11:30 am - 1:00 pm
Where:
Buck Gully Reserve
Difficulty Rating:
3
Distance:
5.5 miles
Minimum Age:
18
More Information  

Wednesday, November 22, 2023

Distance Hike to Mini Moab: Fremont Canyon

Hiking & Fitness
Distance Hike to Mini Moab: Fremont Canyon

Come along with us on this epic hike from the bottom of Fremont Canyon to the bold, sandstone outcrops marking the ridgeline locally known as “Mini Moab.” This extremely challenging out-and-back hike is for experienced, physically fit distance hikers. We climb steeply along ranch roads past an abandoned coal mine, the Fremont Weather Station, remnants of a rare stand of Tecate cypress, and Lizard Rock. Less than a mile after entering the Coal Canyon Ecological Reserve, we reach our destination. The view from Mini Moab is nothing short of spectacular! After a break for snacks and to enjoy the view, we’ll retrace our steps back to the Fremont Staging Area.

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

Distance Hike to Mini Moab: Fremont Canyon
Date:
Wed, 11/22/2023
Time:
7:30 am - 2:30 pm
Where:
Fremont Canyon Nature Preserve
Difficulty Rating:
5
Distance:
14 miles
Minimum Age:
18
Spaces Left:
Full
More Information  

Plants Among Us: Learning About Plants at Gypsum Canyon Wilderness

Interpretive
Plants Among Us: Learning About Plants at Gypsum Canyon Wilderness

Curious to learn about the plants among us?  Join us for a hike at Gypsum Canyon Wilderness where we’ll look at local flora, talk about native and non-native species, and learn how different plants impact our ecosystems. Learning to identify plants, both native and non-native, is a great way to cultivate a relationship to our local wildlands.

This hike will take us up a portion of Gypsum Canyon Road or Oven Canyon Road. This activity is geared toward participants curious about our local plants and ecosystem. Please bring water, closed-toe shoes and all items needed to keep you safe during our walk. Hats and sunscreen are highly recommended.

Reviewing the 1-through-5 Difficulty Ratings will help you evaluate your readiness to participate in this level 3 activity on the land. Please visit our FAQ page for answers to activity specific questions you may have prior to registering.

Plants Among Us: Learning About Plants at Gypsum Canyon Wilderness
Date:
Wed, 11/22/2023
Time:
9:00 am - 11:30 am
Where:
Gypsum Canyon Wilderness
Difficulty Rating:
3
Distance:
Variable
Minimum Age:
8
Spaces Left:
Registration has closed.
More Information  

Autumn Afternoon Yoga Hike at Orchard Hills

Hiking & Fitness
Autumn Afternoon Yoga Hike at Orchard Hills

Join us for an Autumn afternoon event that includes a short two mile hike to warm up your legs before experiencing a gentle flow yoga practice in nature. The trail leads us along an avocado orchard on the edge of the open space preserve with beautiful views of Irvine. The yoga is suitable for those with little or no experience, slower in pace and gentle in practice. Our focus on breath calms the nervous system and has positive effects on mental, emotional and physical health. If you have never done a yoga hike before you will be surprised how connected you feel to nature. Please bring water, a yoga mat plus a large beach towel and wear shoes appropriate for hiking.

Reviewing the 1-through-5 Difficulty Ratings will help you evaluate your readiness to participate in this level 2 activity on the land. Please visit our FAQ page for answers to activity specific questions you may have prior to registering.

Autumn Afternoon Yoga Hike at Orchard Hills
Date:
Wed, 11/22/2023
Time:
2:00 pm - 4:00 pm
Where:
Orchard Hills
Difficulty Rating:
2
Distance:
2 miles
Minimum Age:
18
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 Wednesday night in OCParks’ Irvine Ranch Open Space 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 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. Please visit our FAQ page for answers to activity specific questions you may have prior to registering.

After Work Fitness Hike on Paved Hicks Haul Road
Date:
Wed, 11/22/2023
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  

Friday, November 24, 2023

Turkey Burner Fitness Hike in Gypsum Canyon Wilderness

Hiking & Fitness
Turkey Burner Fitness Hike in 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!

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

Turkey Burner Fitness Hike in Gypsum Canyon Wilderness
Date:
Fri, 11/24/2023
Time:
8:00 am - 10:00 am
Where:
Gypsum Canyon Wilderness
Difficulty Rating:
4
Distance:
6.5 miles
Minimum Age:
18
Spaces Left:
Registration has closed.
More Information  

CANCELLED: Wild Tales

Interpretive
CANCELLED: Wild Tales

Join OC Parks staff for Wild Tales, offered every Friday. Each session will include a kid friendly hike, story time and craft project.

