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 442 Events

Sunday, August 17, 2025

Hoofprints and Horizons: a Gentle Family Hike with a Horse

Interpretive
Hoofprints and Horizons: a Gentle Family Hike with a Horse

Escape into the stunning landscapes of the Irvine Ranch Natural Landmarks with a one of kind family hiking experience. Our guided walk features a friendly horse, offering a special opportunity to interact with these magnificent animals while exploring the natural beauty of Southern California. This walk is perfect for all ages and abilities. It’s a chance to create long-lasting memories and foster a love for both horses and nature.

Please note: This hiking activity is for educational purposes. Participants should not bring their own horses as this is not an equestrian ride.

Hoofprints and Horizons: a Gentle Family Hike with a Horse
Date:
Sun, 08/17/2025
Time:
9:00 am - 12:00 pm
Where:
Limestone Canyon Nature Preserve
Difficulty Rating:
2
Distance:
3 miles
Minimum Age:
5
Spaces Left:
Registration for this event opens at 8:00am on 08/02/2025
More Information  

Pesky Pollution – Guided Interpretive Hike

Interpretive
Pesky Pollution - Guided Interpretive Hike

Come enjoy a 2.5-mile hike over easy but uneven terrain with approximately 150 feet of elevation gain. We will have interpretive stops along the way to learn about the unique environment of Upper Newport Bay.

This month we will be focusing on the pollutants that enter the Bay and how the wetlands work to clean the water! You’ll also learn how you can help to clean up this beautiful place.

Please note that we will be moving at a moderate pace.

Please bring water, snacks, and sun protection as needed. This program is geared towards those 8 and up. Unfortunately, this hiking trail is not stroller friendly. Individuals 16 and under must be accompanied by an adult.

The program and parking are free. Adverse weather may cancel the program.

Walk-ups are welcome, but advance registration is recommended.

Pesky Pollution - Guided Interpretive Hike
Date:
Sun, 08/17/2025
Time:
9:00 am - 11:00 am
Where:
Upper Newport Bay
Difficulty Rating:
1
Minimum Age:
8
Spaces Left:
Registration for this event opens at 6:00am on 07/17/2025
More Information  

Evening Family Beginner Mountain Bike Ride: Limestone Canyon to The Sinks

Mountain Biking
Evening Family Beginner Mountain Bike Ride: Limestone Canyon to The Sinks

For families and children ages 12 and up who would like to join IRC-certified volunteers in OC Parks’ Irvine Ranch Open Space on a longer, slow-paced, family-oriented ride through sycamores, oaks, and habitat native to California. The route takes us to The Sinks, Orange County’s own “Grand Canyon.” Along the way, we will stop and talk about the local habitat, and hope to see some of our local native animals and raptors. The ride is an 8-9 miles with 400-800 feet of elevation gain that may require hike-a‐bike for some riders. Motorized recreation vehicles of any class or type are not permitted for recreational use.

Evening Family Beginner Mountain Bike Ride: Limestone Canyon to The Sinks
Date:
Sun, 08/17/2025
Time:
4:00 pm - 6:30 pm
Where:
Limestone Canyon Nature Preserve
Difficulty Rating:
Variable
Distance:
8 miles
Minimum Age:
12
Spaces Left:
Registration for this event opens at 8:00am on 08/02/2025
More Information  

Monday, August 18, 2025

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, 08/18/2025
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 for this event opens at 8:00am on 08/03/2025
More Information  

Tuesday, August 19, 2025

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, 08/19/2025
Time:
7:30 am - 10:30 am
Where:
Limestone Canyon Nature Preserve
Difficulty Rating:
3
Distance:
8 miles
Minimum Age:
16
Spaces Left:
Registration for this event opens at 8:00am on 08/04/2025
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 Summer? 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, 08/19/2025
Time:
5:00 pm - 6:30 pm
Where:
Native Seed Farm OCP
Difficulty Rating:
3
Minimum Age:
14
Spaces Left:
Registration for this event opens at 8:00am on 08/04/2025
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. During this hike in the Irvine Ranch Open Space, you may travel at various hiking speeds based on your comfort level.  This out-and-back program travels 3.5 miles round trip up 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, 08/19/2025
Time:
6:00 pm - 7:30 pm
Where:
Limestone Canyon Nature Preserve
Difficulty Rating:
3
Distance:
3.5 miles
Minimum Age:
12
Spaces Left:
Registration for this event opens at 8:00am on 08/04/2025
More Information  

Wednesday, August 20, 2025

Summer Birdwatching

Interpretive
Interpretive

Summer is here and so is nesting season! Join an experienced OC Parks volunteer as you stroll through Santiago Oaks Regional Park searching high in the trees for our flittering friends and low in the shrubs for bouncing birds.

