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.

Search & Filter Activities

Found 286 Events

Sunday, June 15, 2025

Dad Joke Hike

Interpretive
Dad Joke Hike

What do you a call a seagull that flies over the Bay?…a bagel!

Bring your father along and celebrate Father’s Day during an easy, 2.5-mile hike over easy but uneven terrain with approximately 50 feet of elevation gain. We will have interpretive stops along the way full of dad jokes and educational information about the Bay. 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. 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.

Dad Joke Hike
Date:
Sun, 06/15/2025
Time:
9:00 am - 11:00 am
Where:
Upper Newport Bay
Difficulty Rating:
1
Minimum Age:
8
Spaces Left:
27 of 30
More Information  

Weekly Nature Area Clean Up

Stewardship
Stewardship

Join Mile Square Regional Park staff and volunteers in enhancing the Nature Area habitat for local wildlife. Activities may include non-native plant removal, planting natives, watering, trash cleanup, and Butterfly Garden maintenance.

No experience is necessary; please bring a hat, sunscreen, snacks, water, wear closed toe shoes and a long sleeve shirt is recommended. Tools are provided. Please arrive on time, as work will begin promptly at 9 am.

Please note, this is a weekly reoccurring activity and space is limited. Please park in Parking Lot H and walk to the volunteer shed west of the overflow lot entrance.

• Space is limited and pre-registration is required.
• Minors ages 16 and younger must have a legal guardian present at all times.
• Rain or heat advisories cancel the event.

Weekly Nature Area Clean Up
Date:
Sun, 06/15/2025
Time:
9:00 am - 11:00 am
Where:
Mile Square Regional Park
Difficulty Rating:
1
Minimum Age:
8
Spaces Left:
25 of 25
More Information  

Monday, June 16, 2025

Hiking 101: Trail Tips for Beginners – Buck Gully

Hiking & Fitness
Hiking 101: Trail Tips for Beginners - Buck Gully

Hiking is a great way to connect to nature and stay healthy and active. If you are new to the outdoors, it can be difficult to know where to begin. Come out to Buck Gully, part of the City of Newport Beach’s Irvine Ranch Open Space Preserve, and start your hiking journey, or continue your existing one, on the right foot. Hiking 101 will help you understand gear, build your knowledge and skills and provide tips to assist you out on the trails. We will lead you through the basics of hiking: defining your hiking goals, packing appropriately, understanding and minimizing risks, and practicing proper trail etiquette. The activity will include a packing demonstration and a hike through our wildlands. No experience is necessary for this activity. 

Hiking 101: Trail Tips for Beginners - Buck Gully
Date:
Mon, 06/16/2025
Time:
9:00 am - 11:30 am
Where:
Buck Gully Reserve
Difficulty Rating:
2
Distance:
2 miles
Minimum Age:
6
Spaces Left:
Registration for this event opens at 8:00am on 06/01/2025
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 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, 06/16/2025
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 06/01/2025
More Information  

Tuesday, June 17, 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, 06/17/2025
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 06/02/2025
More Information  

Buck Gully Loop Hike

Hiking & Fitness
Buck Gully Loop Hike

Come and explore Newport Beach’s Buck Gully Reserve trail system. Beginning from the Oasis Senior Center, we’ll hike up through the almost 3-mile length of the canyon, then along San Joaquin Hills Road for a bit, stopping at Canyon Watch Park where we will take in the panoramic view of the reserve and the Pacific coastline before descending back into the canyon along the Bobcat Trail. Please bring water, a light trail snack, sturdy closed-toe shoes and supplies to keep you safe during the journey. Sunscreen and a hat are highly recommended. This activity is conducted at a walking pace, approximately 3 miles per hour.

Buck Gully Loop Hike
Date:
Tue, 06/17/2025
Time:
8:00 am - 11:30 am
Where:
Buck Gully Reserve
Difficulty Rating:
3
Distance:
6 miles
Minimum Age:
16
Spaces Left:
Registration for this event opens at 8:00am on 06/02/2025
More Information  

High School Youth Action Team: Tecate Cypress and Coast Live Oaks Stewardship

Stewardship
High School Youth Action Team: Tecate Cypress and Coast Live Oaks Stewardship

Spend the morning watering and nurturing Tecate Cypress trees and Coast Live Oak seedlings at the Fremont Staging area. Please be aware that you may be instructed to use tools for this activity such as but not limited to, pliers, mallets, trowels and shovels.

High School Youth Action Team: Tecate Cypress and Coast Live Oaks Stewardship
Date:
Tue, 06/17/2025
Time:
9:00 am - 11:00 am
Where:
Fremont Canyon Nature Preserve
Difficulty Rating:
2
Distance:
2 miles
Minimum Age:
14
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, 06/17/2025
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 06/02/2025
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, 06/17/2025
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 06/02/2025
More Information  

Wednesday, June 18, 2025

Spring Bird Walk

Interpretive
Interpretive

Join an experienced OC Parks volunteer and stroll through Irvine Regional Park searching high in the trees for flittering friends and low in the scrubs for bouncing birds. Bring your binoculars, sun protection, comfortable shoes and an eye for spotting birds!

This walk begins outside the Nature Center.

Walk-ins are 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.

