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 400 Events

Friday, July 25, 2025

Jr. Ranger Adventure: Laguna Coast Wilderness Park

Interpretive
Jr. Ranger Adventure: Laguna Coast Wilderness Park

*This program takes place at Laguna Coast Wilderness Park, 18751 Laguna Canyon Road, Laguna Beach, CA 92651*

The OC Parks Jr. Ranger Program encourages park guests to explore the outdoor world within OC Parks by developing a sense of belonging, becoming a part of nature and feeling empowered to be stewards of Orange County’s natural and cultural resources.

Earn yourself a Laguna Coast Wilderness Park Jr. Ranger Badge by completing this Jr. Ranger quest! We will be exploring the wildlife corridors at Laguna Canyon and figuring out if and why animals are using them.

Age: Designed for 7 to 12 years of age, but all are welcome to participate. 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: $3/car at Nix Nature Center parking lot. Parking is limited, carpooling is encouraged. Difficulty Rating: 1/5

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 or shelbi.richardson@ocparks.com with any questions. 

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

Jr. Ranger Adventure: Laguna Coast Wilderness Park
Date:
Fri, 07/25/2025
Time:
9:00 am - 10:30 am
Where:
Laguna Coast Wilderness Park
Difficulty Rating:
1
Minimum Age:
7
More Information  

Baker Canyon Equestrian Ride in Black Star Wilderness Area

Equestrian
Baker Canyon Equestrian Ride in Black Star Wilderness Area

Take a leisurely equestrian ride through beautiful Baker Canyon in the Black Star Wilderness Area, home of oak woodlands, grasslands, and coastal sage scrub.  View evidence of the old ranch days when cattle once roamed the area and see some of the wildflowers that are native to our area.  You will gain amazing views of the local canyons and Irvine Lake.

Baker Canyon Equestrian Ride in Black Star Wilderness Area
Date:
Fri, 07/25/2025
Time:
10:00 am - 2:00 pm
Where:
Black Star Canyon Wilderness Park
Difficulty Rating:
3
Distance:
3 miles
Minimum Age:
11
Spaces Left:
5 of 6
More Information  

Wild Tales

Interpretive
Wild Tales

Spending time outside is one of the best ways to nurture curiosity and instill a love of the natural world. Bring your young ones and join OC Parks staff to learn all about the Newport Back Bay.

Our Wild Tales program is offered every Friday from 10:00-11:00am and includes a story time, an age-appropriate hike, and a themed craft. Each week will focus on a different topic that encourages young ones to learn about the outdoors.

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. Minors under age 18 must be accompanied by an adult guardian. Please wear comfortable attire and closed-toe shoes. Additionally, please note that the hiking portion of the program occurs on a non-stroller friendly trail.

Advance registration is REQUIRED. In an effort to keep our program size manageable and engaging for participants, this program no longer accepts walk ups. Program and parking are free.

Adverse weather conditions may move the program indoors or cancel it.

Wild Tales
Date:
Fri, 07/25/2025
Time:
10:00 am - 11:00 am
Where:
Upper Newport Bay
Difficulty Rating:
1
Minimum Age:
All Ages
Family Friendly:
Yes
Spaces Left:
Full
More Information  

Jr. Ranger Adventure: Irvine Regional Park

Interpretive
Jr. Ranger Adventure: Irvine Regional Park

The OC Parks Jr. Ranger Program encourages park guests to explore the outdoor world within OC Parks by developing a sense of belonging, becoming a part of nature and feeling empowered to be stewards of Orange County’s natural and cultural resources.

Participants will explore Irvine Regional Park, complete activities and take the OC Parks Jr. Ranger Oath to earn a unique Jr. Ranger badge. This program will begin outside the Nature Center.

This program is designed for ages 7 to 12, but all are welcome.

Minors must be accompanied by a parent or guardian during the program. Sunscreen, sturdy footwear and water are recommended.

The program is free and parking is $3 on weekdays. Inclement weather will cancel the program.

Advance registration is required.

For questions, please contact Resource Specialist Shelly Marshall at shelly.marshall@ocparks.com.

Jr. Ranger Adventure: Irvine Regional Park
Date:
Fri, 07/25/2025
Time:
3:30 pm - 5:00 pm
Where:
Irvine Regional Park
Difficulty Rating:
1
Minimum Age:
All Ages
Spaces Left:
4 of 25
More Information  

Twilight Hike in Orchard Hills

Hiking & Fitness
Twilight Hike in Orchard Hills

Come out and enjoy the evening with us on the Orchard Hills loop trail. This trail meanders around an avocado orchard on the edge of the open space preserve and provides fantastic ridge-top views of Irvine and the Pacific coastline.

