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.
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
Saturday, July 27, 2024
Family Hike: Baker Canyon
![Interpretive](https://irlandmarks.wpenginepowered.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/08/activity-icon-interpretive.png)
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.
Thursday, August 1, 2024
Thursday Morning Trek: Baker Canyon
![Hiking & Fitness](https://irlandmarks.wpenginepowered.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/08/activity-icon-hiking-fitness.png)
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.
Saturday, August 3, 2024
Family Hike: Red Rocks at Black Star Canyon
![Interpretive](https://irlandmarks.wpenginepowered.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/08/activity-icon-interpretive.png)
Enjoy an afternoon family hike in Black Star Canyon, part of OC Parks’ Irvine Ranch Open Space. We will hike along a flat trail and cross a dry creek as we watch for red-tailed hawks and mule deer. The hike will average 3-4 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.
Sunday, August 4, 2024
Double Loop Hike: Baker Canyon
![Hiking & Fitness](https://irlandmarks.wpenginepowered.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/08/activity-icon-hiking-fitness.png)
Come explore OCParks’ Irvine Ranch Open Space. This scenic hike involves steep climbs and descents on both double and singletrack trails and around 1100’ of accumulated climbing elevation. Though challenging, the hike rewards you with sweeping views of the Irvine Ranch Natural Landmarks and Santa Ana Mountains. On clear days you can see Catalina Island and even beyond Orange County into the Los Angeles Basin.
Wednesday, August 7, 2024
Baker Canyon Equestrian Ride in Black Star Wilderness Area
![Equestrian](https://irlandmarks.wpenginepowered.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/08/activity-icon-equestrian.png)
Take a leisurely double loop 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.
Reviewing the 1-through-5 Difficulty Ratings will help you evaluate your readiness to participate in this level-3 activity on the land. Please visit our FAQ page for answers to activity-specific questions you may have prior to registering.
Thursday, August 8, 2024
Baker Canyon Double Loop Equestrian Ride Through Black Star Wilderness Area
![Equestrian](https://irlandmarks.wpenginepowered.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/08/activity-icon-equestrian.png)
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 1100’ 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.
Sunday, August 11, 2024
Nature’s Grocery Store
![Interpretive](https://irlandmarks.wpenginepowered.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/08/activity-icon-interpretive.png)
Come enjoy and learn about the bounty of the local flora and fauna. We will talk about how the animals and early settlers of the area survived and thrived with what nature has to offer. We will discuss how over-grazing, weather, and seasonal patterns affected the daily availability of food in times when there were no grocery or convenience stores. Buckwheat graham crackers, prickly pear jam, and lemonade berry drink are a few of the tempting treats that we will taste-test. After a few snacks, we will take a short stroll along Baker Canyon and take in all the bounty of nature.
Reviewing the 1-through-5 Difficulty Ratings will help you evaluate your readiness to participate in this level-2 activity on the land.
Monday, August 12, 2024
Hot Birds of Summer at Black Star Wilderness – Bird Walk
![Interpretive](https://irlandmarks.wpenginepowered.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/08/activity-icon-interpretive.png)
It’s easy to think many of the birds we see and hear look and act the same. But do they? Bring your binoculars and join us on a slow/medium paced walk in OC Parks’ Irvine Ranch Open Space, 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.
Wednesday, August 14, 2024
Open Space Invaders: Invasive Plant Removal at Silverado
![Stewardship](https://irlandmarks.wpenginepowered.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/08/activity-icon-stewardship.png)
Non-native and invasive plant species are invading our native habitat and open spaces. They aggressively compete with our native plants for resources and spreads rapidly once established. Monitoring, management, and removal of these plant species is an important aspect of land management and habitat restoration.
Help us to manage populations of invasive plants and remove them from the habitat. No previous experience is necessary, just a desire to work outside and get dirty! Snake chaps, gloves, and tools will be provided but please feel free to bring your own if you have them. Please wear long pants, long sleeved shirts, close toed shoes, and protective sun protection. Note: This is a wilderness area, there are natural hazards. Snakes, including rattlesnakes, are occasionally seen here.
Sunday, August 18, 2024
Nature Journaling at Night on Blue Moon
![Interpretive](https://irlandmarks.wpenginepowered.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/08/activity-icon-interpretive.png)
Come nature journal at night! We will observe as the day winds down for the nocturnal life to wake up. Nature journaling is a wonderful tool for nature observations, creating lasting memories, and making deeper connections with nature. 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.
This month sees a Blue Moon, though not in color! There are typically three full moons in a season; this summer there are four, making this month’s full moon known as a “Blue Moon.”
Bring a red-tinted flashlight or a soft light to use as your light source, nature journal and your own art materials such as pencils, pens, or watercolors. A portable chair is recommended along with warm layers, water, and snacks. Be prepared to move along the trail a short distance and sit to document the night’s beauty around you.
Friday, August 23, 2024
Baker Meadow Stewardship
![Stewardship](https://irlandmarks.wpenginepowered.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/08/activity-icon-stewardship.png)
Spend your morning watering, mulching and weeding the newly planted Coast Live Oak seedlings within a beautiful oak woodland in Baker Canyon. No experience necessary.
Baker Canyon Equestrian Ride in Black Star Wilderness Area
![Equestrian](https://irlandmarks.wpenginepowered.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/08/activity-icon-equestrian.png)
Take a leisurely double loop 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.
