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.

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Found 11440 Events

Saturday, June 29, 2024

Trail Stewardship – Emerald Canyon

Trail Work
Trail Stewardship – Emerald Canyon

If you use the wilderness parks for hiking, biking, photography or just relaxing, Trail Stewardship might be right up your alley! Get up close and personal with the trails you use; you’ll see them in a whole new way. No experience necessary. This is FUN hard work. Whatever your skill level is, there is a job to do: clearing drains to get the water off of the trail, pruning vegetation back to keep users on the trail, moving dirt to rebuild eroded tread, and restoring impacted areas are just some of the tasks we will accomplish. We will be using tools such as loppers, picks, shovels, and McLeods to improve the user experience, protect the fragile habitat and increase the sustainability of our trails. Expect to hike up to 4 miles while carrying tools. Gloves and tools provided.

Please note: For safety reasons, we limit the number of participants for this event. If after you reserve your spot, you realize you cannot attend, please cancel your reservation and/or contact antonio@lagunacanyon.org so that the reservation will be available for another volunteer.

Please note the following safety precautions and protocols:

Pre-registration on lagunacanyon.org is required for this event. No walk-ups. Register here.
Each participant must register individually. For group registration, please email antonio@lagunacanyon.org for availability.
Group sizes will be minimized for safety purposes.
Each individual adult must sign the liability waiver – provided by the lead volunteers – when they arrive at the event.
Minimum age of 16 years old accompanied by a parent/guardian. If under 18 years old, a waiver must be signed by a parent/guardian, provided at the start of the event.
Participants must bring plenty of water, closed-toed hiking shoes, and sun protection.
In an effort to protect all employees, volunteers, and participants, please do not attend if you are not feeling well, have symptoms of illness or have been in contact with someone who was ill.

Location: Laguna Coast Wilderness Park, Emerald Canyon trail

Rendezvous location: Laguna Canyon Foundation Headquarters, 10 Phillips St, Laguna Beach CA

Link to location on Google Maps

Trail Stewardship – Emerald Canyon
Date:
Sat, 06/29/2024
Time:
8:00 am - 12:00 pm
Where:
Laguna Coast Wilderness Park
Difficulty Rating:
2
Minimum Age:
16
More Information  

Nature Hike at Gypsum Canyon Wilderness

Hiking & Fitness
Nature Hike at Gypsum Canyon Wilderness

Come join us at Gypsum Canyon Wilderness, part of OC Parks’ Irvine Ranch Open Space. The hike is 3-4.5 miles in length with elevation gain. We will hike along Oven Canyon trail through mixed habitat and then up through a single-track trail with switch backs and elevation gain to a 3 different overlook points with a spectacular view of Orange County. Please bring water, sunscreen, 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 up to 4.5 miles with an elevation gain of 500 feet at an average moving rate of 3 miles per hour. Each hiker must carry their own water and supplies.

Nature Hike at Gypsum Canyon Wilderness
Date:
Sat, 06/29/2024
Time:
8:30 am - 11:00 am
Where:
Gypsum Canyon Wilderness
Difficulty Rating:
3
Distance:
Variable
Minimum Age:
16
Spaces Left:
Registration has closed.
More Information  

Volunteer at OC Zoo’s Star Wars Day – Morning Shift

Special Events
Volunteer at OC Zoo's Star Wars Day - Morning Shift

Let the Force be with you when you volunteer at the OC Zoo for Star Wars Day! Park visitors are invited to join us for a day of family fun including crafts, games, and photo opportunities! The first 100 children in Star Wars costume will receive a special gift AND a free train ride ticket to Irvine Park Railroad.

Volunteers will be assigned various activities including helping at craft tables, kids games, photo prop tables, or handing out giveaways. Volunteer spaces are available for both trained OC Parks Volunteers and members of the public.

We will have 2 volunteer shifts: 9:15am-12:30pm (morning shift), and 12:00pm-3:15pm (afternoon shift). If you can work both shifts, that is very helpful! To be taken to the page to sign up for the afternoon shift, please click here.

If you have any questions, please reach out to OC Zoo Education Curator Marcy Crede-Booth at marcy.crede@ocparks.com. Thank you in advance for your help!

