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 9 Events

Saturday, April 20, 2024

Wildflower Hike

Interpretive
Wildflower Hike

The heavy rains of winter have lifted and revealed a beautiful bouquet of California wildflowers. Join us for a casual hike along Peters Canyon’s North Loop and Cactus Point Trails with beautiful views of the reservoir. Along the way, we will peruse the petals of some of our favorite blooms currently sprouting this spring season along with some of the year-round favorites.

The walk will begin at the front of the Ranger Station, located near the parking lot, and travel approximately 3 miles.

Walk-ins are welcome, but registration is recommended.

Children must be accompanied by a parent/guardian during the program and strollers are not recommended. Sun protection, wearing sturdy footwear, and bringing water are strongly encouraged.

Inclement weather will cancel the program.

The program is free and parking is $5 per vehicle.

For questions, please contact Resource Specialist, Shelly Marshall at (714) 973-6625 or shelly.marshall@ocparks.com.

Wildflower Hike
Date:
Sat, 04/20/2024
Time:
2:00 PM - 3:45 PM
Where:
Peters Canyon Regional Park
Difficulty Rating:
3
Minimum Age:
12
Spaces Left:
Full
More Information  

Monday, April 22, 2024

Discover Hidden Canyons: Round Canyon

Interpretive
Discover Hidden Canyons: Round Canyon

Discover the hidden canyons and trails found in Round Canyon, part of OC Parks’ Irvine Ranch Open Space. These seldom hiked trails offer fantastic vista views, wildflowers, secluded oasis of oaks, and rising rocky outcrops. Come take a stroll along the trails to discover the hidden gems of Orange County. We will listen to tales how the geology was formed underfoot to tales of the plants and animals that call these protected habitats home. Please wear comfortable clothes and shoes for our hike as well as bring proper sun protection and water.

Discover Hidden Canyons: Round Canyon
Date:
Mon, 04/22/2024
Time:
8:30 AM - 11:00 AM
Where:
Limestone Canyon Nature Preserve
Difficulty Rating:
2
Distance:
2.5 miles
Minimum Age:
12
Spaces Left:
13 of 20
More Information  

Wildflowers Hike in Santiago Oaks Regional Park

Interpretive
Wildflowers Hike in Santiago Oaks Regional Park

Hiking in spring and early summer is a treasure hunt of color as wildflowers are abloom in the Santiago Oaks Regional Park. Get away from everyday life as you breathe in the crisp morning air and enjoy the invigorating rolling hills of Santiago Oaks Regional Park. Your heart healthy adventure will inspire awe as you witness the beautiful wildflowers and the stunning Santiago Oaks vistas. We will make periodic stops to identify some of our local wildflowers and plants. The trail is uneven in places so wear sturdy shoes.

Wildflowers Hike in Santiago Oaks Regional Park
Date:
Mon, 04/22/2024
Time:
10:00 AM - 11:30 AM
Where:
Santiago Oaks Regional Park
Difficulty Rating:
2
Distance:
1 miles
Minimum Age:
14
Spaces Left:
13 of 15
More Information  

Friday, April 26, 2024

Nature Journaling: Wildflowers

Interpretive
Nature Journaling: Wildflowers

Nature journaling is a wonderful tool to make observations, create lasting memories, and foster a deeper connection with nature. Each session will cover the basics of nature journaling, including basic art principles and journal anatomy. Monthly prompts will help guide your eyes and ears to the wonders in nature.

Bring a nature journal and your own art materials such as pencils, pens, or watercolors. A portable chair is recommended along with sun protection, water and snacks. Be prepared to move along the trail a short distance and sit to document the beauty around you.

This program is geared for ages 12 and up. No experience necessary! We will begin outside of the Peter and Mary Muth Interpretive Center.

The program and parking are free. Advance registration required.

Rain or adverse weather will cancel the program.

Nature Journaling: Wildflowers
Date:
Fri, 04/26/2024
Time:
9:00 AM - 11:00 AM
Where:
Upper Newport Bay
Difficulty Rating:
1
Minimum Age:
12
Spaces Left:
1 of 15
More Information  

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:
12 of 20
More Information  

Friday, May 10, 2024

Fantastic Flora

Interpretive
Fantastic Flora

Discover what’s popping up in color on the Irvine Ranch! The annual wildflowers are giving a nice showing along the trails this year. Let’s search for the rainbow as we take an evening stroll along the land.

Fantastic Flora
Date:
Fri, 05/10/2024
Time:
6:00 PM - 7:30 PM
Where:
Irvine Open Space Preserve
Difficulty Rating:
1
Distance:
2 miles
Minimum Age:
12
Spaces Left:
Registration for this event opens at 8:00am on 04/25/2024
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  

Monday, June 10, 2024

Discover Hidden Canyons: Black Star

Interpretive
Discover Hidden Canyons: Black Star

Discover the hidden canyons and trails found in Black Star Canyon, part of OC Parks’ Irvine Ranch Open Space. These seldom-hiked trails offer fantastic vista views, wildflowers, secluded oasis of oaks, and rising rocky outcrops. Come take a stroll along the trails to discover the hidden gems of Orange County. We will listen to tales of how the geology was formed underfoot to tales of the plants and animals that call these protected habitats home. Please wear comfortable clothes and shoes for our hike as well as proper sun protection and, please bring plenty of water.

Discover Hidden Canyons: Black Star
Date:
Mon, 06/10/2024
Time:
8:30 AM - 11:00 AM
Where:
Black Star Canyon Wilderness Park
Difficulty Rating:
2
Distance:
3.5 miles
Minimum Age:
12
Spaces Left:
Registration for this event opens at 8:00am on 05/26/2024
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