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

Tuesday, July 1, 2025

Evening Hike on Hicks Haul Road

Hiking & Fitness
Evening Hike on Hicks Haul Road

Enjoy an evening hike through stunning rock formations and fragrant native plants as you listen to the sounds of nature. During this hike in the Irvine Ranch Open Space, you may travel at various hiking speeds based on your comfort level.  This out-and-back program travels 3.5 miles round trip up to scenic Loma Ridge and back down. Please bring a red-tinted flashlight as the return portion of the hike may be after sunset.

Evening Hike on Hicks Haul Road
Date:
Tue, 07/01/2025
Time:
6:00 pm - 7:30 pm
Where:
Limestone Canyon Nature Preserve
Difficulty Rating:
3
Distance:
3.5 miles
Minimum Age:
12
Spaces Left:
Registration has closed.
More Information  

Wednesday, July 2, 2025

Early Morning Hike: Gypsum Canyon Wilderness

Hiking & Fitness
Early Morning Hike: Gypsum Canyon Wilderness

Come explore 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:
Wed, 07/02/2025
Time:
6:30 am - 9:30 am
Where:
Gypsum Canyon Wilderness
Difficulty Rating:
4
Distance:
6.5 miles
Minimum Age:
18
Spaces Left:
Registration has closed.
More Information  

Tot Trails

Interpretive
Interpretive

Explore the natural wonders of Peters Canyon Regional Park with OC Parks! Join us on the first Wednesday of each month for a variety of kid friendly hikes and talks.

This program will begin outside the park office, near the flagpole. Program content is tailored for ages 2 to 6, but all are welcome to attend. Water, comfortable attire and closed-toe shoes are recommended. Strollers are permitted on the walk, but please be aware this walk will be on non-paved trail surfaces.

Inclement weather may cancel the program.

The program is free and parking is $3 per vehicle.

Advance registration is required.

For questions, please contact Resource Specialist Shelly Marshall at shelly.marshall@ocparks.com.

Tot Trails
Date:
Wed, 07/02/2025
Time:
10:00 am - 11:00 am
Where:
Peters Canyon Regional Park
Difficulty Rating:
1
Minimum Age:
All Ages
Family Friendly:
Yes
Spaces Left:
Full
More Information  

Adaptation Spotlight: Bioluminescence and UV Light

Interpretive
Adaptation Spotlight: Bioluminescence and UV Light

Discover the science behind bioluminescence and ultraviolet (UV) light, and how different animals and plants use these glowing abilities for survival, communication, and beauty. We’ll see how flowers appear to pollinators in UV, explore plankton under a microscope, and finish with a hands-on art activity by painting your own glow in the dark painting to take home.

Age: 7 or older. Participants under 18 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian.

Location: Nix Nature Center, Laguna Coast Wilderness Park (18751 Laguna Canyon Road, Laguna Beach 92651, East side of Laguna Canyon Rd/SR-133).

Parking: $3/car at Nix Nature Center parking lot. Parking is limited, carpooling is encouraged.

Difficulty Rating: 2/5

Materials: Participants must bring plenty of water, closed-toed shoes, and sun protection.

Safety precautions and protocols:

Advanced registration required. Every individual, including children, must be registered. Register here.
Group sizes are minimized for safety purposes. For group registrations or questions please email volunteer@lagunacanyon.org
Participants must individually sign a waiver at the beginning of the program. For participants under 18, a parent or guardian must sign the waiver.
To protect all employees, volunteers, and participants, please do not attend if you are not feeling well, have symptoms of illness or have been in contact with someone who was ill.
Contact volunteer@lagunacanyon.org or shelbi.richardson@ocparks.com with any questions.

Weather, including high temperatures and wet or muddy trail conditions, may lead to cancellation of this event.

Adaptation Spotlight: Bioluminescence and UV Light
Date:
Wed, 07/02/2025
Time:
3:00 pm - 4:30 pm
Where:
Laguna Coast Wilderness Park
Difficulty Rating:
1
Minimum Age:
7
More Information  

After Work Fitness Hike on Paved Hicks Haul Road

Hiking & Fitness
After Work Fitness Hike on Paved Hicks Haul Road

Join us every Wednesday night in OC Parks’ Irvine Ranch Open Space for a fitness-focused hike on the paved Hicks Haul Road. During the spring, summer and fall, hikers will enjoy wonderful sunset views and a panoramic overview of Orange County. This hike travels about 3.5 miles, up to the top of Loma Ridge and back down. The hike is conducted at an average of 3-3.5 miles per hour, but you may travel a bit faster or slower, at a walk, run, or jog depending on your comfort level. Most participants finish the route in about 1 hour. Because of the paved surface of the road, you may wear regular running or walking shoes. Trail shoes are fine, but not required. Please bring adequate water.