Reviewing the 1-through-5 Difficulty Ratings will help you evaluate your readiness to participate in this level-3 activity on the land. Please visit our FAQ page for answers to activity-specific questions you may have prior to registering.
Saturday, August 24, 2024
Family Hike: Baker Canyon
![Interpretive](https://irlandmarks.wpenginepowered.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/08/activity-icon-interpretive.png)
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.
Thursday, August 29, 2024
OC Public Library and IRC Nature Storytime Series: Native Plants and Animals on the Irvine Ranch Landmarks
![Interpretive](https://irlandmarks.wpenginepowered.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/08/activity-icon-interpretive.png)
Nature Storytime Experience for Kids and Families
This collaboration between OC Public Libraries and Irvine Ranch Conservancy is an exciting nature experience for the community to learn more about the natural environment surrounding Orange County.
The in-person live discussion includes storybooks, activities, and a craft we begin together.
The Nature Storytime series is about native plants and animals on the Irvine Ranch Landmarks. During this session, we will explore the local native flowers found in the Irvine Ranch Open Space in Orange County.
To learn more about nature in your backyard and the land the Irvine Ranch Conservancy manages, please EXPLORE the Landmarks. To go on a virtual hike visit our IRNaturalLandmarks Channel
Book reading during the discussion will be fun for all ages. Content learning is for all ages but is recommended for ages between 3-9 for related crafts, and nature content.
Making a craft will be related to this interesting topic will be fun!
Book reading during the discussion is for all ages conducted by the OC RSM public library.
Sunday, September 1, 2024
Double Loop Hike: Baker Canyon
![Hiking & Fitness](https://irlandmarks.wpenginepowered.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/08/activity-icon-hiking-fitness.png)
Come explore OCParks’ Irvine Ranch Open Space. This scenic hike involves steep climbs and descents on both double and singletrack trails and around 1100’ of accumulated climbing elevation. Though challenging, the hike rewards you with sweeping views of the Irvine Ranch Natural Landmarks and Santa Ana Mountains. On clear days you can see Catalina Island and even beyond Orange County into the Los Angeles Basin.
Starry, Starry Night
![Interpretive](https://irlandmarks.wpenginepowered.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/08/activity-icon-interpretive.png)
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.
Reviewing the 1-through-5 Difficulty Ratings will help you evaluate your readiness to participate in this level-2 activity on the land. Please visit our FAQ page for answers to activity specific questions you may have prior to registering.
Saturday, September 7, 2024
Wilderness Access Day: Black Star Canyon
![Special Events](https://irlandmarks.wpenginepowered.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/08/activity-icon-special-events.png)
Black Star Canyon, part of OC Parks’ Irvine Ranch Open Space, offers pleasant introductory trails for beginner hikers and families as well as challenging experiences for seasoned trail users. Designated trails are available for self-guided hiking, biking and equestrian use. A variety of trail loops offer extended exploration throughout the canyons. Take time to explore the local plant communities and beautiful scenery in easy 30-minute walks or take in 7+ miles in a strong cardio trek.
Pre-registration is not required for this event, though it is available on the website. If you need driving directions, use the online registration to receive a map and instructions for getting to the Baker Canyon Staging Area. Parking is limited on Black Star Canyon Road and carpooling is strongly recommended. You will not be required to sign-in upon arrival, though an information booth with trail maps and suggested routes will be available in the staging area.
Wilderness Access Day: Black Star Canyon, Equestrian
![Equestrian](https://irlandmarks.wpenginepowered.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/08/activity-icon-equestrian.png)
Black Star Canyon, part of OCParks’ Irvine Ranch Open Space, offers pleasant introductory trails for beginner hikers and families as well as challenging experiences for seasoned trail users. Designated trails are available for self-guided hiking, biking and equestrian use. A variety of trail loops offer extended exploration throughout the canyons. Take time to explore the local plant communities and beautiful scenery in easy 30-minute walks or take in 7+ miles in a strong cardio trek.
There is limited space for equestrian parking along Black Star Canyon Road, carpooling is strongly encouraged. Riders must also have the ability to transport their horse to the staging area. It is a “first come, first serve” for trailer parking and therefore early arrival is HIGHLY recommended. Major crowds are typically present at the very start of the event. There are not typical equestrian amenities at the event such as hitching posts, steps to mount your horse or water troughs. Please be sure to time your arrival accordingly so you have plenty of time to enjoy the trails with your horse.
Saturday, September 14, 2024
Family Hike: Red Rocks/Black Star Canyon
![Interpretive](https://irlandmarks.wpenginepowered.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/08/activity-icon-interpretive.png)
Enjoy an afternoon family hike in Black Star Canyon, part of OC Parks’ Irvine Ranch Open Space. We will hike along a flat trail and cross a dry creek as we watch for red-tailed hawks and mule deer. The hike will average 3-4 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.
Monday, September 16, 2024
Hot Birds of Summer in Baker Canyon – Bird Walk
![Interpretive](https://irlandmarks.wpenginepowered.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/08/activity-icon-interpretive.png)
Bring your binoculars and join us on a slow/medium paced walk in OC Parks’ Irvine Ranch Open Space, as we search for resident and wintering 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 on ranch roads and single-track trails, 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. You may want to bring a small birding field guide if you have one. A few binoculars will be available to borrow.