Volunteer at OC Zoo's Star Wars Day - Morning Shift
Date:
Sat, 06/29/2024
Time:
9:15 am - 12:30 pm
Where:
OC Zoo
Difficulty Rating:
1
Minimum Age:
18
Spaces Left:
Registration has closed.
More Information  

Biking the Bay

Mountain Biking
Mountain Biking

Join OC Parks for an interpretive bike ride around Upper Newport Bay! Participants will have the opportunity to get their heart rate up and pedal around the Bay, all while learning about local ecology and history.

This moderately-paced ride will cover a 10 mile section of the Back Bay Loop trail over the course of 2 and a half hours. We will remain on the paved portion of the trail and will have interpretative stops along the way.

Participants must provide their own bike and helmet. Minors must have a parent/guardian present at all times.

Distance: 10 miles
Elevation Change: 155 feet

Advance registration required. Rain or adverse weather will cancel the event.

Biking the Bay
Date:
Sat, 06/29/2024
Time:
9:30 am - 12:00 pm
Where:
Upper Newport Bay
Difficulty Rating:
2
Minimum Age:
14
Spaces Left:
Registration has closed.
More Information  

Volunteer at OC Zoo’s Star Wars Day – Afternoon Shift

Special Events
Volunteer at OC Zoo's Star Wars Day - Afternoon Shift

Let the Force be with you when you volunteer at the OC Zoo for Star Wars Day! Park visitors are invited to join us for a day of family fun including crafts, games, and photo opportunities! The first 100 children in Star Wars costume will receive a special gift AND a free train ride ticket to Irvine Park Railroad.

Volunteers will be assigned various activities including helping at craft tables, kids games, photo prop tables, or handing out giveaways. Volunteer spaces are available for both trained OC Parks Volunteers and members of the public.

We will have 2 volunteer shifts: 9:15am-12:30pm (morning shift), and 12:00pm-3:15pm (afternoon shift). If you can work both shifts, that is very helpful! To be taken to the page to sign up for the morning shift, please click here.

If you have any questions, please reach out to OC Zoo Education Curator Marcy Crede-Booth at marcy.crede@ocparks.com. Thank you in advance for your help!

Volunteer at OC Zoo's Star Wars Day - Afternoon Shift
Date:
Sat, 06/29/2024
Time:
12:00 pm - 3:15 pm
Where:
OC Zoo
Difficulty Rating:
1
Minimum Age:
18
Spaces Left:
Registration has closed.
More Information  

Family Hike: Black Star Canyon

Interpretive
Family Hike: Black Star Canyon

Enjoy an afternoon family hike in Black Star Canyon, part of OC Parks’ Irvine Ranch Open Space. We will hike along a flat trail and cross a dry creek as we watch for red-tailed hawks and mule deer. The hike will average 2 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.

Family Hike: Black Star Canyon
Date:
Sat, 06/29/2024
Time:
6:00 pm - 8:30 pm
Where:
Black Star Canyon Wilderness Park
Difficulty Rating:
2
Distance:
2 miles
Minimum Age:
6
Family Friendly:
Yes
Spaces Left:
Registration has closed.
More Information  

Sunday, June 30, 2024

Early Morning Hike: Fremont Canyon

Hiking & Fitness
Early Morning Hike: Fremont Canyon

Come enjoy an early morning hike in Fremont Canyon Nature Preserve, part of OC Parks’ 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; the entrance gate will be shut and locked 5 minutes before start of the activity. Be sure to 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.

Early Morning Hike: Fremont Canyon
Date:
Sun, 06/30/2024
Time:
6:30 am - 9:00 am
Where:
Fremont Canyon Nature Preserve
Difficulty Rating:
4
Distance:
6 miles
Minimum Age:
18
Spaces Left:
Full
More Information  

Intro to Cardio Hike: Weir Canyon Rifle Range Loop

Hiking & Fitness
Intro to Cardio Hike: Weir Canyon Rifle Range Loop

Thinking the cardio hikes might be too fast for you? If so, join us in beautiful Weir Canyon for this slightly slower introduction to cardio hiking. Along the trail, you’ll pass through coastal sage scrub, grasslands, and oak woodlands where deer and bobcats are frequently observed. Multiple steep climbs and descents, and sweeping views, are included throughout this 6-mile hike. Please make sure you are in excellent physical condition! Even though this is a slower cardio hike, it is faster than a walk. You must be able to hike 3+ miles per hour the entire time without stopping.