After Work Fitness Hike on Paved Hicks Haul Road
Date:
Wed, 07/02/2025
Time:
6:00 pm - 7:30 pm
Where:
Limestone Canyon Nature Preserve
Difficulty Rating:
3
Distance:
3.5 miles
Minimum Age:
16
Spaces Left:
Registration has closed.
More Information  

Thursday, July 3, 2025

Thursday Morning Trek: Quail Hill

Hiking & Fitness
Thursday Morning Trek: Quail Hill

This week in the Irvine Open Space Preserve, we’ll be in Quail Hill, once part of the historic Irvine cattle ranch. The hike is seven and a half miles with some climbing but rewards you with fantastic views overlooking Laguna Canyon and many Irvine locales. Please bring water, a trail snack, sunscreen, hat and any other necessary equipment to keep you safe on the trail. Get your boots out and register to hike the Quail Trail and Shady Canyon singletrack trails.

Thursday Morning Trek: Quail Hill
Date:
Thu, 07/03/2025
Time:
7:00 am - 10:30 am
Where:
Quail Hill
Difficulty Rating:
4
Distance:
7.5 miles
Minimum Age:
16
Spaces Left:
1 of 20
More Information  

Arts at the Oaks: Nature Journaling

Interpretive
Interpretive

Nature journaling is a wonderful tool for making observations, creating lasting memories and developing deeper connections with the world around us. This session will cover the basics of art theory and practices, journal anatomy and maximizing your senses.

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

The program is free and parking is $3 per vehicle.

Advance registration required.

Inclement weather will cancel the program.

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

Arts at the Oaks: Nature Journaling
Date:
Thu, 07/03/2025
Time:
8:00 am - 10:00 am
Where:
Santiago Oaks Regional Park
Difficulty Rating:
1
Minimum Age:
10
Spaces Left:
9 of 15
More Information  

Open Space Invaders: Invasive Plant Removal at Agua Chinon

Stewardship
Open Space Invaders: Invasive Plant Removal at Agua Chinon

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.

Open Space Invaders: Invasive Plant Removal at Agua Chinon
Date:
Thu, 07/03/2025
Time:
8:00 am - 11:00 am
Where:
Limestone Canyon Nature Preserve
Difficulty Rating:
3
Distance:
0 miles
Minimum Age:
18
Spaces Left:
4 of 4
More Information  

Evening Hike on Hicks Haul Road

Hiking & Fitness
Evening Hike on Hicks Haul Road

Enjoy an evening hike through stunning rock formations and fragrant native plants as you listen to the sounds of nature. During this hike in the Irvine Open Space Preserve, you may travel at various hiking speeds based on your comfort level.  This out-and-back program travels 3.5 miles round trip up to scenic Loma Ridge and back down. Please bring a red-tinted flashlight as the return portion of the hike may be after sunset.

Evening Hike on Hicks Haul Road
Date:
Thu, 07/03/2025
Time:
6:00 pm - 7:30 pm
Where:
Irvine Open Space Preserve
Difficulty Rating:
3
Distance:
3.5 miles
Minimum Age:
12
Spaces Left:
10 of 25
More Information  

Friday, July 4, 2025

Early Morning 4th of July Hike to The Sinks: Limestone Canyon

Hiking & Fitness
Early Morning 4th of July Hike to The Sinks: Limestone Canyon

Celebrate the 4th of July with us on this morning hike through beautiful Limestone Canyon Nature Preserve, part of OC Parks’ Irvine Ranch Open Space. You’ll be rewarded with a spectacular view of The Sinks as well as sweeping views of Orange County and the Santa Ana Mountains. This hike involves steep climbs and descents on both double and single-track trails.

Please note that the route for this hike may be shortened or altered due to trail conditions or adverse weather.