Activities are designed for ages 2-4 but all are welcome.

All minors under 16 must be accompanied by a guardian at all times.

Being that our easy hikes are on dirt trails, wearing clothes and shoes fit for such trail conditions are recommended.

Rain or heat advisory will cancel the event.

CANCELLED: Wild Tales
Date:
Fri, 11/24/2023
Time:
10:00 am - 10:45 am
Where:
Upper Newport Bay
Difficulty Rating:
1
Minimum Age:
All Ages
Family Friendly:
Yes
Spaces Left:
Registration has closed.
More Information  

Afternoon Hike at Gypsum Canyon Wilderness

Interpretive
Interpretive

Explore Gypsum Canyon Wilderness and hike OC Parks’ newest trails!

Learn about native plants and animals that can be found in the area and take in remarkable views of Gypsum Canyon. This moderate hike on unpaved dirt trails is approximately four miles round trip with 600 feet of elevation gain. We’ll cover many topics including birding, history, geology and native plants while taking breaks to enjoy the views.

Participants should come prepared with water, snacks, sun protection and sturdy walking shoes. Rain or adverse weather conditions will cancel the program. Minors must be accompanied by a parent or guardian at all times.

Advance registration required.

Afternoon Hike at Gypsum Canyon Wilderness
Date:
Fri, 11/24/2023
Time:
1:00 pm - 3:30 pm
Where:
Gypsum Canyon Wilderness
Difficulty Rating:
2
Minimum Age:
12
Spaces Left:
Registration has closed.
More Information  

Saturday, November 25, 2023

Advanced Cardio Hike: Limestone

Hiking & Fitness
Advanced Cardio Hike: Limestone

Join us for a strenuous, extremely challenging, fast-paced, early morning cardio hike in Limestone Canyon, part of OCParks’ Irvine Ranch Open Space. Along the way we’ll be rewarded with panoramic views of Orange County and possible wildlife sightings.  This is an 8 mile cardio hike, completed in 2.5+ hours, includes a 1000+ foot elevation change. This hike is for experienced, physically fit hikers who enjoy the challenge of multiple steep climbs and descents. This hike is much faster than a regular walking hike. We average four (4) miles per hour 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. Please visit our FAQ page for answers to activity specific questions you may have prior to registering.

Advanced Cardio Hike: Limestone
Date:
Sat, 11/25/2023
Time:
6:30 am - 9:00 am
Where:
Limestone Canyon Nature Preserve
Difficulty Rating:
5
Distance:
8 miles
Minimum Age:
18
Spaces Left:
Registration has closed.
More Information  

Keep It Wild – Native Plant Nursery

Stewardship
Keep It Wild - Native Plant Nursery

Join Laguna Canyon Foundation volunteers in beautiful Laguna Coast Wilderness Park at our native plant nursery as we care for native plants from their seed stage to their mature, ready-to-be planted stage. Volunteers may collect seeds, sow seeds in flats, bump plants up, plant at restoration sites, sterilize plant containers, and help maintain the nursery. Gain hands-on experience with habitat restoration while working alongside other zany and interesting plant lovers! Wear closed-toed shoes, layered clothing and sun protection. Bring water. Laguna Coast Wilderness Park, Willow Canyon Staging Area (west side of Laguna Canyon Rd/SR-133, just south of El Toro Road). You must arrive by 8 am. Park and walk up the gravel trail 100 yards to get to the small native plant nursery, just before the trailers. Ages 16 and up. Ages 16 and 17 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian. Online reservations required: lagunacanyon.org/events. Please register here. For questions, call 949-497-8324 Mon-Fri or 949-923-2235 Sat/Sun. Free parking passes will be provided for volunteers at the nursery.

Keep It Wild - Native Plant Nursery
Date:
Sat, 11/25/2023
Time:
8:00 am - 11:00 am
Where:
Laguna Coast Wilderness Park
Difficulty Rating:
1
Minimum Age:
16
More Information  

Wilderness Access Day: Gypsum Canyon Wilderness

Hiking & Fitness
Hiking & Fitness

Come explore OC Parks’ newest trails at Gypsum Canyon Wilderness through this self-guided opportunity.

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

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. Visitors will have the opportunity to provide voluntary feedback about Gypsum Canyon Wilderness through on-site participation surveys and offer naming suggestions for several unnamed trails.

Advance registration is required.