The three-mile loop has several very steep climbs and uneven terrain. This hike is done at a moderate pace. Your effort is rewarded with a beautiful, unobstructed view to the west. This hike is not suitable for children under 12. Wear sturdy, closed-toed hiking shoes, bring water and a red LED flashlight.

Twilight Hike in Orchard Hills
Date:
Fri, 07/25/2025
Time:
6:00 pm - 8:00 pm
Where:
Orchard Hills
Difficulty Rating:
3
Distance:
3 miles
Minimum Age:
12
Spaces Left:
Full
More Information  

Nature Journaling at Night

Interpretive
Nature Journaling at Night

Nature journaling is a wonderful tool for nature observations, creating lasting memories, and making deeper connections with nature. Enjoy the transition from sunset to night during this activity.

Build upon your own sense of place to maximize mindfulness and relaxation. Each session will cover the basics of art theory and practices, journal anatomy, and immersing your senses in the wonders of nature. Bring a nature journal and your own art materials such as pencils, pens, or watercolors. A portable chair is recommended along with dressing appropriately for the weather, water, and snacks. Be prepared to move along the trail a short distance and sit to document the beauty around you.

Nature Journaling at Night
Date:
Fri, 07/25/2025
Time:
7:00 pm - 9:00 pm
Where:
Saddleback Wilderness
Difficulty Rating:
2
Distance:
2 miles
Minimum Age:
12
Spaces Left:
16 of 20
More Information  

Starry, Starry Night

Interpretive
Starry, Starry Night

Come join us for an interactive evening under the stars.  Immerse yourself in a scaled-down version of our solar system.  Test your imagination in naming the constellations.  Reenact the struggle between Orion and the Scorpion.  The hike will average 2-3 miles round trip at an easy pace with a high level of interpretation. This program is for participants who would like a slower-paced hike. Wear comfortable clothes and sturdy shoes and bring water for the hike. This activity is designed with kids ages 5 – 12 in mind but, everyone is welcome.

Starry, Starry Night
Date:
Fri, 07/25/2025
Time:
7:30 pm - 9:30 pm
Where:
Red Rock Wilderness
Difficulty Rating:
2
Distance:
3.5 miles
Minimum Age:
5
Family Friendly:
Yes
Spaces Left:
1 of 20
More Information  

Saturday, July 26, 2025

Mountain Bike Ride – Loop of Limestone Ridge and Red Rock Wilderness Area

Mountain Biking
Mountain Bike Ride - Loop of Limestone Ridge and Red Rock Wilderness Area
If you enjoy riding in wilderness on empty trails then join us on a docent-led mountain bike ride that loops through three nature preserves that are part of OC Parks’ Irvine Ranch Open Space. This ride is for experienced off-road riders in excellent cardio shape and comfortable with moderate climbs and largely non-technical single-track trails.
This ride starts by warming up on Limestone Canyon Road and then climbs Cactus Canyon to reach the top of the Limestone Ridge single track. The ride follows Limestone Ridge for most of the trail before plunging down to Santiago Canyon on the new Creek Trail. It continues on at the base of the Red Rock before entering Red Rock Nature Preserve for a loop around the top of the Red Rock.
Please note, the ride is 12 miles long, with approximately 1300 feet of elevation gain and will take about 2.5 hours to complete. It is important that participants bring sufficient food and water for a ride of this difficulty and duration. Also note that although the elevation gain of this ride is not severe and there are only two sustained climbs, there are a number of short but steep sections within these climbs.
This program originates at the Augustine Staging Area in Limestone Canyon and loops through portions of the Limestone Canyon Nature Preserve and the Red Rock Wilderness.
Mountain Bike Ride - Loop of Limestone Ridge and Red Rock Wilderness Area
Date:
Sat, 07/26/2025
Time:
7:30 am - 10:00 am
Where:
Limestone Canyon Nature Preserve
Difficulty Rating:
3
Distance:
12 miles
Minimum Age:
18
Spaces Left:
11 of 20
More Information  

Accessibility for All: Birding Using the Power of Sound

Interpretive
Accessibility for All: Birding Using the Power of Sound

Bommer Canyon is home to a variety of birds whose unique songs and calls fill the air to enhance our experience in nature. In this activity we will focus on identifying birds by their vocalizations, making it an inclusive and accessible experience for all, including those with visual impairments.

The activity will start at the Cattle Camp with an introduction on how to recognize and distinguish bird sounds by pitch, tone, and pattern. Then embark on a short walk to immerse yourself in the audible sounds of nature and practice identifying birds by their distinct vocalizations. We will walk slowly for about half a mile through a maintained hard packed dirt trail about four feet wide.

