Activities

Found 359 Events

Monday, March 24, 2025

Monday Morning Super Trek: Limestone Canyon to Box Springs and the Sinks

Hiking & Fitness
Monday Morning Super Trek: Limestone Canyon to Box Springs and the Sinks

Come start your week with us on our Super Treks in the Landmarks. Join us as we explore Limestone Canyon, part of OC Parks’ Irvine Ranch Open Space. We will hike across East Loma and enjoy beautiful views of the surrounding hills, out to the coast, and of Irvine Lake. We will continue to Box Springs and the west side of the Sinks before making our return to the staging area. Please wear hiking shoes/boots and bring water, a trail snack, sunscreen, hat, and any other necessary equipment to keep you safe on the trail. Participants must be able to hike 11 miles with an elevation gain of 1800 feet at an average moving rate of 3 miles per hour.

Monday Morning Super Trek: Limestone Canyon to Box Springs and the Sinks
Date:
Mon, 03/24/2025
Time:
7:30 am - 12:00 pm
Where:
Limestone Canyon Nature Preserve
Difficulty Rating:
4
Distance:
11 miles
Minimum Age:
18
Spaces Left:
Registration for this event opens at 8:00am on 03/09/2025
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Equestrian Ride: Discover The Natural Wonders of Weir Canyon

Equestrian
Equestrian Ride: Discover The Natural Wonders of Weir Canyon

Be prepared to experience the beauty and wonder of Weir Canyon, part of OC Parks’ Irvine Ranch Open Space, steeped in history and lore, on this morning equestrian ride. The ride will travel through Weir Canyon, where the trail weaves its way through a beautiful oak woodland inhabited by deer, coyote, bobcat, and many different birds. You will travel the route of the Butterfield Stage and see a monument dedicated to the Mexican ox cart drivers. If time permits, we will climb to the Two Tower vista point to look at distant views. This ride travels on wide trails with several easy to moderate climbs. Equestrians who have trail riding experience and their own fit and able horse are welcome. You will need to transport your horse to the staging area. Owners of unshod horses, please note that footing will include areas of gravel and distances over asphalt pavement. Please bring water on the ride.

Equestrian Ride: Discover The Natural Wonders of Weir Canyon
Date:
Mon, 03/24/2025
Time:
10:00 am - 2:00 pm
Where:
Weir Canyon Nature Preserve
Difficulty Rating:
3
Distance:
5 miles
Minimum Age:
18
Spaces Left:
Registration for this event opens at 8:00am on 03/09/2025
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 Monday night for a fitness-focused hike on the paved Hicks Haul Road in the Irvine Open Space Preserve. 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 about 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:
Mon, 03/24/2025
Time:
6:00 pm - 7:30 pm
Where:
Irvine Open Space Preserve
Difficulty Rating:
3
Distance:
3.5 miles
Minimum Age:
16
Spaces Left:
Registration for this event opens at 8:00am on 03/09/2025
More Information  

Tuesday, March 25, 2025

Enjoy Nature’s Story, Vistas, and Special Places – Intro Hike Bommer Canyon to Butterfly Valley

Hiking & Fitness
Enjoy Nature's Story, Vistas, and Special Places - Intro Hike Bommer Canyon to Butterfly Valley

Join us as we explore the Irvine Open Space Preserve on this hike through Bommer and Shady Canyons. We’ll begin at the Cattle Camp, where ranch equipment of old still stands. After a steep ascent on the East Fork trail, we’ll make our way across part of Serrano Ridge and descend into Shady Canyon to the Butterfly Valley trail. Here, you’ll experience some of the most mature Coastal Sage Scrub in all of Orange County. After a short stop we’ll return the same way or loop around Fox Run Trail. Total round trip distance is 9 miles with an elevation gain of 1500 feet at an average moving rate of 2.5 miles per hour. All participants must carry their own water! Please come prepared with a pack, plenty of water, snacks, sturdy closed-toe hiking shoes or boots, sunscreen, first aid, and all other supplies to keep you safe and healthy on the trail. Under-prepared participants may be denied access to the event!

Enjoy Nature's Story, Vistas, and Special Places - Intro Hike Bommer Canyon to Butterfly Valley
Date:
Tue, 03/25/2025
Time:
7:30 am - 12:30 pm
Where:
Bommer Canyon Preserve
Difficulty Rating:
4
Distance:
9 miles
Minimum Age:
18
Spaces Left:
Registration for this event opens at 8:00am on 03/10/2025
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Tuesday Morning Fitness Hike on Paved Hicks Haul Road

Hiking & Fitness
Tuesday Morning Fitness Hike on Paved Hicks Haul Road

Ready for a workout? Forget the gym for the day and head outside! Join us for an exhilarating morning fitness hike on the paved Hicks Haul Road in OC Parks’ Irvine Ranch Open Space. This hike allows you to choose between a 3, 6, or 8 mile route, all of which are conducted at the speed of about 3.0 to 3.5 miles per hour. The footing on the asphalt paved road is smoother than dirt roads and single track trails normally found in Limestone Canyon Nature Preserve, but is beginning to show its age with cracks, crevices and an occasional dip. Otherwise, the terrain is smooth, so this is a great walk for anyone who wants a “wilderness experience” without getting dirty! The 6 and 8 mile routes experience two fairly steep ascents and descents. The 3 mile route takes you to the top of Loma Ridge and back down. Along the way, you will have sweeping views of much of Orange County and the Santa Ana Mountains. Various animals, like hawks, deer, and lizards are also frequently seen in this area.

