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 287 Events

Wednesday, June 11, 2025

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:
Wed, 06/11/2025
Time:
10:00 am - 2:00 pm
Where:
Black Star Canyon Wilderness Park
Difficulty Rating:
3
Distance:
3 miles
Minimum Age:
11
Spaces Left:
Registration for this event opens at 12:00am on 05/28/2025
More Information  

Sunset Yoga Hike at Orchard Hills

Hiking & Fitness
Sunset Yoga Hike at Orchard Hills

Unwind in the afternoon with a 3+ mile moderate hike to warm up your legs before experiencing a gentle flow yoga practice in nature. The trail meanders through an avocado orchard on the edge of the open space preserve. 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 appropriate shoes for hiking.

Sunset Yoga Hike at Orchard Hills
Date:
Wed, 06/11/2025
Time:
5:00 pm - 8:00 pm
Where:
Orchard Hills
Difficulty Rating:
2
Distance:
2 miles
Minimum Age:
15
Spaces Left:
Registration for this event opens at 8:00am on 05/27/2025
More Information  

After Work Cardio Hike in Weir Canyon: Weir(d) Eight

Hiking & Fitness
After Work Cardio Hike in Weir Canyon: Weir(d) Eight
Join us for a strenuous, extremely challenging, fast-paced cardio hike in Weir Canyon that leads us on a figure eight-shaped route. Along the way we’ll be rewarded with stunning panoramic views of Weir Canyon, Gypsum Canyon, Fremont Canyon, and Blind Canyon. On a clear day it is possible to see Catalina Island, Mount Baldy, and even Downtown LA. Wildlife sightings are possible, too.
This is an advanced 9.5 mile cardio hike, completed in less than 3 hours and includes 1600 ft of elevation gain. This hike is for experienced, physically fit hikers who enjoy the challenge of multiple steep climbs and descents. There are no rest stops and the average 3.5 mile per hour fast-pace can be extremely difficult over steep terrain in the wilderness setting.
After Work Cardio Hike in Weir Canyon: Weir(d) Eight
Date:
Wed, 06/11/2025
Time:
5:30 pm - 8:30 pm
Where:
Weir Canyon Nature Preserve
Difficulty Rating:
4
Distance:
9.5 miles
Minimum Age:
18
Spaces Left:
Registration for this event opens at 8:00am on 05/27/2025
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, 06/11/2025
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 8:00am on 05/27/2025
More Information  

Nature Immersion Meditation

Interpretive
Interpretive

Mindfulness is the practice of being present and aware in the moment. It can help reduce stress and anxiety, improve mood, and promote overall well-being. Come cultivate mindfulness, in Nature. This guided meditation session is a space to truly engage your senses and relax that busy mind. Give yourself this time to notice the sights, sounds, smells, and tastes around you. Engaging your senses can help bring you into the present moment, cultivating awareness, inner peace, and JOY. Spending time immersed in Nature can help boost your immune system too!

Close toed shoes and comfortable clothing are recommended. A yoga mat or portable chair is suggested, along with sun protection and water. If you do not have something to sit on, your guide has extra tarps and pads to sit on.

This program is recommended for ages 10 and older. Minors under 18 must be accompanied by a guardian. No experience necessary!

We will meet at Parking Lot H.

Advance registration required.

This program is free and parking is $3 per vehicle. Please arrive on time to experience the full sequence of the program.

For questions, please call (657) 735-3596 or email averil.lough@ocparks.com.

Nature Immersion Meditation
Date:
Wed, 06/11/2025
Time:
6:00 pm - 7:00 pm
Where:
Mile Square Regional Park
Difficulty Rating:
1
Minimum Age:
8
Spaces Left:
23 of 25
More Information  

Thursday, June 12, 2025

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, 06/12/2025
Time:
7:30 am - 11:00 am
Where:
Irvine Open Space Preserve
Difficulty Rating:
4
Distance:
8 miles
Minimum Age:
16
Spaces Left:
Registration for this event opens at 8:00am on 05/28/2025
More Information  

Fitness Hike – Nix/Little Sycamore

Hiking & Fitness
Fitness Hike - Nix/Little Sycamore

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, 7.2-mile hike over steep and uneven terrain with a 1,050-ft. elevation gain.

