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.

Click here to learn more about IRC-Certified Volunteers.    •   Click here to learn more about the Difficulty Ratings.

Search & Filter Activities

Found 16 Events

Monday, April 29, 2024

Early Morning Hike: Gypsum Canyon Wilderness

Hiking & Fitness
Early Morning Hike: Gypsum Canyon Wilderness

Come explore the newly opened Gypsum Canyon Wilderness, the northernmost portion of OC Parks’ Irvine Ranch Open Space. This scenic hike involves steep climbs and descents on several single-track trails and is done at an average moving pace of 3 miles per hour. The rewards are many: panoramic views of Fremont and Weir Canyon Nature Preserves and beyond, possible wildlife sightings, interesting rock formations, and beautiful wildflowers in season.

Early Morning Hike: Gypsum Canyon Wilderness
Date:
Mon, 04/29/2024
Time:
6:30 AM - 9:30 AM
Where:
Gypsum Canyon Wilderness
Difficulty Rating:
4
Distance:
6.5 miles
Minimum Age:
18
Spaces Left:
6 of 20
More Information  

Friday, May 3, 2024

Morning Hike at Gypsum Canyon Wilderness

Interpretive
Morning Hike at Gypsum Canyon Wilderness

Explore Gypsum Canyon Wilderness and hike OC Parks’ newest trails!

Learn about native plants and animals that can be found in the area and take in remarkable views of Gypsum Canyon. This moderate hike on unpaved dirt trails is approximately four miles round trip with 600 feet of elevation gain. We’ll cover many topics including birding, history, geology and native plants while taking breaks to enjoy the views.

Participants should come prepared with water, snacks, sun protection and sturdy walking shoes. Rain or adverse weather conditions will cancel the program. Minors must be accompanied by a parent or guardian at all times.

Advance registration required.

Morning Hike at Gypsum Canyon Wilderness
Date:
Fri, 05/03/2024
Time:
8:00 AM - 10:30 AM
Where:
Gypsum Canyon Wilderness
Difficulty Rating:
2
Minimum Age:
12
Spaces Left:
8 of 20
More Information  

Wednesday, May 8, 2024

Nature Hike at Gypsum Canyon Wilderness

Hiking & Fitness
Nature Hike at Gypsum Canyon Wilderness

Come join us at Gypsum Canyon Wilderness, part of OC Parks’ Irvine Ranch Open Space for a slow-paced hike that offers an approachable experience for all skill levels to embrace their senses to explore the local flora and fauna. The hike is 3-4.5 miles in length with elevation gain. We will hike along Oven Canyon trail through mixed habitat and then up through a single-track trail with switch backs and elevation gain to 3 different overlook points with a spectacular view of Orange County.

Nature Hike at Gypsum Canyon Wilderness
Date:
Wed, 05/08/2024
Time:
9:00 AM - 11:30 AM
Where:
Gypsum Canyon Wilderness
Difficulty Rating:
3
Distance:
Variable
Minimum Age:
16
Spaces Left:
2 of 12
More Information  

Saturday, May 11, 2024

Wilderness Access Day: Gypsum Canyon Wilderness

Hiking & Fitness
Wilderness Access Day: Gypsum Canyon Wilderness

Come explore OC Parks’ newest trails at Gypsum Canyon Wilderness through this self-guided opportunity.

Located within OC Parks’ Irvine Ranch Open Space, Gypsum Canyon Wilderness features six miles of new trails for hiking, mountain biking and horseback riding. Two lookout points offer sweeping views of the surrounding canyons and unique prehistoric rock formations, while seven new trails provide multiple loop options that vary in distance and range from easy to moderate in difficulty.

Gypsum Canyon Wilderness is comprised of protected and preserved native habitats that a variety of wildlife, including mule deer, red-tailed hawks, California gnatcatchers and bobcats, call home. Visitors will have the opportunity to provide voluntary feedback about Gypsum Canyon Wilderness through on-site participation surveys and offer naming suggestions for several unnamed trails.

