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.

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Found 670 Events

Thursday, September 12, 2013

Shhh…Hike, Look and Listen

Hiking & Fitness
Shhh…Hike, Look and Listen

Would you like to end your day walking quietly through open spaces and wildflowers under the evening sky? Shed the day’s repetitions and join us at dusk for a quiet, meditative “slow walk” into Baker or Black Star Canyon, mindful of all that is happening around us. Wear sturdy shoes and comfortable clothing, and be prepared for cooler evening temperatures in the canyon. Bring water and flashlights for this tranquil two-hour evening program.

Please review the Difficulty Ratings on the brown banner above before registering. Understanding the 1-through-5 ratings system will help you evaluate your readiness to participate in this level-2 activity on the land.

Shhh…Hike, Look and Listen
Date:
Thu, 09/12/2013
Time:
6:00 PM - 8:00 PM
Where:
Black Star Canyon Wilderness Park
Difficulty Rating:
2
Minimum Age:
18
Spaces Left:
Registration has closed.
More Information  

Thursday, October 24, 2013

Night Hike

Interpretive
Interpretive

Enjoy the beauty of a quiet evening in the canyons while learning the techniques of hiking at night without flashlights, using only your night vision. Note that the moon will be new (i.e. not present) so this 3-mile hike with an 1800-foot elevation change is recommended for experienced hikers who would like to learn night hiking techniques. In order to preserve our night vision, flashlights will not be used. Please bring a flashlight with red lens or red LEDs for safety reasons, and a baseball-type hat.

Baker Canyon is the perfect location to observe the sights and sounds of twilight. You may encounter tarantulas, darkling beetles, coyotes, bobcats, bats, and nocturnal birds like owls and poorwills. Learn about the adaptations of nighttime creatures, observe the night sky, and experience the rich sensory tapestry of nighttime in the wilderness.

Please review the Difficulty Ratings on the brown banner above before registering. Understanding the 1-through-5 ratings system will help you evaluate your readiness to participate in this level-3 activity on the land.

Night Hike
Date:
Thu, 10/24/2013
Time:
6:30 PM - 9:00 PM
Where:
Black Star Canyon Wilderness Park
Difficulty Rating:
3
Distance:
3 miles
Minimum Age:
12
Spaces Left:
Registration has closed.
More Information  

Sunday, December 8, 2013

Cancelled Due to Forecasted Weather- Buck Gully Upper Loop Sunset Hike

Hiking & Fitness
Cancelled Due to Forecasted Weather- Buck Gully Upper Loop Sunset Hike

With rain strongly forecasted for the weekend, we find it necessary to cancel several upcoming activities. While we recognize that actual rainfall may vary throughout the trail system, muddy conditions on the trail make it vulnerable to negative impacts and easily compromises your safety.  We regret, therefore, that this activity has been cancelled.  Thank you for your support of the land.

Explore the richness of Newport Beach’s Buck Gully Reserve as we hike during a beautiful fall evening. The stream is running, the warm autumn sun is descending, making for a fantastic sunset hike in a natural oasis amid the suburban surroundings. We’ll walk along San Joaquin Hills Road for a short distance which is a ridge overlooking Buck Gully and then drop down into the canyon on the Bobcat Trail and loop back through the upper end of the gully along the Buck Gully Trail.

PLEASE NOTE: Poison oak grows in abundance throughout the entire Buck Gully Reserve trail system.

Cancelled Due to Forecasted Weather- Buck Gully Upper Loop Sunset Hike
Date:
Sun, 12/08/2013
Time:
3:30 PM - 5:30 PM
Where:
Buck Gully Reserve
Difficulty Rating:
3
Distance:
4 miles
Minimum Age:
8
Spaces Left:
Full
More Information  

Monday, January 6, 2014

Cancelled Due to Fire Watch-Advanced After Dark Mountain Bike Ride on Fremont Loop

Mountain Biking
Cancelled Due to Fire Watch-Advanced After Dark Mountain Bike Ride on Fremont Loop

Cancelled due to Fire Watch. This is a Fast paced Mountain Bike ride for adults who would like to join Conservancy Volunteers on an evening ride through Fremont canyon.
The trail includes natural hazards like sand, tree roots, ruts, rocks, and several tough, steep hills. Experienced riders only in excellent physical shape .  PLEASE NOTE: Elevation gain is approximately 4000ft over 15+ miles.

