2020 marked the beginning of a new 11 year solar cycle which will see a dramatic increase in the number of sunspots over the next 4-6 years. During this family friendly program, we will learn all about sunspots, their effect on planet earth, and how to safely view them.

Each family or group in attendance will be given the supplies to make their very own DIY sunspot viewer.

We will also use a specially filtered telescope to view sunspots (if any are present and weather conditions are favorable).

Minors aged 16 and younger must have legal guardian present at all times.

Current CDC guidelines to prevent the spread of COVID-19 will be observed.

Registration required. For more information call (949) 923-2277 or email nathan.taxel@ocparks.com

Enjoy an early morning family hike in Whiting Ranch Wilderness Park. We will hike along the Borrego Canyon trail and the Red Rock Canyon trail to our destination for approximately 2 miles (4 miles in total). Total climbing elevation is around 500 feet. The hike will be 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.

Experience the serenity of Bommer Canyon under a full moon during this moderate-paced hike in the Irvine Open Space. 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.

Please note that you will be asked to adhere to the following protective measures during the activity in order to participate:

• Each individual adult must bring with them a signed liability waiver. Minors may be added to the waiver of their respective parent or legal guardian. The form will not be available on site.
• The waiver can be accessed and downloaded for print at home use here:  IRC Liability Waiver 2020.05
• Be registered in advance, no walk-up registration is permitted.
• Arrive with all necessary equipment to keep you safe on the trail, including water, proper attire, and closed-toe footwear, first aid, health needs etc.
• Restrooms will be available, but facilities will not be sanitized for each individual.
• You may be prevented from participating if you do not adhere to the above protocols.

Additionally, in an effort to respect and protect all employees, volunteers, and participants, please do not sign up or attend if you are not feeling well, exhibiting any symptoms of illness or have been in recent contact with someone who was ill.

Meet at the Peter and Mary Muth Interpretive Center for a walk around the Bay, lit by the full moon. We will see and hear nocturnal animals as the “night shift” clocks in for duty. If conditions are favorable we will also examine the moon through our telescope after the hike.

Minors aged 16 and younger must have a legal guardian present at all times.

Current CDC guidelines to prevent the spread of COVID-19 will be observed.

Rain will cancel the event.

For more information call 949 923 2277 or email nathan.taxel@ocparks.com

Enjoy an evening hike through stunning rock formations and fragrant native plants as you listen to the sounds of nature. This hike is done at an easy walking pace. This out-and-back program travels 2.5 miles round trip to scenic Loma Ridge and back down.

Join us for an exhilarating morning fitness hike on the paved Hicks Haul Road. This hike is a 6-mile route as a group – which is conducted at the speed of about 3.0 to 3.5 miles per hour.

The group may spread out for social distance reasons but generally will remain together for the entire hike.

The footing on the asphalt paved road is smoother than dirt roads and single-track trails normally found in Limestone Preserve but is beginning to show its age with cracks, crevices, and an occasional dip. Otherwise, the terrain is smooth, so this is a great hike 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.

Please note that you will be asked to adhere to the following protective measures during the activity in order to participate:

• Please note that you will be asked to adhere to the following protective measures during the activity in order to participate:
  • Each individual adult must bring with them a signed liability waiver. Minors may be added to the waiver of their respective parent or legal guardian. The form will not be available on site.
  • The waiver can be accessed and downloaded for print at home use here:  IRC Liability Waiver 2020.05
  • Be registered in advance, no walk-up registration is permitted.
  • Arrive with all necessary equipment to keep you safe on the trail, including water, proper attire, and closed-toe footwear, first aid, health needs etc.
  • Bring and make use of recommended facial coverings.
  • Facial coverings are also recommended during the activity.
  • Maintain proper physical distancing, a minimum of 6 feet, between yourself and all other members of the group at all times.
  • A contact-less arrival and sign-in process will be utilized to diminish touching and sharing items.
  • Restrooms will be available, but facilities will not be sanitized for each individual.
  • You may be prevented from participating if you do not adhere to the above protocols

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

Explore the richness of Newport Beach’s Buck Gully Reserve as we hike during the beautiful early evening hours. The stream is running and the rich plant and animal life is enjoying the cool, shady canyon, making for a fantastic evening hike in a natural oasis amid the suburban surroundings. We’ll walk along San Joaquin Hills Road, which overlooks Buck Gully, for the first mile and then drop down into the canyon on the Bobcat Trail, looping back through the upper end of the gully along the Buck Gully Trail. This activity is conducted at a walking pace, approximately 3 miles per hour.

Join us every Wednesday night for a faster-paced, fitness-focused, hike on the paved Hicks Haul Road. Hikers will enjoy wonderful sunset views and a panoramic view of Orange County. This hike travels about 3.5 miles, up to the top of Loma Ridge and back down. This fitness hike is much faster than a walk and some participants may speed walk or run. However, we will remain distanced as a group.

The hike is conducted at about an average of 3-3.5 miles per hour,  Most participants finish the route in about 1 hour.

Note that this paved surface is uneven and eroded. It contains cracks and dips in the road, you may wear regular running or walking shoes. Trail shoes are fine, but not required. You must be mindful while hiking, jogging, or walking. 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.