Advance registration is required.

 

Wilderness Access Day: Gypsum Canyon Wilderness
Date:
Sat, 05/11/2024
Time:
8:00 AM - 2:00 PM
Where:
Gypsum Canyon Wilderness
Difficulty Rating:
Variable
Minimum Age:
All Ages
Family Friendly:
Yes
Spaces Left:
Registration for this event opens at 12:00am on 05/03/2024
More Information  

Sunday, May 19, 2024

Moderate Paced Mountain Bike Ride – Gypsum Canyon

Mountain Biking
Moderate Paced Mountain Bike Ride - Gypsum Canyon

If you enjoy riding in scenic wilderness on uncrowded single/double track trails, then please join us on this docent led ride in Gypsum Canyon Wilderness Park. Gypsum is a new addition to OC Parks wilderness park offerings and while compact in size it has five new single-track trails that wander up to and around an overlook providing panoramic and interesting views of Gypsum Canyon and the surrounding lands.

Moderate Paced Mountain Bike Ride - Gypsum Canyon
Date:
Sun, 05/19/2024
Time:
8:00 AM - 11:00 AM
Where:
Gypsum Canyon Wilderness
Difficulty Rating:
3
Distance:
11 miles
Minimum Age:
14
Spaces Left:
Registration for this event opens at 8:00am on 05/04/2024
More Information  

Monday, May 20, 2024

Bright Birds of Spring in Gypsum Canyon – Bird Walk

Interpretive
Bright Birds of Spring in Gypsum Canyon - Bird Walk

Birds are among the most colorful and entertaining forms of wildlife on the Irvine Ranch Natural Landmarks. Bring your binoculars and join us on a slow/medium paced walk in OC Parks’ Gypsum Canyon Wilderness, as we search for resident and visiting birds of the local coastal sage scrub, oak woodland, riparian, and grassland habitats. We will discuss the diverse features of the birds we observe and how they match the season, their habitat and lifestyle. We will travel mostly on ranch roads, usually without shade. Beginners to advanced bird enthusiasts are welcome. Please wear sturdy shoes suitable for hiking and bring water, along with sun protection such as a hat and sunscreen. Bring a small birding field guide if you have one. A few binoculars will be available to borrow.

Bright Birds of Spring in Gypsum Canyon - Bird Walk
Date:
Mon, 05/20/2024
Time:
9:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Where:
Gypsum Canyon Wilderness
Difficulty Rating:
2
Distance:
3 miles
Minimum Age:
16
Spaces Left:
Registration for this event opens at 8:00am on 05/05/2024
More Information  

Monday, May 27, 2024

Early Morning Hike: Gypsum Canyon Wilderness

Hiking & Fitness
Early Morning Hike: Gypsum Canyon Wilderness

Come explore the newly opened Gypsum Canyon Wilderness, the northernmost portion of OC Parks’ Irvine Ranch Open Space. This scenic hike involves steep climbs and descents on several single-track trails and is done at an average moving pace of 3 miles per hour. The rewards are many: panoramic views of Fremont and Weir Canyon Nature Preserves and beyond, possible wildlife sightings, interesting rock formations, and beautiful wildflowers in season.

Early Morning Hike: Gypsum Canyon Wilderness
Date:
Mon, 05/27/2024
Time:
6:30 AM - 9:30 AM
Where:
Gypsum Canyon Wilderness
Difficulty Rating:
4
Distance:
6.5 miles
Minimum Age:
18
Spaces Left:
Registration for this event opens at 8:00am on 05/12/2024
More Information  

Saturday, June 8, 2024

Wilderness Access Day: Gypsum Canyon Wilderness

Hiking & Fitness
Wilderness Access Day: Gypsum Canyon 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 irvineranchopenspace@ocparks.com to coordinate parking.

Come explore 6 miles of new trails at Gypsum Canyon Wilderness through this self-guided opportunity.