Cancelled Due to Fire Watch-Advanced After Dark Mountain Bike Ride on Fremont Loop
Date:
Mon, 01/06/2014
Time:
6:00 PM - 8:30 PM
Where:
Fremont Canyon Nature Preserve
Difficulty Rating:
5
Distance:
16 miles
Minimum Age:
18
Spaces Left:
Full
More Information  

Thursday, January 16, 2014

Cancelled Due to Fire Watch: Slow-Paced Fitness Hike on Paved Hicks Haul Road

Hiking & Fitness
Hiking & Fitness

Cancelled Due to Fire Watch

Enjoy an evening fitness hike through stunning rock formations and fragrant native plants as you listen to the sounds of nature. During the winter, the hike will be under the stars with a panoramic night lights overview of Orange County.

This hike is done ‘at your own pace’ as a walk, jog or run (speed range typically 2.5 to 3.5 mph) so is suitable for beginners who are just starting their fitness program as well as more experienced hikers who are looking for a workout.

This “out-and-back” hike travels the 3.5 mile route to scenic Loma Ridge (450′ elevation gain) and back down with most participants finishing the route in about 1.5 hours.

Family friendly but children must be closely supervised by an adult and either able to hike with the group or carried by a strong adult. Strollers OK but contact office for information first.

Cancelled Due to Fire Watch:  Slow-Paced Fitness Hike on Paved Hicks Haul Road
Date:
Thu, 01/16/2014
Time:
6:00 PM - 8:00 PM
Where:
Irvine Open Space Preserve
Difficulty Rating:
3
Distance:
3.5 miles
Minimum Age:
12
Family Friendly:
Yes
Spaces Left:
Registration has closed.
More Information  

Thursday, January 30, 2014

Slow-Paced Fitness Hike on Paved Hicks Haul Road

Hiking & Fitness
Hiking & Fitness

Enjoy an evening fitness hike through stunning rock formations and fragrant native plants as you listen to the sounds of nature. During the winter, the hike will be under the stars with a panoramic night lights overview of Orange County.

This hike is done ‘at your own pace’ as a walk, jog or run (speed range typically 2.5 to 3.5 mph) so is suitable for beginners who are just starting their fitness program as well as more experienced hikers who are looking for a workout.

This “out-and-back” hike travels the 3.5 mile route to scenic Loma Ridge (450′ elevation gain) and back down with most participants finishing the route in about 1.5 hours.

Family friendly but children must be closely supervised by an adult and either able to hike with the group or carried by a strong adult. Strollers OK but contact office for information first.

Slow-Paced Fitness Hike on Paved Hicks Haul Road
Date:
Thu, 01/30/2014
Time:
6:00 PM - 8:00 PM
Where:
Irvine Open Space Preserve
Difficulty Rating:
3
Distance:
3.5 miles
Minimum Age:
12
Family Friendly:
Yes
Spaces Left:
Registration has closed.
More Information  

Friday, January 31, 2014

Night Mercury Hike in Baker Canyon

Interpretive
Night Mercury Hike in Baker Canyon

Enjoy the beauty of a quiet evening in the canyons on this fascinating three-mile hike. The hike will begin with a short presentation on natural and man-made events that may occur in the night sky, and we will attempt to see the elusive planet Mercury.

Baker Canyon is the perfect location to observe the sights and sounds of twilight. You may encounter tarantulas, darkling beetles, coyotes, bobcats, bats, and nocturnal birds like owls and poorwills. Learn about the adaptations of nighttime creatures, observe the night sky, and experience the rich sensory tapestry of nighttime in the wilderness.

Note that the moon will not be present so this hike is recommended for experienced night hikers. In order to preserve our night vision, flashlights will not be used. Please bring a flashlight with a red lens or red LEDs for safety reasons.

Please review the Difficulty Ratings on the brown banner above before registering. Understanding the 1-through-5 ratings system will help you evaluate your readiness to participate in this level-3 activity on the land.

Night Mercury Hike in Baker Canyon
Date:
Fri, 01/31/2014
Time:
5:30 PM - 8:00 PM
Where:
Black Star Canyon Wilderness Park
Difficulty Rating:
3
Distance:
4 miles
Minimum Age:
12
Spaces Left:
Full
More Information  

Thursday, February 6, 2014

Cancelled Due to Weather – Slow-Paced Fitness Hike on Paved Hicks Haul Road

Hiking & Fitness
Cancelled Due to Weather - Slow-Paced Fitness Hike on Paved Hicks Haul Road

Enjoy an evening fitness hike through stunning rock formations and fragrant native plants as you listen to the sounds of nature. During the winter, the hike will be under the stars with a panoramic night lights overview of Orange County.

This hike is done ‘at your own pace’ as a walk, jog or run (speed range typically 2.5 to 3.5 mph) so is suitable for beginners who are just starting their fitness program as well as more experienced hikers who are looking for a workout.

