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 24 Events

Saturday, July 19, 2025

Nighttime Bugs: Baker Staging Area

Interpretive
Nighttime Bugs: Baker Staging Area

Join us for this evening program as we explore biodiversity at the local level with that most diverse group of organisms, the insects! Taking advantage of the fact that UV light is highly visible to most insects, we will attract them by using black-lights (low energy/low frequency UV lights). We can then examine them up close, record the different types (and their numbers). Don’t forget your camera as you’ll see creatures that are normally buzzing around, but not highly visible. You will be able to help us document what we find.

Reviewing the 1-through-5 Difficulty Ratings will help you evaluate your readiness to participate in this level-1 activity on the land. Please visit our FAQ page for answers to activity specific questions you may have prior to registering.

Nighttime Bugs: Baker Staging Area
Date:
Sat, 07/19/2025
Time:
8:00 pm - 9:45 pm
Where:
Black Star Canyon Wilderness Park
Difficulty Rating:
1
Minimum Age:
7
Spaces Left:
6 of 16
More Information  

Sunday, July 20, 2025

Single Tracks of Baker Canyon

Mountain Biking
Single Tracks of Baker Canyon
Enjoy riding in the wilderness on empty trails? Then join us on a docent-led mountain bike ride that loops through Baker Canyon. The route features expansive views of Silverado and Santiago Canyons, Irvine Lake and the Santa Ana Mountains, as well as the flora and fauna of the Black Star Canyon Wilderness Park. This is a great opportunity to enjoy this seldom visited wilderness area of Orange County!
This ride is designed for the experienced beginner to intermediate rider who is physically fit and can climb moderate climbs of up to one mile and is comfortable riding single track trails with some short/beginner technical sections. The ride is on largely non-technical single track trails and the fire roads that interconnect them. The ride will regroup and rest as needed and an opportunity will be provided for a snack break.
Please note, the ride is approximately 10 miles long with 1500 feet of elevation gain. The route has climbs with some moderately steep sections.
This activity originates and ends at the Baker Canyon Staging Area and takes place in OC Parks’ Black Star Canyon Wilderness Park.
Single Tracks of Baker Canyon
Date:
Sun, 07/20/2025
Time:
8:00 am - 10:30 am
Where:
Black Star Canyon Wilderness Park
Difficulty Rating:
3
Distance:
10 miles
Minimum Age:
16
Spaces Left:
2 of 15
More Information  

Friday, July 25, 2025

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, 07/25/2025
Time:
8:30 am - 11:30 am
Where:
Black Star Canyon Wilderness Park
Difficulty Rating:
2
Distance:
2 miles
Minimum Age:
15
Spaces Left:
4 of 6
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:
4 of 4
More Information  

Saturday, July 26, 2025

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:
13 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:
11 of 20
More Information  

Sunday, August 3, 2025

Early Morning Double Loop Hike: Baker Canyon

Hiking & Fitness
Early Morning Double Loop Hike: Baker Canyon

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.

Early Morning Double Loop Hike: Baker Canyon
Date:
Sun, 08/03/2025
Time:
6:30 am - 9:30 am
Where:
Black Star Canyon Wilderness Park
Difficulty Rating:
4
Distance:
7 miles
Minimum Age:
18
Spaces Left:
Registration for this event opens at 12:00am on 07/19/2025
More Information  

Thursday, August 7, 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, 08/07/2025
Time:
7:00 am - 10:30 am
Where:
Black Star Canyon Wilderness Park
Difficulty Rating:
4
Distance:
7 miles
Minimum Age:
16
Spaces Left:
Registration for this event opens at 12:00am on 07/23/2025
More Information  

Saturday, August 9, 2025

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, 08/09/2025
Time:
8:30 am - 11:00 am
Where:
Black Star Canyon Wilderness Park
Difficulty Rating:
3
Distance:
4 miles
Minimum Age:
13
Spaces Left:
Registration for this event opens at 8:00am on 07/25/2025
More Information  

Friday, August 15, 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:
Fri, 08/15/2025
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 8:00am on 07/31/2025
More Information  

Saturday, August 23, 2025

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, 08/23/2025
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:
Registration for this event opens at 12:00am on 08/08/2025
More Information  

Nighttime Bugs: Baker Staging Area

Interpretive
Nighttime Bugs: Baker Staging Area

Join us for this evening program as we explore biodiversity at the local level with that most diverse group of organisms, the insects! Taking advantage of the fact that UV light is highly visible to most insects, we will attract them by using black-lights (low energy/low frequency UV lights). We can then examine them up close, record the different types (and their numbers). Don’t forget your camera as you’ll see creatures that are normally buzzing around, but not highly visible. You will be able to help us document what we find.

Reviewing the 1-through-5 Difficulty Ratings will help you evaluate your readiness to participate in this level-1 activity on the land. Please visit our FAQ page for answers to activity specific questions you may have prior to registering.