Located within OC Parks’ Irvine Ranch Open Space, Gypsum Canyon Wilderness features seven new trails for hiking, mountain biking and horseback riding. Two lookout points offer sweeping views of the surrounding canyons and unique prehistoric rock formations. Multiple loop options that vary in distance and range from easy to moderate in difficulty are available for self-guided exploration.

Gypsum Canyon Wilderness is comprised of protected and preserved native habitats that a variety of wildlife, including mule deer, red-tailed hawks, California gnatcatchers and bobcats, call home.

Rain or inclement weather will cancel the program.

Gypsum Canyon Wilderness is located at 390 South Gypsum Canyon Road, Anaheim, CA 92887.

Please review our Trail Tips page and FAQ page to prepare for your experience in the wilderness area.

Wilderness Access Day: Gypsum Canyon Wilderness
Date:
Sat, 06/08/2024
Time:
8:00 AM - 2:00 PM
Where:
Gypsum Canyon Wilderness
Difficulty Rating:
Variable
Minimum Age:
All Ages
Family Friendly:
Yes
More Information  

Monday, June 17, 2024

Early Morning Hike: Gypsum Canyon Wilderness

Hiking & Fitness
Early Morning Hike: Gypsum Canyon Wilderness

Come explore the newly opened Gypsum Canyon Wilderness, the northernmost portion of OC Parks’ Irvine Ranch Open Space. This scenic hike involves steep climbs and descents on several single-track trails and is done at an average moving pace of 3 miles per hour. The rewards are many: panoramic views of Fremont and Weir Canyon Nature Preserves and beyond, possible wildlife sightings, interesting rock formations, and beautiful wildflowers in season.

Early Morning Hike: Gypsum Canyon Wilderness
Date:
Mon, 06/17/2024
Time:
6:30 AM - 9:30 AM
Where:
Gypsum Canyon Wilderness
Difficulty Rating:
4
Distance:
6.5 miles
Minimum Age:
18
Spaces Left:
Registration for this event opens at 8:00am on 06/02/2024
More Information  

Saturday, June 29, 2024

Nature Hike at Gypsum Canyon Wilderness

Hiking & Fitness
Nature Hike at Gypsum Canyon Wilderness

Come join us at Gypsum Canyon Wilderness, part of OC Parks’ Irvine Ranch Open Space. The hike is 3-4.5 miles in length with elevation gain. We will hike along Oven Canyon trail through mixed habitat and then up through a single-track trail with switch backs and elevation gain to a 3 different overlook points with a spectacular view of Orange County. Please bring water, sunscreen, hat, and any other necessary equipment to keep you safe on the trail and wear sturdy, closed-toe hiking shoes. Participants must be able to hike up to 4.5 miles with an elevation gain of 500 feet at an average moving rate of 3 miles per hour. Each hiker must carry their own water and supplies.

Nature Hike at Gypsum Canyon Wilderness
Date:
Sat, 06/29/2024
Time:
8:30 AM - 11:00 AM
Where:
Gypsum Canyon Wilderness
Difficulty Rating:
3
Distance:
Variable
Minimum Age:
16
Spaces Left:
Registration for this event opens at 8:00am on 06/14/2024
More Information  

Saturday, July 13, 2024

Wilderness Access Day: Gypsum Canyon Wilderness

Hiking & Fitness
Wilderness Access Day: Gypsum Canyon 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 irvineranchopenspace@ocparks.com to coordinate parking.

Come explore 6 miles of new trails at Gypsum Canyon Wilderness through this self-guided opportunity.

Located within OC Parks’ Irvine Ranch Open Space, Gypsum Canyon Wilderness features seven new trails for hiking, mountain biking and horseback riding. Two lookout points offer sweeping views of the surrounding canyons and unique prehistoric rock formations. Multiple loop options that vary in distance and range from easy to moderate in difficulty are available for self-guided exploration.