Age: 16 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: $3/car at Nix Nature Center 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 - Nix/Little Sycamore
Date:
Thu, 06/12/2025
Time:
8:30 am - 11:00 am
Where:
Laguna Coast Wilderness Park
Difficulty Rating:
4
Minimum Age:
16
More Information  

High School Youth Action Team: Dripping Springs Trail Restoration

Stewardship
High School Youth Action Team: Dripping Springs Trail Restoration

Spend the morning helping the High School Youth Action Team water newly planted oaks within a beautiful oak woodland, and then hike to Dripping Springs, a natural water source dripping out of an earthquake fault and down a gorgeous fern-covered rock face. Your work on the trail will benefit the rare plants and animals that this unique feature supports!

High School Youth Action Team: Dripping Springs Trail Restoration
Date:
Thu, 06/12/2025
Time:
9:00 am - 12:30 pm
Where:
Limestone Canyon Nature Preserve
Difficulty Rating:
3
Distance:
3.5 miles
Minimum Age:
13
More Information  

Little Explorers: Cactus!

Interpretive
Interpretive

Join OC Park naturalists for story time and short hike with your little ones (ages 3-6) as we explore the wonderful world of cacti! We will be discovering what makes cactus such a unique plant!

Age: 3-6 year-olds. 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, West 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. 

Little Explorers: Cactus!
Date:
Thu, 06/12/2025
Time:
9:00 am - 11:00 am
Where:
Laguna Coast Wilderness Park
Difficulty Rating:
1
Minimum Age:
3
More Information  

What’s Buzzing at the Native Seed Farm? Native Plants and their Pollinators!

Interpretive
What's Buzzing at the Native Seed Farm? Native Plants and their Pollinators!

Join us as we explore the native seed farm while learning about plants, pollination, and pollinators. We’ll focus on the native plants grown at the farm as we talk about, and identify, the pollinators we find on them. Closed-toe shoes and water are required for the walk. Hats and sunscreen highly recommended.

What's Buzzing at the Native Seed Farm? Native Plants and their Pollinators!
Date:
Thu, 06/12/2025
Time:
9:30 am - 11:30 am
Where:
Native Seed Farm COI
Difficulty Rating:
2
Distance:
1 miles
Minimum Age:
10
Spaces Left:
Registration for this event opens at 8:00am on 05/28/2025
More Information  

Baker Canyon Double Loop Equestrian Ride Through Black Star Wilderness Area

Equestrian
Baker Canyon Double Loop Equestrian Ride Through Black Star Wilderness Area

Come explore Baker Canyon in OCParks’ Irvine Ranch Open Space. This scenic equestrian ride involves steep climbs and descents on both double and singletrack trails and around 1000’ of accumulated elevation. We will travel through multiple landscapes of coastal sage and chaparral and rewards you with sweeping views of the Irvine Ranch Natural Landmarks as well as the Santa Ana Mountains. On clear days you can see Catalina Island and even beyond Orange County into the Los Angeles Basin. This is a shorter ride views make it well worth it.

Baker Canyon Double Loop Equestrian Ride Through Black Star Wilderness Area
Date:
Thu, 06/12/2025
Time:
10:00 am - 2:00 pm
Where:
Black Star Canyon Wilderness Park
Difficulty Rating:
4
Distance:
6 miles
Minimum Age:
18
Spaces Left:
Registration for this event opens at 8:00am on 05/28/2025
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, 06/12/2025
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 05/28/2025
More Information  

Friday, June 13, 2025

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 Spring? 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:
Fri, 06/13/2025
Time:
8:00 am - 11:00 am
Where:
Native Seed Farm OCP
Difficulty Rating:
2
Minimum Age:
8
Spaces Left:
Registration for this event opens at 8:00am on 05/29/2025
More Information  

Native Plant I Spy

Stewardship
Native Plant I Spy

At the Native Seed Farm, it is crucial to collect a variety of genetic material from different individuals within a plant species, so that an array of characteristics (flowering/seed times, size, tolerance to sun, and many more factors) are represented when incorporating it into IRC’s restoration projects. Although the Irvine Ranch Open Spaces are well loved and used by the community, they are some of the most under-documented open space areas in Orange County. For future seed collection efforts, it is crucial to document location data for populations so that we determine accurate identifications for hard-to-determine species, have current location data, and know the best time for collection. When seed collection season starts in the summer, it can be difficult to know exactly where some populations are due to many perennial plants going dormant or annual plants dying out. 

To assist with providing new genetic material, Plant Materials staff are asking for volunteers passionate about native plant identification to help record populations in under-documented areas within the the Irvine Ranch Open Space. No prior plant documentation or identification is required, but a smart phone or camera with GPS capability is heavily encouraged. All observations will be uploaded into IRC’s group Calflora account to help staff with assessing collection areas for the seed collecting season. 