Early Morning 4th of July Hike to The Sinks: Limestone Canyon
Date:
Fri, 07/04/2025
Time:
6:30 am - 10:30 am
Where:
Limestone Canyon Nature Preserve
Difficulty Rating:
5
Distance:
10 miles
Minimum Age:
18
Spaces Left:
Full
More Information  

Independence Day Fireworks Night Hike

Interpretive
Independence Day Fireworks Night Hike

Join us for what’s sure to be an exciting evening of watching the fireworks from atop the hills in Irvine’s Open Space. This is a challenging hike geared toward experienced hikers with appropriate hiking shoes. Come and enjoy a little nighttime in the wilderness and celebrate our country’s independence. Flashlights are not needed by most participants, only low power ones with red LEDs or filters should be used if necessary in order to preserve night vision.

Bring a pad (kneeling pads work well) or blanket, which you can carry up the trail, to sit on while watching the fireworks. The viewing location that we will be using is on an incline, it is too steep for chairs. Hiking poles are recommended; bring binoculars to watch the fireworks. Wear appropriate clothing layers, it will be warm hiking up and cool while watching the fireworks.

Reviewing the 1-through-5 Difficulty Ratings will help you evaluate your readiness to participate in this level-4 activity on the land.

Independence Day Fireworks Night Hike
Date:
Fri, 07/04/2025
Time:
6:45 pm - 9:30 pm
Where:
Orchard Hills
Difficulty Rating:
4
Distance:
4 miles
Minimum Age:
12
Spaces Left:
Full
More Information  

Saturday, July 5, 2025

Wilderness Access Day: Black Star Canyon

Special Events
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, 07/05/2025
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:
102 of 200
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, 07/05/2025
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:
Full
More Information  

Upper Newport Bay Habitat Stewards

Stewardship
Upper Newport Bay Habitat Stewards

Join Upper Newport Bay Nature Preserve staff and volunteers in enhancing the Bay’s habitat for local wildlife. Activities may include non-native plant removal, planting natives, watering, trash cleanup, and Butterfly Garden maintenance. No experience is necessary; please bring a hat, sunscreen, snacks, refillable water bottle, etc. Water and tools are provided.

Minors ages 16 and younger must have a legal guardian present at all times.

The program and parking are free. Adverse weather will cancel the event.

Space is limited, so please register to reserve your space (especially for groups.) Walk-ins are welcome but will be accepted based on availability.

Upper Newport Bay Habitat Stewards
Date:
Sat, 07/05/2025
Time:
9:00 am - 11:00 am
Where:
Upper Newport Bay
Difficulty Rating:
1
Minimum Age:
8
Spaces Left:
42 of 50
More Information  

Family Hike: Round Canyon

Interpretive
Family Hike: Round Canyon

Enjoy nature with friends and family in Round Canyon. We hike along a fairly flat trail as we watch for red-tailed hawks and mule deer. This activity originates in the City of Irvine and travels into OC Parks’ Irvine Ranch Open Space. The hike averages 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 and level hike. Wear comfortable clothes and sturdy shoes and bring water for the hike.

Family Hike: Round Canyon
Date:
Sat, 07/05/2025
Time:
5:00 pm - 7:30 pm
Where:
Irvine Open Space Preserve
Difficulty Rating:
2
Distance:
2.5 miles
Minimum Age:
5
Family Friendly:
Yes
Spaces Left:
12 of 20
More Information  

Parks After Dark

Interpretive
Interpretive

We love the nightlife! Explore the landscape of Santiago Oaks Regional Park as we set out to search for the nighttime critters that call this park home. From humble toads to graceful owls, you never know what you’ll see!

The program will begin at the Santiago Oaks nature center. Dressing in layers, wearing sturdy footwear, and bringing water are recommended. Red-tinted flashlights are highly encouraged. This hike is not recommended for very small children or strollers. Children must be accompanied by a parent/guardian during the program.

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

Advance registration is required.

For questions, please contact resource specialist Shelly Marshall at shelly.marshall@ocparks.com.