Nighttime Bugs: Baker Staging Area
Date:
Sat, 08/23/2025
Time:
7:30 pm - 9:30 pm
Where:
Black Star Canyon Wilderness Park
Difficulty Rating:
1
Minimum Age:
7
Spaces Left:
Registration for this event opens at 8:00am on 08/08/2025
More Information  

Thursday, August 28, 2025

OC Public Library and IRC Nature Storytime Series: Native Plants and Animals on the Irvine Ranch Landmarks

Interpretive
OC Public Library and IRC Nature Storytime Series: Native Plants and Animals on the Irvine Ranch Landmarks

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.

OC Public Library and IRC Nature Storytime Series: Native Plants and Animals on the Irvine Ranch Landmarks
Date:
Thu, 08/28/2025
Time:
11:00 am - 12:30 pm
Where:
Black Star Canyon Wilderness Park
Difficulty Rating:
1
Distance:
0.5 miles
Minimum Age:
All Ages
Family Friendly:
Yes
More Information  

Wednesday, September 3, 2025

After Work Cardio Hike: Mesa Loop

Hiking & Fitness
After Work Cardio Hike: Mesa Loop

Leave the weekday chaos behind and dive into the peaceful beauty of Irvine Natural Landmarks with our energizing after-work cardio hike. Forget about the day’s worries as we trek through stunning landscapes, breathing in the fresh air and taking in the scenic views. Come along for a journey through winding paths and picturesque vistas, where we can recharge and refresh ourselves in the tranquility of nature.

After Work Cardio Hike: Mesa Loop
Date:
Wed, 09/03/2025
Time:
5:30 pm - 7:30 pm
Where:
Black Star Canyon Wilderness Park
Difficulty Rating:
4
Distance:
5 miles
Minimum Age:
18
Spaces Left:
Registration for this event opens at 8:00am on 08/19/2025
More Information  

Saturday, September 6, 2025

Wilderness Access Day: Black Star Canyon

Multi-Use Recreation
Wilderness Access Day: Black Star Canyon

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
Date:
Sat, 09/06/2025
Time:
8:00 am - 2:00 pm
Where:
Black Star Canyon Wilderness Park
Difficulty Rating:
Variable
Distance:
Variable
Minimum Age:
All Ages
Family Friendly:
Yes
Spaces Left:
Registration for this event opens at 8:00am on 08/22/2025
More Information  

Wilderness Access Day: Black Star Canyon, Equestrian

Equestrian
Wilderness Access Day: Black Star Canyon, Equestrian

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.  

Wilderness Access Day: Black Star Canyon, Equestrian
Date:
Sat, 09/06/2025
Time:
8:00 am - 2:00 pm
Where:
Black Star Canyon Wilderness Park
Difficulty Rating:
Variable
Distance:
Variable
Minimum Age:
All Ages
Family Friendly:
Yes
Spaces Left:
Registration for this event opens at 8:00am on 08/22/2025
More Information  

Friday, September 12, 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:
Fri, 09/12/2025
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 8:00am on 08/27/2025
More Information  

Sunday, September 14, 2025

Early Morning Double Loop Hike: Baker Canyon

Hiking & Fitness
Early Morning Double Loop Hike: Baker Canyon

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.

Early Morning Double Loop Hike: Baker Canyon
Date:
Sun, 09/14/2025
Time:
7:00 am - 10:00 am
Where:
Black Star Canyon Wilderness Park
Difficulty Rating:
4
Distance:
7 miles
Minimum Age:
18
Spaces Left:
Registration for this event opens at 8:00am on 08/30/2025
More Information  

Saturday, September 20, 2025

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, 09/20/2025
Time:
4:00 pm - 6:30 pm
Where:
Black Star Canyon Wilderness Park
Difficulty Rating:
2
Distance:
2 miles
Minimum Age:
5
Family Friendly:
Yes
Spaces Left:
Registration for this event opens at 12:00am on 09/05/2025
More Information  

Nighttime Bugs: Baker Staging Area

Interpretive
Nighttime Bugs: Baker Staging Area

Join us for this evening program as we explore biodiversity at the local level with that most diverse group of organisms, the insects! Taking advantage of the fact that UV light is highly visible to most insects, we will attract them by using black-lights (low energy/low frequency UV lights). We can then examine them up close, record the different types (and their numbers). Don’t forget your camera as you’ll see creatures that are normally buzzing around, but not highly visible. You will be able to help us document what we find.

Reviewing the 1-through-5 Difficulty Ratings will help you evaluate your readiness to participate in this level-1 activity on the land. Please visit our FAQ page for answers to activity specific questions you may have prior to registering.

Nighttime Bugs: Baker Staging Area
Date:
Sat, 09/20/2025
Time:
7:00 pm - 9:00 pm
Where:
Black Star Canyon Wilderness Park
Difficulty Rating:
1
Minimum Age:
7
Spaces Left:
Registration for this event opens at 8:00am on 09/05/2025
More Information  
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