Intro to Cardio Hike: Weir Canyon Rifle Range Loop
Date:
Sun, 06/30/2024
Time:
7:00 am - 10:00 am
Where:
Weir Canyon Nature Preserve
Difficulty Rating:
3
Distance:
6 miles
Minimum Age:
16
Spaces Left:
Registration has closed.
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.

Mountain Bike Clinic: Terrain Skills
Date:
Sun, 06/30/2024
Time:
7:00 am - 11:00 am
Where:
Irvine Open Space Preserve
Difficulty Rating:
3
Distance:
2.5 miles
Minimum Age:
16
Spaces Left:
Registration has closed.
More Information  

Monday, July 1, 2024

Bridges of Buck Gully Hike

Hiking & Fitness
Bridges of Buck Gully Hike

Be inspired by both the natural beauty and recent history of Newport Beach’s Buck Gully Reserve, as we explore this protected area and the collaboration that made it possible. Buck Gully is a natural coastal canyon that opened to the public in 2012 with the installation of four bridges to provide safe public access. The bridges allow exploration of the entire Buck Gully Reserve, and also provide unique vantages and viewing platforms from which to pause and observe the abundant life in and around the stream that runs through the gully year-round. Our guided program starts with a short walk from the Oasis Senior Center to the beginning of the Buck Gully trail, with a visually dramatic entrance into this special canyon. We’ll cross two bridges on the first section of our walk, and then enter the canopied singletrack portion of the trail as we pass by the third bridge. At the fourth and last bridge, we will pause to enjoy the shaded beauty of this hidden refuge, and then retrace our route back to the Oasis.

Bridges of Buck Gully Hike
Date:
Mon, 07/01/2024
Time:
8:00 am - 11:00 am
Where:
Buck Gully Reserve
Difficulty Rating:
3
Distance:
4 miles
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 in the Irvine Open Space Preserve. 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.

After Work Fitness Hike on Paved Hicks Haul Road
Date:
Mon, 07/01/2024
Time:
6:00 pm - 7:30 pm
Where:
Irvine Open Space Preserve
Difficulty Rating:
3
Distance:
3.5 miles
Minimum Age:
16
Spaces Left:
Registration has closed.
More Information  

Tuesday, July 2, 2024

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 hike on the paved Hicks Haul Road in OC Parks’ Irvine Ranch Open Space. 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. The footing on the asphalt paved road is smoother than dirt roads and single track trails normally found in Limestone Canyon Nature 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 walk for anyone who wants a “wilderness experience” without getting dirty! The 6 and 8 mile routes experience two fairly steep ascents and descents. The 3 mile route takes you to the top of Loma Ridge and back down. 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.

Tuesday Morning Fitness Hike on Paved Hicks Haul Road
Date:
Tue, 07/02/2024
Time:
7:30 am - 10:30 am
Where:
Limestone Canyon Nature Preserve
Difficulty Rating:
3
Distance:
8 miles
Minimum Age:
16
Spaces Left:
Registration has closed.
More Information  

Takedown Tuesdays: Weeding at the Native Seed Farm

Stewardship
Takedown Tuesdays: Weeding at the Native Seed Farm

Looking for a way to give back to nature this Spring? Come help us behind the scenes at the Irvine Ranch Conservancy’s one-of-a-kind Native Seed Farm! In this evening activity, attendees will learn about one to two (1-2) target species before assisting staff in weeding efforts around our native plant crops. Working with us at the Native Seed Farm is a great way to grow your community and cultivate knowledge about local plant and wildlife! Absolutely no experience or special equipment required!

Takedown Tuesdays: Weeding at the Native Seed Farm
Date:
Tue, 07/02/2024
Time:
5:30 pm - 7:00 pm
Where:
Native Seed Farm OCP
Difficulty Rating:
3
Minimum Age:
14
Spaces Left:
Registration has closed.
More Information  

Evening Hike on Hicks Haul Road

Hiking & Fitness
Evening Hike on Hicks Haul Road

Enjoy an evening hike through stunning rock formations and fragrant native plants as you listen to the sounds of nature. This hike in the Irvine Open Space Preserve is done at an easy walking pace. This out-and-back program travels 3.5 miles round trip to scenic Loma Ridge and back down. Please bring a red-tinted flashlight as the return portion of the hike may be after sunset.