Bring your binoculars, sun protection, comfortable shoes and an eye for spotting our feathered friends!

This walk begins at the Santiago Oaks Nature Center.

Walk-ins welcome, but registration is recommended.

Inclement weather will cancel the program.

The program is free and parking is $3 per vehicle.

For questions, please contact resource specialist Shelly Marshall at (714) 973-6625 or shelly.marshall@ocparks.com.

Summer Birdwatching
Date:
Wed, 08/20/2025
Time:
7:30 am - 9:30 am
Where:
Santiago Oaks Regional Park
Difficulty Rating:
1
Minimum Age:
12
Spaces Left:
Registration for this event opens at 12:00am on 08/06/2025
More Information  

Explorers Hike: West Canyon Loop

Hiking & Fitness
Explorers Hike: West Canyon Loop

New to Laguna Coast Wilderness Park? Whether you’re a volunteer, a new hiker, or simply curious about this wild and beautiful landscape, join us for a welcoming orientation hike that will help you get your bearings—both on the trails and in the ecosystem.

This guided hike is designed to introduce you to key landmarks, trail connections, scenic viewpoints, and the incredible wildlife and native plants that call this place home. Along the way, we’ll share tips for exploring and stewarding the land responsibly. Perfect for first-time visitors, new volunteers, or anyone who wants to feel more at home in the coastal canyons.

This hike is approximately 4.2 miles long and has 660 feet of elevation gain, and includes views of the beautiful rock formations in the Canyon, the expanse of the South Coast Wilderness, and surrounding features.

Age: 12 or older. Participants under 18 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian.

Location: Nix Nature Center, Laguna Coast Wilderness Park (18751 Laguna Canyon Road, Laguna Beach 92651, East side of Laguna Canyon Rd/SR-133).

Parking: Free parking for volunteers at Nix Nature Center parking lot. Parking is limited, carpooling is encouraged.

Difficulty Rating: 3/5

Materials: Participants must bring plenty of water, closed-toed shoes, and sun protection.

Safety precautions and protocols:

Advanced registration required. Every individual, including children, must be registered. Register here.
Group sizes are minimized for safety purposes. For group registrations or questions please email volunteer@lagunacanyon.org
Participants must individually sign a waiver at the beginning of the program. For participants under 18, a parent or guardian must sign the waiver.
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.
Contact volunteer@lagunacanyon.org with any questions.

Weather, including high temperatures and wet or muddy trail conditions, may lead to cancellation of this event.

Explorers Hike: West Canyon Loop
Date:
Wed, 08/20/2025
Time:
8:30 am - 11:00 am
Where:
Laguna Coast Wilderness Park
Difficulty Rating:
3
Minimum Age:
12
More Information  

Critter Investigation: Remarkable Rattlesnakes

Interpretive
Interpretive

Bring your little ones (ages 2 to 5) to learn more about rattlesnakes! This fun and engaging program includes story time, an age-appropriate hike and themed craft.

The program begins at the Peter and Mary Muth Interpretive Center. Program content is tailored for the preschool level (ages 2-5), but all are welcome to attend. Please wear comfortable attire and closed-toe shoes.

The program and parking are free. Please register all adults and children.

Critter Investigation: Remarkable Rattlesnakes
Date:
Wed, 08/20/2025
Time:
10:00 am - 11:00 am
Where:
Upper Newport Bay
Difficulty Rating:
1
Minimum Age:
All Ages
Family Friendly:
Yes
Spaces Left:
Registration for this event opens at 6:00am on 08/06/2025
More Information  

Buck Gully Upper Loop Evening Hike

Hiking & Fitness
Buck Gully Upper Loop Evening Hike

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.