This “out-and-back” hike travels the 3.5 mile route to scenic Loma Ridge (450′ elevation gain) and back down with most participants finishing the route in about 1.5 hours.

Family friendly but children must be closely supervised by an adult and either able to hike with the group or carried by a strong adult. Strollers OK but contact office for information first.

Cancelled Due to Weather - Slow-Paced Fitness Hike on Paved Hicks Haul Road
Date:
Thu, 02/06/2014
Time:
6:00 PM - 8:00 PM
Where:
Irvine Open Space Preserve
Difficulty Rating:
3
Distance:
3.5 miles
Minimum Age:
12
Family Friendly:
Yes
Spaces Left:
Registration has closed.
More Information  

Saturday, February 8, 2014

Family Hike- Round Canyon

Hiking & Fitness
Family Hike- Round Canyon

Enjoy nature with friends and family in Round Canyon. We will hike along a fairly flat trail as we watch for Red-tailed hawks and mule deer.

The hike will average 2-3 miles round trip at an easy pace with a medium level of interpretation. This program is for participants who would like a slower paced level hike. Wear comfortable clothes and sturdy shoes, and bring water for the hike. Be ready to enjoy the sounds and smells of the early evening.

Family Hike- Round Canyon
Date:
Sat, 02/08/2014
Time:
4:00 PM - 6:00 PM
Where:
Limestone Canyon Nature Preserve
Difficulty Rating:
2
Distance:
2.5 miles
Minimum Age:
6
Family Friendly:
Yes
Spaces Left:
Registration has closed.
More Information  

Sunday, February 9, 2014

Orchard Hills Sunset Hike

Hiking & Fitness
Hiking & Fitness

Come out and enjoy the evening with us on the Orchard Hills loop trail. This trail meanders through an active avocado orchard and provides fantastic ridge top views of Irvine and the Pacific coastline.

The three mile loop has several very steep climbs, but the hike is done at a moderate pace. The effort is rewarded with a beautiful, unobstructed sunset. Please bring water and wear sturdy shoes. This hike is not suitable for very young children.

Orchard Hills Sunset Hike
Date:
Sun, 02/09/2014
Time:
4:30 PM - 6:30 PM
Where:
Orchard Hills
Difficulty Rating:
3
Distance:
3 miles
Minimum Age:
12
Spaces Left:
Full
More Information  

Saturday, February 22, 2014

Buck Gully Upper Loop Sunset Hike

Hiking & Fitness
Buck Gully Upper Loop Sunset Hike

Explore the richness of Newport Beach’s Buck Gully Reserve as we hike during a beautiful, cool winter evening. The stream is running and the winter skies are clear, making for a fantastic sunset hike in a natural oasis amid the suburban surroundings. We’ll walk along San Joaquin Hills Road for a short distance which is a ridge overlooking Buck Gully and then drop down into the canyon on the Bobcat Trail and loop back through the upper end of the gully along the Buck Gully Trail.

PLEASE NOTE: Poison oak grows in abundance throughout the entire Buck Gully Reserve trail system.

Buck Gully Upper Loop Sunset Hike
Date:
Sat, 02/22/2014
Time:
5:00 PM - 7:00 PM
Where:
Buck Gully Reserve
Difficulty Rating:
3
Distance:
4 miles
Minimum Age:
8
Spaces Left:
Registration has closed.
More Information  

Thursday, February 27, 2014

Cancelled Due to Inclement Weather – Slow-Paced Fitness Hike on Paved Hicks Haul Road

Hiking & Fitness
Hiking & Fitness

Cancelled Due to Inclement Weather

Enjoy an evening fitness hike through stunning rock formations and fragrant native plants as you listen to the sounds of nature. During the winter, the hike will be under the stars with a panoramic night lights overview of Orange County.

This hike is done ‘at your own pace’ as a walk, jog or run (speed range typically 2.5 to 3.5 mph) so is suitable for beginners who are just starting their fitness program as well as more experienced hikers who are looking for a workout.

This “out-and-back” hike travels the 3.5 mile route to scenic Loma Ridge (450′ elevation gain) and back down with most participants finishing the route in about 1.5 hours.

Family friendly but children must be closely supervised by an adult and either able to hike with the group or carried by a strong adult. Strollers OK but contact office for information first.

Cancelled Due to Inclement Weather - Slow-Paced Fitness Hike on Paved Hicks Haul Road
Date:
Thu, 02/27/2014
Time:
6:00 PM - 8:00 PM
Where:
Irvine Open Space Preserve
Difficulty Rating:
3
Distance:
3.5 miles
Minimum Age:
12
Family Friendly:
Yes
Spaces Left:
Registration has closed.
More Information  

Saturday, March 1, 2014

Cancelled Due to Weather – Starry, Starry Night

Interpretive
Interpretive

Cancelled due to Weather

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 level hike. Wear comfortable clothes and sturdy shoes and bring water for the hike.