Gypsum Canyon Wilderness is comprised of protected and preserved native habitats that a variety of wildlife, including mule deer, red-tailed hawks, California gnatcatchers and bobcats, call home.

Rain or inclement weather will cancel the program.

Gypsum Canyon Wilderness is located at 390 South Gypsum Canyon Road, Anaheim, CA 92887.

Please review our Trail Tips page and FAQ page to prepare for your experience in the wilderness area.

Wilderness Access Day: Gypsum Canyon Wilderness
Date:
Sat, 07/13/2024
Time:
8:00 AM - 2:00 PM
Where:
Gypsum Canyon Wilderness
Difficulty Rating:
Variable
Minimum Age:
All Ages
Family Friendly:
Yes
More Information  

Saturday, August 10, 2024

Wilderness Access Day: Gypsum Canyon Wilderness

Hiking & Fitness
Wilderness Access Day: Gypsum Canyon 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 irvineranchopenspace@ocparks.com to coordinate parking.

Come explore 6 miles of new trails at Gypsum Canyon Wilderness through this self-guided opportunity.

Located within OC Parks’ Irvine Ranch Open Space, Gypsum Canyon Wilderness features seven new trails for hiking, mountain biking and horseback riding. Two lookout points offer sweeping views of the surrounding canyons and unique prehistoric rock formations. Multiple loop options that vary in distance and range from easy to moderate in difficulty are available for self-guided exploration.

Gypsum Canyon Wilderness is comprised of protected and preserved native habitats that a variety of wildlife, including mule deer, red-tailed hawks, California gnatcatchers and bobcats, call home.

Rain or inclement weather will cancel the program.

Gypsum Canyon Wilderness is located at 390 South Gypsum Canyon Road, Anaheim, CA 92887.

Please review our Trail Tips page and FAQ page to prepare for your experience in the wilderness area.

Wilderness Access Day: Gypsum Canyon Wilderness
Date:
Sat, 08/10/2024
Time:
8:00 AM - 2:00 PM
Where:
Gypsum Canyon Wilderness
Difficulty Rating:
Variable
Minimum Age:
All Ages
Family Friendly:
Yes
More Information  

Saturday, September 14, 2024

Wilderness Access Day: Gypsum Canyon Wilderness

Hiking & Fitness
Wilderness Access Day: Gypsum Canyon 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 irvineranchopenspace@ocparks.com to coordinate parking.

Come explore 6 miles of new trails at Gypsum Canyon Wilderness through this self-guided opportunity.

Located within OC Parks’ Irvine Ranch Open Space, Gypsum Canyon Wilderness features seven new trails for hiking, mountain biking and horseback riding. Two lookout points offer sweeping views of the surrounding canyons and unique prehistoric rock formations. Multiple loop options that vary in distance and range from easy to moderate in difficulty are available for self-guided exploration.

Gypsum Canyon Wilderness is comprised of protected and preserved native habitats that a variety of wildlife, including mule deer, red-tailed hawks, California gnatcatchers and bobcats, call home.

Rain or inclement weather will cancel the program.

Gypsum Canyon Wilderness is located at 390 South Gypsum Canyon Road, Anaheim, CA 92887.

Please review our Trail Tips page and FAQ page to prepare for your experience in the wilderness area.

Wilderness Access Day: Gypsum Canyon Wilderness
Date:
Sat, 09/14/2024
Time:
8:00 AM - 2:00 PM
Where:
Gypsum Canyon Wilderness
Difficulty Rating:
Variable
Minimum Age:
All Ages
Family Friendly:
Yes
More Information  

Saturday, October 12, 2024

Wilderness Access Day: Gypsum Canyon Wilderness

Hiking & Fitness
Wilderness Access Day: Gypsum Canyon 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 irvineranchopenspace@ocparks.com to coordinate parking.

Come explore 6 miles of new trails at Gypsum Canyon Wilderness through this self-guided opportunity.