No prior experience is necessary. Participants can bring their own birding enhancement equipment and extra binoculars will be available. Wear comfortable clothing and shoes and join us in appreciating and enjoying our feathered friends through the power of sound.

Be sure to bring water and all items needed to keep you safe during our activity. If you need any specific accommodations, please email info@IRConservancy.org

Accessibility for All: Birding Using the Power of Sound
Date:
Sat, 07/26/2025
Time:
8:00 am - 9:30 am
Where:
Bommer Canyon Preserve
Difficulty Rating:
1
Distance:
0.5 miles
Minimum Age:
16
Spaces Left:
9 of 15
More Information  

Growing Together at the Native Seed Farm

Stewardship
Growing Together 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 Irvine! Every day at the farm is different; depending on the needs of the farm we will be harvesting seeds from beautiful native plants, planting new seeds in the annual plots, working in our native plant demo garden, or tending to younger seedlings in our nursery.

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! 

Growing Together at the Native Seed Farm
Date:
Sat, 07/26/2025
Time:
8:00 am - 11:00 am
Where:
Native Seed Farm COI
Difficulty Rating:
2
Minimum Age:
8
Spaces Left:
10 of 15
More Information  

Wilderness Access Day: Saddleback Wilderness

Multi-Use Recreation
Wilderness Access Day: Saddleback 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 info@irconservancy.org to coordinate parking.

Come explore 3.3 miles of new trails at Saddleback Wilderness, part of OC Parks’ Irvine Ranch Open Space, through this self-guided opportunity.

Located within OC Parks’ Irvine Ranch Open Space, Saddleback Wilderness offers designated trails for self-guided hiking, biking and equestrian use. There are multiple trail loop options which vary in distance and level of difficulty. Choices range from an easy one-mile loop to multiple figure-8 configurations for those looking to maximize their mileage. Regardless of distance, nearly all options feature scenic views including a destination vista point offering 360-degree perspectives from the mountains to the sea.

Saddleback Wilderness is located at 3066 Santiago Canyon Road, Orange, CA.

Wilderness Access Day: Saddleback Wilderness
Date:
Sat, 07/26/2025
Time:
8:00 am - 2:00 pm
Where:
Saddleback Wilderness
Difficulty Rating:
Variable
Distance:
3.5 miles
Minimum Age:
All Ages
Family Friendly:
Yes
More Information  

Morning Yoga Hike in Baker Canyon

Hiking & Fitness
Morning Yoga Hike in Baker Canyon

Enjoy a 3+ mile hike and gentle yoga practice in nature. The hike through Baker Canyon, part of OCParks’ Irvine Ranch Open Space, includes an elevation gain of approximately 500′ and will be a nice warm up for a gentle morning yoga flow under a shaded canopy. Please bring water, your own yoga mat and large beach towel. Mats will not be provided; we will drop mats at secure location while hiking. Closed-toe shoes, water, hats and sunscreen recommended for the hike.

Morning Yoga Hike in Baker Canyon
Date:
Sat, 07/26/2025
Time:
8:30 am - 11:00 am
Where:
Black Star Canyon Wilderness Park
Difficulty Rating:
3
Distance:
4 miles
Minimum Age:
13
Spaces Left:
11 of 20
More Information  

Art in the Canyon – Botanical Sketching with the Sawdust

Interpretive
Art in the Canyon – Botanical Sketching with the Sawdust

Join Laguna Canyon Foundation (LCF) and the Sawdust Art Festival at LCF’s Headquarters as we learn about our native ecosystems and how we might explore them through art. This month’s program will feature a short native plant hike and instruction on how to sketch some featured plants. No experience is necessary.

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

Location: Laguna Canyon Foundation Headquarters (10 Phillips St. Laguna Beach, CA 92651, East side of highway 133)

Parking: Free at LCF Headquarters. Parking is limited; carpooling is encouraged.

Difficulty Rating: 1/5

Materials: Participants must bring plenty of water, closed-toed shoes, long pants, and sun protection. A Sawdust sketchbook and pencil will be provided.

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.

Art in the Canyon – Botanical Sketching with the Sawdust
Date:
Sat, 07/26/2025
Time:
9:00 am - 10:30 am
Where:
Laguna Coast Wilderness Park
Difficulty Rating:
1
Minimum Age:
16
More Information  

Create in the Park: Get Out and Sketch

Interpretive
Create in the Park: Get Out and Sketch

Join OC Parks at George Key Ranch Historic Park for Create in the Park! Professional artist, Dori Dewberry, guides you through the basics of sketching in plein air. Keep it simple with a sketchbook and pencil as you explore the tranquil gardens, citrus grove, farm equipment and historic home. Experienced artists are also welcome to join to sketch the park and share successes at the end of the session. A guided tour about the history of Key Ranch will also be included.