Buck Gully Upper Loop Evening Hike
Date:
Wed, 08/20/2025
Time:
4:00 pm - 6:30 pm
Where:
Buck Gully Reserve
Difficulty Rating:
3
Distance:
4 miles
Minimum Age:
12
Spaces Left:
Registration for this event opens at 8:00am on 08/05/2025
More Information  

After Work Cardio Hike: Both Sides of The Sinks

Hiking & Fitness
After Work Cardio Hike: Both Sides of The Sinks

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.

After Work Cardio Hike: Both Sides of The Sinks
Date:
Wed, 08/20/2025
Time:
5:30 pm - 8:00 pm
Where:
Limestone Canyon Nature Preserve
Difficulty Rating:
4
Distance:
8 miles
Minimum Age:
18
Spaces Left:
Registration for this event opens at 8:00am on 08/05/2025
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, 08/20/2025
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 for this event opens at 12:00am on 08/05/2025
More Information  

Thursday, August 21, 2025

Thursday Morning Trek: Bommer Canyon

Hiking & Fitness
Thursday Morning Trek: Bommer Canyon

This week in the Irvine Open Space Preserve, we’ll be in Bommer Canyon, once part of the historic Irvine cattle ranch where corrals and ranch equipment still stand. The hike is a seven-mile loop with some climbing but rewards you with fantastic views overlooking the ocean and many Irvine locales. Please bring water, a trail snack, sunscreen, a hat, and any other necessary equipment to keep you safe on the trail. Get your boots out and register to hike the loop through the Laguna Coast Wilderness and back to Cattle Camp.

Thursday Morning Trek: Bommer Canyon
Date:
Thu, 08/21/2025
Time:
7:00 am - 10:30 am
Where:
Bommer Canyon Preserve
Difficulty Rating:
4
Distance:
7 miles
Minimum Age:
16
Spaces Left:
Registration for this event opens at 12:00am on 08/06/2025
More Information  

Demonstration Garden Maintenance: Native Seed Farm

Stewardship
Demonstration Garden Maintenance: Native Seed Farm

Visitors to IRC’s Native Seed Farm are first greeted by our Demonstration Garden, providing inspiration for regionally suitable plant gardens. Our garden hosts a variety of native plant species which support a healthy local ecosystem!

IRC Volunteers are invited to help at our monthly Garden Maintenance Day! Our tasks each day are to be determined, but we’ll be tackling whatever jobs are a top priority to keep our Garden teeming with native plant life. Weeding, clearing, cutting, digging, watering, whatever it takes! Activities may include bending, stooping, crouching, squatting, long periods of standing, reaching, pulling, grabbing, and pushing.

Demonstration Garden Maintenance: Native Seed Farm
Date:
Thu, 08/21/2025
Time:
7:30 am - 11:00 am
Where:
Native Seed Farm OCP
Difficulty Rating:
2
Minimum Age:
18
Spaces Left:
Registration for this event opens at 12:00am on 08/06/2025
More Information  

Fitness Hike – Dilley

Hiking & Fitness
Fitness Hike - Dilley

Please be aware this is a Fitness Hike and not for beginners; the pace is approximately a 19-minute mile. Join Laguna Canyon Foundation Volunteers to raise your heart rate and your spirits on this strenuous, fast-paced, 5.3-mile hike over steep and uneven terrain with a 900-ft. elevation gain.

Age: 16 or older. Participants under 18 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian.

Location: James Dilley Preserve, Laguna Coast Wilderness Park (I-5 or 405 south to 133 south to stoplight at 73 toll road; and make a U-turn, go 1 block. Dilley is on the right.).

Parking: $3/car at James Dilley Preserve parking lot. Parking is limited, carpooling is encouraged.

Difficulty Rating: 4/5

Materials: Participants must bring plenty of water, closed-toed hiking shoes, and sun protection. Hiking poles are recommended.