Spring Bird Walk
Date:
Wed, 06/18/2025
Time:
7:30 am - 9:30 am
Where:
Irvine Regional Park
Difficulty Rating:
1
Minimum Age:
8
Spaces Left:
Registration for this event opens at 12:00am on 06/04/2025
More Information  

Critter Investigation: Magnificent Mountain Lions

Interpretive
Critter Investigation: Magnificent Mountain Lions

Bring your little ones (ages 2 to 5) to learn more about mountain lions! 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: Magnificent Mountain Lions
Date:
Wed, 06/18/2025
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 06/04/2025
More Information  

Twilight Cardio Hike: Fremont Canyon Coal Mine

Hiking & Fitness
Twilight Cardio Hike: Fremont Canyon Coal Mine

Come enjoy a scenic evening cardio hike in the remote Fremont Canyon Nature Preserve, part of OCParks’ 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. After enjoying the view, we’ll turnaround and hike back the same way to our starting point.

This challenging hike involves steep climbs and a 1200’ elevation gain but the rewards are sweeping views of Fremont at sunset. Please arrive 15 minutes early and come prepared with a sturdy pack, water, closed-toe hiking shoes or boots, sunscreen, first aid, and all other supplies to keep you safe and healthy on the trail.

Twilight Cardio Hike: Fremont Canyon Coal Mine
Date:
Wed, 06/18/2025
Time:
5:30 pm - 8:00 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 06/03/2025
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, 06/18/2025
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 06/03/2025
More Information  

Thursday, June 19, 2025

Thursday Morning Trek: Baker Canyon

Hiking & Fitness
Thursday Morning Trek: Baker Canyon

This week in OC Parks’ Irvine Ranch Open Space, we’ll hike in Baker Canyon. This scenic hike includes steep climbs and descents on both single and double-track trails with about 1100 feet of accumulated climbing. We will enjoy sweeping views of the Irvine Ranch Natural Landmarks and the Santa Ana Mountains. On clear days, we can see Catalina Island and even beyond into the Los Angeles Basin. Please wear hiking shoes/boots and bring water, a trail snack, sun screen, hat, and any other necessary equipment to keep you safe on the trail. Participants must be able to hike 7 miles with an elevation gain of 1100 feet at an average moving rate of 3 miles per hour. Each hiker must carry their own water and supplies.

Thursday Morning Trek: Baker Canyon
Date:
Thu, 06/19/2025
Time:
7:30 am - 11:00 am
Where:
Black Star Canyon Wilderness Park
Difficulty Rating:
4
Distance:
7 miles
Minimum Age:
16
Spaces Left:
Registration for this event opens at 8:00am on 06/04/2025
More Information  

Fitness Hike – Ridge Park

Hiking & Fitness
Fitness Hike - Ridge Park

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, moderately paced, 6.6-mile hike over steep and uneven terrain with a 1,100-ft. elevation gain.

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

Location: Ridge Park, Laguna Coast Wilderness Park. Meet at the end of Ridge Park Road/Trail Entrance.

Parking: Free neighborhood parking. Please park legally. 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 - Ridge Park
Date:
Thu, 06/19/2025
Time:
8:30 am - 11:00 am
Where:
Laguna Coast Wilderness Park
Difficulty Rating:
4
Minimum Age:
16
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, 06/19/2025
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 06/04/2025
More Information  

Friday, June 20, 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, 06/20/2025
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 06/05/2025
More Information  

Summer Morning Fitness Hike with Yoga at Quail Hill

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

Celebrate the first day of Summer with 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.

Summer Morning Fitness Hike with Yoga at Quail Hill
Date:
Fri, 06/20/2025
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 06/05/2025
More Information  

Baker Meadow Stewardship

Stewardship
Baker Meadow Stewardship

Spend your morning watering newly planted Coast Live Oak trees within a beautiful oak woodland in Baker Canyon. No experience necessary.

Baker Meadow Stewardship
Date:
Fri, 06/20/2025
Time:
9:00 am - 12:00 pm
Where:
Black Star Canyon Wilderness Park
Difficulty Rating:
2
Distance:
2 miles
Minimum Age:
15
Spaces Left:
Registration for this event opens at 8:00am on 06/05/2025
More Information  

Nature Creativity: Wire Wrapped Stone Jewelry

Interpretive
Interpretive

Join us for a hike through Laguna Canyon as we uncover the fascinating geological history of the area. Along the way, we’ll explore the origins and characteristics of the stones that make up the canyon, learning how natural forces shaped this beautiful landscape. After the hike, we’ll use wire-wrapping techniques to craft your very own custom stone jewelry, turning a piece of nature’s history into a wearable work of art!

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

Location: Willow Staging Area, Laguna Coast Wilderness Park (West side of Laguna Canyon Rd/SR-133, just south of El Toro Road).

Parking: $3/car at Willow Staging Area parking lot. Parking is limited; carpooling is encouraged. 

Difficulty Rating: 2/5  

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. 

Nature Creativity: Wire Wrapped Stone Jewelry
Date:
Fri, 06/20/2025
Time:
9:30 am - 11:30 am
Where:
Laguna Coast Wilderness Park
Difficulty Rating:
1
Minimum Age:
12
More Information  
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