This program is designed for ages 12 and older. Materials
are not provided, only art instruction. A list of recommended
materials will be made available to all registered participants
in advance of the program. Sun protection, water and snacks
are recommended.

This program is free with free parking, but reservations
are required due to limited parking on-site. To RSVP, visit
OCParks.com for more information or contact the park office
at keyranch@ocparks.com.

Create in the Park: Get Out and Sketch
Date:
Sat, 07/26/2025
Time:
9:00 am - 12:00 pm
Where:
George Key Ranch Historical Park
Difficulty Rating:
1
Minimum Age:
12
Spaces Left:
8 of 20
More Information  

Family Hike: Baker Canyon

Interpretive
Family Hike: Baker Canyon

Enjoy an afternoon family hike in Baker Canyon, part of OC Parks’ Irvine Ranch Open Space. We will hike along a flat trail 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: Baker Canyon
Date:
Sat, 07/26/2025
Time:
4:30 pm - 7:00 pm
Where:
Black Star Canyon Wilderness Park
Difficulty Rating:
2
Distance:
2 miles
Minimum Age:
5
Family Friendly:
Yes
Spaces Left:
8 of 20
More Information  

Sunset Fitness Hike on Paved Hicks Haul Road: Both Sides of Loma Ridge

Hiking & Fitness
Sunset Fitness Hike on Paved Hicks Haul Road: Both Sides of Loma Ridge

You will enjoy a gorgeous sunset with panoramic views of Orange County while hiking in OC Parks’ Irvine Ranch Open Space on the paved Hicks Haul Road. This hike travels 6 miles, out and back crossing over Loma Ridge. This is the perfect activity for you to get your work-out in and view the sunset. The hike is conducted at an average pace of 3 miles per hour, but you may travel a bit faster or slower, at a walk, run, or jog depending on your comfort level. 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.

Sunset Fitness Hike on Paved Hicks Haul Road: Both Sides of Loma Ridge
Date:
Sat, 07/26/2025
Time:
6:00 pm - 8:00 pm
Where:
Limestone Canyon Nature Preserve
Difficulty Rating:
3
Distance:
6 miles
Minimum Age:
16
Spaces Left:
16 of 25
More Information  

Bats: Heroes of the Night

Interpretive
Bats: Heroes of the Night

As the day starts to settle into the night in OCParks’ Irvine Ranch Open Space, bats awaken, stir and streak into the evening sky. Come hear fascinating tales of our flying mammals. We will head out towards a popular roosting location as we watch our nighttime heroes begin their nightly adventures. This program is ideal to visually observe the bats in flight, though bat detectors are available to listen for their high-frequency calls. Be prepared to walk about 1/2 a mile. Dress warmly as it may be a chilly evening. A camping chair is welcome as we will enjoy an extended period of time listening for bats that fly about in the night.

Bats: Heroes of the Night
Date:
Sat, 07/26/2025
Time:
7:30 pm - 9:30 pm
Where:
Limestone Canyon Nature Preserve
Difficulty Rating:
1
Distance:
2 miles
Minimum Age:
5
Spaces Left:
5 of 30
More Information  

Sunday, July 27, 2025

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, 07/27/2025
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  

Bommer Canyon East Fork and Ridge Route Loop Hike

Hiking & Fitness
Bommer Canyon East Fork and Ridge Route Loop Hike

Experience the serenity of Bommer Canyon during this moderate-paced hike in the Irvine Open Space Preserve. We’ll experience mature coastal sage scrub and fantastic 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.

Bommer Canyon East Fork and Ridge Route Loop Hike
Date:
Sun, 07/27/2025
Time:
7:00 am - 10:00 am
Where:
Bommer Canyon Preserve
Difficulty Rating:
3
Distance:
3 miles
Minimum Age:
12
Spaces Left:
16 of 20
More Information  

Hangman’s Tree Monument Hike: Orchard Hills

Hiking & Fitness
Hangman's Tree Monument Hike: Orchard Hills

Join us for a challenging and beautiful adventure as we hike to the Hangman’s Tree Monument on Loma Ridge. Hike distance is 6 miles and affords fantastic views along the way, spanning the Pacific coastline, San Gabriel peaks and the Santa Ana Mountains. Several very steep climbs and descents are part of this route. We’ll accumulate almost 1800 feet of climbing elevation.

Hangman's Tree Monument Hike: Orchard Hills
Date:
Sun, 07/27/2025
Time:
7:00 am - 10:00 am
Where:
Orchard Hills
Difficulty Rating:
4
Distance:
6 miles
Minimum Age:
18
Spaces Left:
Full
More Information  
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