Safety precautions and protocols:

Advanced registration required. Every individual, including children, must be registered. Register here.
Group sizes are minimized for safety purposes. For group registrations or questions please email volunteer@lagunacanyon.org
Participants must individually sign a waiver at the beginning of the program. For participants under 18, a parent or guardian must sign the waiver.
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.
Contact volunteer@lagunacanyon.org with any questions.

Weather, including high temperatures and wet or muddy trail conditions, may lead to cancellation of this event.

Fitness Hike - Dilley
Date:
Thu, 08/21/2025
Time:
8:30 am - 11:00 am
Where:
Laguna Coast Wilderness Park
Difficulty Rating:
4
Minimum Age:
16
More Information  

Equestrian Trail Ride: Horseshoe Loop to Fremont

Equestrian
Equestrian Trail Ride: Horseshoe Loop to Fremont

Bring your horse and join us on the sage-scented trail up and down gentle hills. We will start from Irvine Park and proceed on the Irvine Regional Park Horseshoe Loop to Waterworks Trail that will take us under the towering overpass of the 241 Toll Road. We will see the foot of the Irvine Lake Dam and catch a glimpse of the heart of Fremont Canyon, part of OC Parks’ Irvine Ranch Open Space. We will pass the site of an enormous coal pile left by miners of yesteryear and then return to the park.

This is a walking ride that travels on single track trails and wide ranch roads. There will be several easy to moderate climbs. The ride will start and finish in Irvine Regional Park. Equestrians who have trail riding experience and their own fit and able horse are welcome.

Equestrian Trail Ride: Horseshoe Loop to Fremont
Date:
Thu, 08/21/2025
Time:
9:00 am - 1:30 pm
Where:
Fremont Canyon Nature Preserve
Difficulty Rating:
4
Distance:
6 miles
Minimum Age:
18
Spaces Left:
Registration for this event opens at 8:00am on 08/06/2025
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. During this hike in the Irvine Open Space Preserve, you may travel at various hiking speeds based on your comfort level.  This out-and-back program travels 3.5 miles round trip up 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, 08/21/2025
Time:
6:00 pm - 7:30 pm
Where:
Irvine Open Space Preserve
Difficulty Rating:
3
Distance:
3.5 miles
Minimum Age:
12
Spaces Left:
Registration for this event opens at 8:00am on 08/06/2025
More Information  

Friday, August 22, 2025

Early Morning Hike to The Sinks: Limestone Canyon

Hiking & Fitness
Early Morning Hike to The Sinks: Limestone Canyon

Come along with us on this morning hike through beautiful Limestone Canyon Nature Preserve, part of OC Parks’ Irvine Ranch Open Space. You’ll be rewarded with a spectacular view of The Sinks as well as sweeping views of Orange County and the Santa Ana Mountains. This hike involves steep climbs and descents on both double and single-track trails.

Please note that the route for this hike may be shortened or altered due to trail conditions or adverse weather.

Early Morning Hike to The Sinks: Limestone Canyon
Date:
Fri, 08/22/2025
Time:
6:30 am - 10:30 am
Where:
Limestone Canyon Nature Preserve
Difficulty Rating:
5
Distance:
10 miles
Minimum Age:
18
Spaces Left:
Registration for this event opens at 8:00am on 08/07/2025
More Information  

Fourth Friday Habitat Restoration in Buck Gully

Stewardship
Fourth Friday Habitat Restoration in Buck Gully

Birds and other wildlife need healthy habitat to thrive. Simple things like planting native plants or removing non-native plants can greatly improve habitat for wildlife. You can be part of that positive impact while enjoying the beauty of Buck Gully near Newport Beach. Come help us with a variety of activities ranging from seed collection to weeding invasive plants.

This activity takes place on sloped terrain and sturdy hiking boots are highly recommended. All training, tools, and gloves will be provided to ensure your safety and comfort. Rattlesnakes are occasionally seen here and generally avoid people, but protective gear will be provided.

Fourth Friday Habitat Restoration in Buck Gully
Date:
Fri, 08/22/2025
Time:
8:00 am - 11:00 am
Where:
Buck Gully Reserve
Difficulty Rating:
3
Distance:
0 miles
Minimum Age:
18
Spaces Left:
Registration for this event opens at 8:00am on 08/07/2025
More Information  
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