Native Plant I Spy
Date:
Fri, 06/13/2025
Time:
8:00 am - 11:30 am
Where:
Limestone Canyon Nature Preserve
Difficulty Rating:
3
Minimum Age:
18
More Information  

Spring Morning Fitness Hike with Yoga at Quail Hill

Hiking & Fitness
Spring Morning Fitness Hike with Yoga at Quail Hill

Join us on a five mile out and back moderate fitness hike (averaging about 3 mph) before experiencing yoga outdoors at the Community Center. The hike is highlighted with a short but steep climb which provides great views of the Quail Hill neighborhood and beyond. The yoga is suitable for those with little or no experience, focused on hips, legs and core. 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, your own yoga mat plus a large beach towel, and wear shoes appropriate for hiking on trails.

Spring Morning Fitness Hike with Yoga at Quail Hill
Date:
Fri, 06/13/2025
Time:
8:00 am - 11:00 am
Where:
Quail Hill
Difficulty Rating:
3
Distance:
5 miles
Minimum Age:
18
Spaces Left:
Registration for this event opens at 8:00am on 05/29/2025
More Information  

Seasonal Science Series: Spring Social Butterfly Habitat Enhancement

Interpretive
Seasonal Science Series: Spring Social Butterfly Habitat Enhancement

Join us for a slow-paced interpretive hike related to current IRC projects focused on research, monitoring, and conservation.  The series will rotate through the landscape based on the season and projects.

For this series, we will spend the spring morning hiking along beautiful Limestone Canyon where we will focus on the butterflies in Limestone Canyon, and the newly created butterfly habitat plots.  These plots were seeded and planted with a variety of both host and nectar plants to aid the documented, declining population of butterflies in the canyon. We will hike through Limestone canyon plot by plot, and up to Dripping Springs, a natural water source dripping out of an earthquake fault and down a gorgeous fern-covered rock face.

Seasonal Science Series: Spring Social Butterfly Habitat Enhancement
Date:
Fri, 06/13/2025
Time:
8:30 am - 12:00 pm
Where:
Limestone Canyon Nature Preserve
Difficulty Rating:
3
Distance:
3.5 miles
Minimum Age:
16
Spaces Left:
Registration for this event opens at 8:00am on 05/29/2025
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.

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, 06/13/2025
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 05/30/2025
More Information  

Woodland Wellness Walk

Interpretive
Interpretive

Inspired by the Japanese practice of “shinrin-yoku” or “forest bathing,” this walk invites you to take a break from the busy world and immerse yourself in nature. Throughout the program, you will be encouraged to explore your surroundings using all your senses to deepen your connection with nature.

This is a guided, slow-paced walk with frequent opportunities to meditate and relax, designed for participants ages 16 and older. Participants are encouraged to bring a yoga mat or other comfortable seating and their favorite tea or water for the closing tea ceremony. Please wear comfortable attire and be prepared to walk on uneven terrain.

The program will begin outside the Santiago Oaks Nature Center. Please arrive on time to experience the full sequence of the program.

Registration is required.

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 657-253-3681 or shelly.marshall@ocparks.com.

Woodland Wellness Walk
Date:
Fri, 06/13/2025
Time:
10:00 am - 12:00 pm
Where:
Santiago Oaks Regional Park
Difficulty Rating:
1
Minimum Age:
16
Spaces Left:
Registration for this event opens at 12:00am on 05/30/2025
More Information  

Jr. Ranger Adventure: Upper Newport Bay

Interpretive
Jr. Ranger Adventure: Upper Newport Bay

*This program takes place at the Upper Newport Bay Nature Preserve, 2301 University Dr, Newport Beach, CA 92660*

The OC Parks Jr. Ranger Program encourages park guests to find their own paths 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 the Upper Newport Bay Nature Preserve, complete activities and take the OC Parks Jr. Ranger Oath to earn a unique Jr. Ranger badge.

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 and parking are free. Inclement weather will cancel the program.

Advance registration is required.

Jr. Ranger Adventure: Upper Newport Bay
Date:
Fri, 06/13/2025
Time:
3:30 pm - 5:00 pm
Where:
Upper Newport Bay
Difficulty Rating:
1
Minimum Age:
7
Spaces Left:
19 of 25
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 and should be able to hike steep hills.

Bommer Canyon East Fork and Ridge Route Loop Hike
Date:
Fri, 06/13/2025
Time:
6:00 pm - 8:00 pm
Where:
Bommer Canyon Preserve
Difficulty Rating:
3
Distance:
3 miles
Minimum Age:
18
Spaces Left:
Registration for this event opens at 8:00am on 05/29/2025
More Information  
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