Evening Hike on Hicks Haul Road
Date:
Tue, 07/02/2024
Time:
6:00 pm - 7:30 pm
Where:
Irvine Open Space Preserve
Difficulty Rating:
2
Distance:
3.5 miles
Minimum Age:
12
Spaces Left:
Full
More Information  

Wednesday, July 3, 2024

Learn to Identify Birds by their Vocalizations in Limestone Canyon

Interpretive
Learn to Identify Birds by their Vocalizations in Limestone Canyon

The Open spaces are home to a wide variety of birds. Their songs and calls fill the air and enhance our experience in nature. Come and learn how to identify birds by their vocalization. We will have a short orientation to listening for pitch, tone, and pattern of bird sounds, then we will take a short walk and practice. No experience is necessary. Bring your binoculars, wear comfortable shoes, and enjoy listening and looking for our feathered friends.

Learn to Identify Birds by their Vocalizations in Limestone Canyon
Date:
Wed, 07/03/2024
Time:
7:30 am - 9:30 am
Where:
Limestone Canyon Nature Preserve
Difficulty Rating:
2
Distance:
Variable
Minimum Age:
16
Spaces Left:
Registration has closed.
More Information  

After Work Cardio Hike in Fremont Canyon

Hiking & Fitness
After Work Cardio Hike in Fremont Canyon

Leave the weekday chaos behind and dive into the peaceful beauty of Irvine Natural Landmarks with our energizing after-work cardio hike. Forget about the day’s worries as we trek through stunning landscapes, breathing in the fresh air and taking in the scenic views. Come along for a journey through winding paths and picturesque vistas, where we can recharge and refresh ourselves in the tranquility of nature. All participants must carry their own day pack and water and be comfortable hiking an average moving pace of 3.5 miles per hour. There will be minimal to no breaks. Please make sure you bring a minimum of 70 oz. of water and trail snacks.

After Work Cardio Hike in Fremont Canyon
Date:
Wed, 07/03/2024
Time:
5:00 pm - 9:00 pm
Where:
Fremont Canyon Nature Preserve
Difficulty Rating:
5
Distance:
14 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 OC Parks’ 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.

After Work Fitness Hike on Paved Hicks Haul Road
Date:
Wed, 07/03/2024
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  

Thursday, July 4, 2024

Thursday Morning Trek: Agua Chinon and The Sinks

Hiking & Fitness
Thursday Morning Trek: Agua Chinon and The Sinks

Come out and join us on a breathtaking hike from the Irvine Open Space Preserve into OC Parks’ Limestone Canyon Nature Preserve. This week’s docent-led hike begins in the Agua Chinon wash, continues to The Sinks, and may include a side trip to Box Springs, a natural year-round source of fresh water.

Maximum distance is just short of 8 miles, with some sustained climbing in one section. Participants must wear sturdy, closed-toe hiking shoes. Remember to pack plenty of water, sunscreen, a hat, and all other necessary equipment to keep you safe on the trail. This activity originates in the City of Irvine and travels into OC Parks’ Irvine Ranch Open Space.

Thursday Morning Trek: Agua Chinon and The Sinks
Date:
Thu, 07/04/2024
Time:
7:00 am - 10:30 am
Where:
Irvine Open Space Preserve
Difficulty Rating:
4
Distance:
8 miles
Minimum Age:
16
Spaces Left:
Registration has closed.
More Information  

Trail Crew: Buck Gully

Trail Work
Trail Work

Trail Crew Weed Pull: Buck Gully

Coordinated with IRC Staff, Adam Maywhort

Trail Crew: Buck Gully
Date:
Thu, 07/04/2024
Time:
9:30 am - 12:30 pm
Where:
Buck Gully Reserve
Difficulty Rating:
1
Distance:
0 miles
Minimum Age:
12
More Information  

Evening Hike on Hicks Haul Road

Hiking & Fitness
Evening Hike on Hicks Haul Road

Enjoy an evening hike through stunning rock formations and fragrant native plants as you listen to the sounds of nature. This hike in the Irvine Open Space Preserve is done at an easy walking pace. This out-and-back program travels 3.5 miles round trip to scenic Loma Ridge and back down. Please bring a red-tinted flashlight as the return portion of the hike may be after sunset.

Evening Hike on Hicks Haul Road
Date:
Thu, 07/04/2024
Time:
6:00 pm - 7:30 pm
Where:
Irvine Open Space Preserve
Difficulty Rating:
2
Distance:
3.5 miles
Minimum Age:
12
Spaces Left:
Registration has closed.
More Information