Parks After Dark
Date:
Sat, 07/05/2025
Time:
8:00 pm - 10:00 pm
Where:
Santiago Oaks Regional Park
Difficulty Rating:
2
Minimum Age:
12
Spaces Left:
Full
More Information  

Sunday, July 6, 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, 07/06/2025
Time:
6:30 am - 9:30 am
Where:
Black Star Canyon Wilderness Park
Difficulty Rating:
4
Distance:
7 miles
Minimum Age:
18
Spaces Left:
Full
More Information  

Intermediate Mountain Bike Ride from Irvine to Limestone Canyon

Mountain Biking
Intermediate Mountain Bike Ride from Irvine to Limestone Canyon

We start our ride through OC Parks’ Irvine Ranch Open Space on the paved Hicks Haul Road, the extension of Jeffrey Rd north of Portola Pkwy. As we warm up on the climb to the top of the road, we enjoy increasingly beautiful views over Irvine. We then follow Loma Ridge to the East, with fantastic vistas of Orange County, the surrounding wildlands, and even Catalina Island on clear days. From Loma Ridge, we descend on a single track to Box Springs which provides year-round water for wildlife like deer.

After the springs, we continue to the Sinks, Orange County’s own “Grand Canyon,” where we enjoy our snacks during a short break. On our way back, we ride along Limestone Ridge, a fun singletrack that leads us towards the Augustine Staging area, enjoying views of Saddleback and Santiago Canyon. From there we will climb back up to Loma Ridge, and then coast back down on the paved Hicks Haul Road to our starting point. Motorized recreation vehicles of any class or type are not permitted for use in the Nature Preserve.

Intermediate Mountain Bike Ride from Irvine to Limestone Canyon
Date:
Sun, 07/06/2025
Time:
7:00 am - 10:30 am
Where:
Limestone Canyon Nature Preserve
Difficulty Rating:
4
Distance:
16 miles
Minimum Age:
18
Spaces Left:
4 of 15
More Information  

Demonstration Garden Maintenance: Native Seed Farm

Stewardship
Demonstration Garden Maintenance: Native Seed Farm

Visitors to IRC’s Native Seed Farm are first greeted by our Demonstration Garden, providing inspiration for regionally suitable plant gardens. Our garden hosts a variety of native plant species which support a healthy local ecosystem!

IRC Volunteers are invited to help at our monthly Garden Maintenance Day! Our tasks each day are to be determined, but we’ll be tackling whatever jobs are a top priority to keep our Garden teeming with native plant life. Weeding, clearing, cutting, digging, watering, whatever it takes! Activities may include bending, stooping, crouching, squatting, long periods of standing, reaching, pulling, grabbing, and pushing.

Demonstration Garden Maintenance: Native Seed Farm
Date:
Sun, 07/06/2025
Time:
7:30 am - 11:00 am
Where:
Native Seed Farm OCP
Difficulty Rating:
2
Minimum Age:
18
Spaces Left:
7 of 10
More Information  

Native Plant and Wildflower Hike

Interpretive
Native Plant and Wildflower Hike

Come join Laguna Canyon Foundation Volunteer naturalists in partnership with OC Parks to learn about the seasonal life of California Native Plants on this enjoyable 2.5-mile hike (175-ft. elevation gain) over moderately uneven terrain.

Age: 12 or older. Participants under 18 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian.

Location: James Dilley Preserve, Laguna Coast Wilderness Park (I-5 or 405 south to 133 south to stoplight at 73 toll road; and make a U-turn, go 1 block. Dilley is on the right.).

Parking: $3/car at James Dilley Preserve parking lot. Parking is limited, carpooling is encouraged.

Difficulty Rating: 2/5

Materials: Participants must bring plenty of water, closed-toed shoes, and sun protection. Hiking poles are recommended.

Safety precautions and protocols:

Advanced registration required. Every individual, including children, must be registered. Register here.
Group sizes are minimized for safety purposes. For group registrations or questions please email volunteer@lagunacanyon.org
Participants must individually sign a waiver at the beginning of the program. For participants under 18, a parent or guardian must sign the waiver.
To protect all employees, volunteers, and participants, please do not attend if you are not feeling well, have symptoms of illness or have been in contact with someone who was ill.
Contact volunteer@lagunacanyon.org with any questions.

Weather, including high temperatures and wet or muddy trail conditions, may lead to cancellation of this event.

Native Plant and Wildflower Hike
Date:
Sun, 07/06/2025
Time:
8:00 am - 10:30 am
Where:
Laguna Coast Wilderness Park
Difficulty Rating:
2
Minimum Age:
12
More Information  
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