 

Wilderness Access Day: Gypsum Canyon Wilderness
Date:
Sat, 11/25/2023
Time:
8:00 am - 2:00 pm
Where:
Gypsum Canyon Wilderness
Difficulty Rating:
Variable
Minimum Age:
All Ages
Family Friendly:
Yes
Spaces Left:
Registration has closed.
More Information  

Photo Journey Limestone Canyon: The Sinks, Loma Ridge Backcountry and Sunset

Interpretive
Photo Journey Limestone Canyon: The Sinks, Loma Ridge Backcountry and Sunset

Join us in the back-country wilderness for a journey filled with beautiful sights that are photographic and artistic sketching opportunities. Our journey begins in the afternoon. We will be deep in a secluded canyon, where time is measured in centuries, even millennia, in the sandstone cliffs of this ancient place called Limestone Canyon.
You will board a 4-wheel drive vehicle for a 13-mile tour of the canyon and hills surrounding it. We will stop frequently for 15-30 minutes to admire the views, take photos, sketch landscapes, and answer questions. Stops will include short walks with views of The Sinks, a trip up Cactus and Markel Spur, with optional, single track, one-mile hike into Box Springs or a 1.5 mile Markel Spur to East Sinks loop hike. Both the Box Springs and Markel Spur hikes provide the visitor a true back-country experience. An alternative, but similar, hiking trail may be used.

Reviewing the 1-through-5 Difficulty Ratings will help you evaluate your readiness to participate in this level-2 activity on the land. Please visit our FAQ page for answers to activity specific questions you may have prior to registering.

Photo Journey Limestone Canyon: The Sinks, Loma Ridge Backcountry and Sunset
Date:
Sat, 11/25/2023
Time:
1:00 pm - 5:00 pm
Where:
Limestone Canyon Nature Preserve
Difficulty Rating:
2
Distance:
16 miles
Minimum Age:
16
Spaces Left:
Registration has closed.
More Information  

Bommer Canyon Preserve Almost Full Moon Hike

Hiking & Fitness
Bommer Canyon Preserve Almost Full Moon Hike

Experience the serenity of Bommer Canyon Preserve under an almost full moon during this moderate-paced hike in the Irvine Open Space Preserve. We’ll experience mature coastal sage scrub and fantastic sunset views overlooking the city of Irvine and the hillsides to the north. This hike is just over 3 miles and includes 700 feet of total climbing elevation with several very steep inclines. The steepest section ascends 300 feet in a quarter-mile. Participants must be in good physical condition.

Reviewing the 1-through-5 Difficulty Ratings will help you evaluate your readiness to participate in this level 3 activity on the land. Please visit our FAQ page for answers to activity specific questions you may have prior to registering.

Bommer Canyon Preserve Almost Full Moon Hike
Date:
Sat, 11/25/2023
Time:
4:30 pm - 7:00 pm
Where:
Bommer Canyon Preserve
Difficulty Rating:
3
Distance:
3 miles
Minimum Age:
12
Spaces Left:
Registration has closed.
More Information  

Sunday, November 26, 2023

Early Morning Hike: Fremont Canyon

Hiking & Fitness
Early Morning Hike: Fremont Canyon

Come enjoy a fast-paced early morning hike in Fremont Canyon Nature Preserve, part of OCParks’ Irvine Ranch Open Space. Our hike climbs steeply from the mouth of Fremont Canyon, past an abandoned coal mine up to the Fremont Weather Station where winds have been clocked at up to 100 mph. After enjoying the view, we’ll hike back the same way to our starting point. This hike involves steep hills and a 1200’ elevation change but the rewards are panoramic views of Orange County, the Santa Ana Mountains and surrounding areas as well as possible wildlife sightings. Please arrive 15 minutes early and come prepared with a sturdy day pack, water, snacks, closed-toe hiking shoes or boots, sunscreen, first aid, and all other supplies to keep you safe and healthy on the trail.

Reviewing the 1-through-5 Difficulty Ratings will help you evaluate your readiness to participate in this level-4 activity on the land. Please visit our FAQ page for answers to activity specific questions you may have prior to registering.

Early Morning Hike: Fremont Canyon
Date:
Sun, 11/26/2023
Time:
7:00 am - 9:30 am
Where:
Fremont Canyon Nature Preserve
Difficulty Rating:
4
Distance:
6 miles
Minimum Age:
18
Spaces Left:
Full
More Information  

Sunday Fitness Hike at Hicks Haul

Hiking & Fitness
Sunday Fitness Hike at Hicks Haul

Join us Sunday morning in OCParks’ Irvine Ranch Open Space for a fitness-focused hike on the Hicks Haul Road, West Loma and Shoestring trails in Limestone Canyon. Hikers will enjoy wonderful views and a panoramic overview of Orange County. The hike starts at Hicks Haul Road staging area and will cover a distance of 8.5 miles, about 5 miles of the hike is on paved surface and rest on trails. Participants are expected to hike close to 3 miles per hour and come prepared with closed toe hiking boots or shoes, water, trail snacks, sunscreen, hat, day pack or fanny pack, and any other necessary equipment or supplies you might need to keep you safe on this hike.