Cancelled Due to Weather - Starry, Starry Night
Date:
Sat, 03/01/2014
Time:
6:00 PM - 8:00 PM
Where:
Black Star Canyon Wilderness Park
Difficulty Rating:
2
Distance:
3.5 miles
Minimum Age:
6
Family Friendly:
Yes
Spaces Left:
Full
More Information  

Wednesday, March 12, 2014

Cancelled Due to Weather – Mid Week Hike- Bommer Canyon

Hiking & Fitness
Cancelled Due to Weather - Mid Week Hike- Bommer Canyon

The event is cancelled due to the predicted high winds and pending red flag warnings starting the evening of 3/11 and running into Wednesday 3/12, and your safety.

Recharge your batteries with a refreshing mid week hike through Bommer Canyon. This area was formerly a center for cattle operations that occurred in the San Joaquin Hills up until the late 1990s and is now being restored to native habitat.

This hike involves multiple steep climbs and descents, 2200+ feet of accumulated climbing elevation, but is done at a moderate pace, approx. 3 mph. Please bring plenty of water, and wear sturdy shoes. Hike distance is 10-12 miles.

All participants must carry their own water! Please come prepared with a pack, sturdy closed-toe hiking shoes or boots, sunscreen, first aid, and all other supplies to keep you safe and healthy on the trail for the half-day of being out in the wilderness area. Under-prepared participants may be denied access to the event! Children under the age of 18 must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian. Program may be cancelled or shortened due to adverse weather conditions.

Cancelled Due to Weather - Mid Week Hike- Bommer Canyon
Date:
Wed, 03/12/2014
Time:
8:00 AM - 1:00 PM
Where:
Bommer Canyon Preserve
Difficulty Rating:
4
Distance:
14 miles
Minimum Age:
12
Spaces Left:
Registration has closed.
More Information  

Cancelled Due to Weather – Yoga in Bommer Canyon

Hiking & Fitness
Cancelled Due to Weather - Yoga in Bommer Canyon

The event is cancelled due to the predicted high winds and pending red flag warnings starting the evening of 3/11 and running into Wednesday 3/12, and your safety.

Join us for this combination hiking and yoga program in Bommer Canyon. Participants will hike around a 1-mile loop, strolling through the local meadow and finding unity within nature. Then we will return to our yoga mats where we will be led in 45 to 60 minutes of guided yoga, as the canyon slowly warms up to the day.  Please wear comfortable clothes and bring a durable yoga mat to rest on the dirt. An extra blanket or padding is highly recommended. Some mornings are chilly, so dress in layers. Remember to wear sun protection for the hike such as a hat and sunscreen.

Cancelled Due to Weather - Yoga in Bommer Canyon
Date:
Wed, 03/12/2014
Time:
9:00 AM - 10:30 AM
Where:
Bommer Canyon Preserve
Difficulty Rating:
3
Distance:
1 miles
Minimum Age:
16
Spaces Left:
Registration has closed.
More Information  

Thursday, April 3, 2014

Slow-Paced Fitness Hike on Paved Hicks Haul Road

Hiking & Fitness
Slow-Paced Fitness Hike on Paved Hicks Haul Road

Enjoy an evening fitness hike through stunning rock formations and fragrant native plants as you listen to the sounds of nature.

This hike is done at your own pace as a walk, jog, or run (speed range typically 2.5 to 3.5 mph), so is suitable for beginners who are just starting their fitness program as well as more experienced hikers who are looking for a workout.

This out-and-back program travels the 3.5 mile route to scenic Loma Ridge (450′ elevation gain) and back down, with most participants completing the route in about 1.5 hours.

The hike is family-friendly, but children must be closely supervised by an adult and able to hike with the group, or be safely carried by a strong adult or secured in a jogging stroller.

Please review the Difficulty Ratings on the brown banner above before registering. Understanding the 1-through-5 ratings system will help you evaluate your readiness to participate in this level-3 activity on the land.

Slow-Paced Fitness Hike on Paved Hicks Haul Road
Date:
Thu, 04/03/2014
Time:
6:00 PM - 8:00 PM
Where:
Irvine Open Space Preserve
Difficulty Rating:
3
Distance:
3.5 miles
Minimum Age:
12
Family Friendly:
Yes
Spaces Left:
Registration has closed.
More Information  

Sunday, April 6, 2014

Buck Gully Reserve Upper Loop Evening Hike- Cancelled

Hiking & Fitness
Buck Gully Reserve Upper Loop Evening Hike- Cancelled

Program is cancelled.