Located within OC Parks’ Irvine Ranch Open Space, Gypsum Canyon Wilderness features seven new trails for hiking, mountain biking and horseback riding. Two lookout points offer sweeping views of the surrounding canyons and unique prehistoric rock formations. Multiple loop options that vary in distance and range from easy to moderate in difficulty are available for self-guided exploration.

Gypsum Canyon Wilderness is comprised of protected and preserved native habitats that a variety of wildlife, including mule deer, red-tailed hawks, California gnatcatchers and bobcats, call home.

Rain or inclement weather will cancel the program.

Gypsum Canyon Wilderness is located at 390 South Gypsum Canyon Road, Anaheim, CA 92887.

Please review our Trail Tips page and FAQ page to prepare for your experience in the wilderness area.

Wilderness Access Day: Gypsum Canyon Wilderness
Date:
Sat, 10/12/2024
Time:
8:00 AM - 2:00 PM
Where:
Gypsum Canyon Wilderness
Difficulty Rating:
Variable
Minimum Age:
All Ages
Family Friendly:
Yes
More Information  

Saturday, November 9, 2024

Wilderness Access Day: Gypsum Canyon Wilderness

Hiking & Fitness
Wilderness Access Day: Gypsum Canyon 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 irvineranchopenspace@ocparks.com to coordinate parking.

Come explore 6 miles of new trails at Gypsum Canyon Wilderness through this self-guided opportunity.

Located within OC Parks’ Irvine Ranch Open Space, Gypsum Canyon Wilderness features seven new trails for hiking, mountain biking and horseback riding. Two lookout points offer sweeping views of the surrounding canyons and unique prehistoric rock formations. Multiple loop options that vary in distance and range from easy to moderate in difficulty are available for self-guided exploration.

Gypsum Canyon Wilderness is comprised of protected and preserved native habitats that a variety of wildlife, including mule deer, red-tailed hawks, California gnatcatchers and bobcats, call home.

Rain or inclement weather will cancel the program.

Gypsum Canyon Wilderness is located at 390 South Gypsum Canyon Road, Anaheim, CA 92887.

Please review our Trail Tips page and FAQ page to prepare for your experience in the wilderness area.

Wilderness Access Day: Gypsum Canyon Wilderness
Date:
Sat, 11/09/2024
Time:
8:00 AM - 2:00 PM
Where:
Gypsum Canyon Wilderness
Difficulty Rating:
Variable
Minimum Age:
All Ages
Family Friendly:
Yes
More Information  

Saturday, December 14, 2024

Wilderness Access Day: Gypsum Canyon Wilderness

Hiking & Fitness
Wilderness Access Day: Gypsum Canyon 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 irvineranchopenspace@ocparks.com to coordinate parking.

Come explore 6 miles of new trails at Gypsum Canyon Wilderness through this self-guided opportunity.

Located within OC Parks’ Irvine Ranch Open Space, Gypsum Canyon Wilderness features seven new trails for hiking, mountain biking and horseback riding. Two lookout points offer sweeping views of the surrounding canyons and unique prehistoric rock formations. Multiple loop options that vary in distance and range from easy to moderate in difficulty are available for self-guided exploration.

Gypsum Canyon Wilderness is comprised of protected and preserved native habitats that a variety of wildlife, including mule deer, red-tailed hawks, California gnatcatchers and bobcats, call home.

Rain or inclement weather will cancel the program.

Gypsum Canyon Wilderness is located at 390 South Gypsum Canyon Road, Anaheim, CA 92887.

Please review our Trail Tips page and FAQ page to prepare for your experience in the wilderness area.

Wilderness Access Day: Gypsum Canyon Wilderness
Date:
Sat, 12/14/2024
Time:
8:00 AM - 2:00 PM
Where:
Gypsum Canyon Wilderness
Difficulty Rating:
Variable
Minimum Age:
All Ages
Family Friendly:
Yes
More Information