Sunday Fitness Hike at Hicks Haul
Date:
Sun, 11/26/2023
Time:
7:00 am - 10:00 am
Where:
Limestone Canyon Nature Preserve
Difficulty Rating:
4
Distance:
8.5 miles
Minimum Age:
18
Spaces Left:
Registration has closed.
More Information  

Trail Patrol: Baker Canyon

Trail Work
Trail Patrol: Baker Canyon

Patrol for potential fitness activity.

Potential route: Silmod-Black Star Canyon-State Spur-Lakeview?-Black Star SCE-Black Star Canyon

Trail Patrol: Baker Canyon
Date:
Sun, 11/26/2023
Time:
7:00 am - 10:00 am
Where:
Black Star Canyon Wilderness Park
Difficulty Rating:
4
Distance:
6.5 miles
Minimum Age:
18
More Information  

Mountain Bike Clinic: Terrain Skills

Mountain Biking
Mountain Bike Clinic: Terrain Skills

If you are new to mountain biking and interested in getting started the right way, or if you just want to hone your existing skills developing terrain-influenced bike handling over several types of man-made features, this is the clinic for you! The class begins with a brief overview of rider fundamentals starting with platform position and weight transfer then covering equipment basics & setup, braking, gearing and a brief bike maintenance Q&A session followed by a series of exercises demonstrating terrain-influenced bike handling over a variety of man-made features including log piles, rock step-ups, A-frames and many more. These riding techniques will be taught and practiced at the Mountain Bike Skills Development area. This activity originates in the City of Irvine and travels into OC Parks’ Irvine Ranch Open Space.

Reviewing the 1-through-5 Difficulty Ratings will help you evaluate your readiness to participate in this level-3 activity on the land. Please visit our FAQ page for answers to activity specific questions you may have prior to registering.

Mountain Bike Clinic: Terrain Skills
Date:
Sun, 11/26/2023
Time:
8:00 am - 12:00 pm
Where:
Irvine Open Space Preserve
Difficulty Rating:
3
Distance:
2.5 miles
Minimum Age:
16
Spaces Left:
Registration has closed.
More Information  

Rocks are Rad: Geology Hike at Black Star Canyon

Interpretive
Rocks are Rad: Geology Hike at Black Star Canyon

Join us for a morning walk to one of the Irvine Ranch Natural Landmarks’ iconic geologic features. We will walk out to the red-faced cliffs of Black Star Canyon.  The early morning light from the sun will make for striking pictures of this geological treat.  We will cross the dry Silverado Creek and examine its effects on the local geology.  Then, we will stop at the red rock cliffs and discuss its formation and its future.  Finally, we will stop at an alluvial fan and talk about how it came to be.  This hike is geared towards families with curious minds.

The trail is an easy, flat ranch road, but the creek crossing is very rocky. Please bring water and all items needed to keep you safe during our walk. Hats and sunscreen are highly recommended as there is no shade along this route. Closed-toe shoes are a must.

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

Rocks are Rad: Geology Hike at Black Star Canyon
Date:
Sun, 11/26/2023
Time:
9:00 am - 11:30 am
Where:
Black Star Canyon Wilderness Park
Difficulty Rating:
2
Distance:
3.5 miles
Minimum Age:
8
Spaces Left:
Full
More Information  

Family Hike

Hiking & Fitness
Family Hike

Come and enjoy an easy, 2.5-mile family hike over moderate but uneven terrain (45-ft. elevation gain). Starting at the James Dilley Preserve, we will hike one of the most diverse areas of the park to Barbara’s Lake and back. Hike is led by Laguna Canyon Foundation naturalist volunteers. 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). For all ages; anyone under 18 must be accompanied by adult. For questions, call 949-497-8324 Mon-Fri or 949-923-2235 Sat/Sun. Parking: $3/vehicle. Registration at lagunacanyon.org for this event is required. Please register here.

Family Hike
Date:
Sun, 11/26/2023
Time:
3:00 pm - 5:00 pm
Where:
Laguna Coast Wilderness Park
Difficulty Rating:
1
Minimum Age:
All Ages
Family Friendly:
Yes
More Information