Explore the richness of Newport Beach’s Buck Gully Reserve as we hike during a beautiful spring evening. The stream is running and the diverse plant life is growing and blooming, making for a fantastic evening hike in a natural oasis amid the suburban surroundings. For a short distance, we’ll walk along San Joaquin Hills Road which overlooks Buck Gully, and then drop down into the canyon on the Bobcat Trail and loop back through the upper end of the gully along the Buck Gully Trail.

PLEASE NOTE: Poison oak grows in abundance throughout the entire Buck Gully Reserve trail system. If you are susceptible to poison oak, please plan accordingly.

Please review the Difficulty Ratings on the brown banner above before registering. Understanding the 1-through-5 ratings system will help you evaluate your readiness to participate in this level-3 activity on the land.

Buck Gully Reserve Upper Loop Evening Hike- Cancelled
Date:
Sun, 04/06/2014
Time:
5:00 PM - 7:00 PM
Where:
Buck Gully Reserve
Difficulty Rating:
3
Distance:
4 miles
Minimum Age:
8
Spaces Left:
Full
More Information  

Thursday, April 10, 2014

Slow-Paced Fitness Hike on Paved Hicks Haul Road

Hiking & Fitness
Slow-Paced Fitness Hike on Paved Hicks Haul Road

Enjoy an evening fitness hike through stunning rock formations and fragrant native plants as you listen to the sounds of nature.

This hike is done at your own pace as a walk, jog, or run (speed range typically 2.5 to 3.5 mph), so is suitable for beginners who are just starting their fitness program as well as more experienced hikers who are looking for a workout.

This out-and-back program travels the 3.5 mile route to scenic Loma Ridge (450′ elevation gain) and back down, with most participants completing the route in about 1.5 hours.

The hike is family-friendly, but children must be closely supervised by an adult and able to hike with the group, or be safely carried by a strong adult or secured in a jogging stroller.

Please review the Difficulty Ratings on the brown banner above before registering. Understanding the 1-through-5 ratings system will help you evaluate your readiness to participate in this level-3 activity on the land.

Slow-Paced Fitness Hike on Paved Hicks Haul Road
Date:
Thu, 04/10/2014
Time:
6:00 PM - 8:00 PM
Where:
Irvine Open Space Preserve
Difficulty Rating:
3
Distance:
3.5 miles
Minimum Age:
12
Family Friendly:
Yes
Spaces Left:
Registration has closed.
More Information  

Friday, April 11, 2014

Celebrate Cultures in Nature – Earth Day

Hiking & Fitness
Hiking & Fitness

Discover unique historical tales about the Irvine Ranch Natural Landmarks as we celebrate different cultures together! Each month, a different culture and celebration will be highlighted, usually with the program presented in multiple languages which will allow for everyone to fully enjoy the beauty of the land.

This month we will focus on our beautiful green planet. Earth Day became an official celebration in 1970 but our earth has been celebrated long before that throughout the world. Come enjoy the sunset and moon rise during this evening hike as we celebrate Mother Earth!

Please review the Difficulty Ratings on the brown banner above before registering. Understanding the 1-through-5 ratings system will help you evaluate your readiness to participate in this level-3 activity on the land.

Celebrate Cultures in Nature - Earth Day
Date:
Fri, 04/11/2014
Time:
6:30 PM - 9:00 PM
Where:
Black Star Canyon Wilderness Park
Difficulty Rating:
3
Distance:
3.5 miles
Minimum Age:
12
Spaces Left:
Registration has closed.
More Information  

Sunday, April 13, 2014

Orchard Hills Sunset Hike

Hiking & Fitness
Hiking & Fitness

Come out and enjoy the evening with us on the Orchard Hills loop trail. This trail meanders through an active avocado orchard and provides fantastic ridge-top views of Irvine and the Pacific coastline.

The three-mile loop has several very steep climbs, but the hike is done at a moderate pace. The effort is rewarded with a beautiful, unobstructed sunset. Please bring water and wear sturdy shoes. This hike is not suitable for children under 12.

Please review the Difficulty Ratings on the banner above before registering. Understanding the 1-through-5 ratings system will help you evaluate your readiness to participate in this level-3 activity on the land.

Orchard Hills Sunset Hike
Date:
Sun, 04/13/2014
Time:
6:30 PM - 8:30 PM
Where:
Orchard Hills
Difficulty Rating:
3
Distance:
3 miles
Minimum Age:
12
Spaces Left:
Registration has closed.
More Information  
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