Tuesday Morning Fitness Hike on Paved Hicks Haul Road
Date:
Tue, 03/25/2025
Time:
7:30 am - 10:30 am
Where:
Limestone Canyon Nature Preserve
Difficulty Rating:
3
Distance:
8 miles
Minimum Age:
16
Spaces Left:
Registration for this event opens at 8:00am on 03/10/2025
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Discovery Hike

Hiking & Fitness
Discovery Hike

Explore Aliso and Wood Canyons Wilderness Park with OC Parks and Laguna Canyon Foundation Volunteers, where you might see deer, bobcats, and hawks. Learn about acorn woodpeckers – the hippies of the bird world – and the wonderful ways of woodrats, as well as the peculiar nature of certain plants. Enjoy wildlife sounds, smells, and sights on this moderately-paced 5-mile hike on rocky terrain with less than 500 feet in elevation gain.

Age: 16 or older. Participants under 18 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian.

Location: Canyon View Staging Area, Aliso & Wood Canyons Wilderness Park. From Pacific Park/Canyon Vistas intersection, go northwest on Canyon Vistas. We will meet on the paved sidewalk easement leading toward Wood Canyon Trail.

Parking: Free neighborhood parking. Park legally (note street signs) on or near Canyon Vistas, preferably between Coastal Oak and Madia (22144 region of Canyon Vistas). Parking is limited, carpooling is encouraged.

Difficulty Rating: 3/5

Materials: Participants must bring 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.

Discovery Hike
Date:
Tue, 03/25/2025
Time:
8:30 am - 11:00 am
Where:
Aliso and Wood Canyons Wilderness Park
Difficulty Rating:
3
Minimum Age:
16
More Information  

Dripping Springs Trail Restoration

Stewardship
Dripping Springs Trail Restoration

Spend the morning watering and mulching Coast Live Oak seedlings within a beautiful oak woodland and then hike to Dripping Springs, a natural water source dripping out of an earthquake fault and down a gorgeous fern-covered rock face. Your work on the trail will benefit the rare plants and animals that this unique feature supports!

Dripping Springs Trail Restoration
Date:
Tue, 03/25/2025
Time:
9:00 am - 12:30 pm
Where:
Limestone Canyon Nature Preserve
Difficulty Rating:
3
Distance:
3.5 miles
Minimum Age:
18
Spaces Left:
Registration for this event opens at 8:00am on 03/10/2025
More Information  

Takedown Tuesdays: Weeding at the Native Seed Farm

Stewardship
Takedown Tuesdays: Weeding at the Native Seed Farm

Looking for a way to give back to nature this Spring? Come help us behind the scenes at the Irvine Ranch Conservancy’s one-of-a-kind Native Seed Farm! In this evening activity, attendees will learn about one to two (1-2) target species before assisting staff in weeding efforts around our native plant crops. Working with us at the Native Seed Farm is a great way to grow your community and cultivate knowledge about local plant and wildlife! Absolutely no experience or special equipment required!

Takedown Tuesdays: Weeding at the Native Seed Farm
Date:
Tue, 03/25/2025
Time:
5:00 pm - 6:30 pm
Where:
Native Seed Farm COI
Difficulty Rating:
3
Minimum Age:
14
Spaces Left:
Registration for this event opens at 8:00am on 03/10/2025
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:
Tue, 03/25/2025
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 for this event opens at 8:00am on 03/10/2025
More Information  

Wednesday, March 26, 2025

Hangman’s Tree Monument Hike: Orchard Hills

Hiking & Fitness
Hangman's Tree Monument Hike: Orchard Hills

Join us for a challenging and beautiful adventure as we hike to the Hangman’s Tree Monument on Loma Ridge. Hike distance is 6 miles and affords fantastic views along the way, spanning the Pacific coastline, San Gabriel peaks and the Santa Ana Mountains. Several very steep climbs and descents are part of this route. We’ll accumulate almost 1800 feet of climbing elevation.

Hangman's Tree Monument Hike: Orchard Hills
Date:
Wed, 03/26/2025
Time:
7:30 am - 10:30 am
Where:
Orchard Hills
Difficulty Rating:
4
Distance:
6 miles
Minimum Age:
18
Spaces Left:
Registration for this event opens at 8:00am on 03/11/2025
More Information  

Open Space Invaders: Invasive Plant Removal at Santiago Creek

Stewardship
Open Space Invaders: Invasive Plant Removal at Santiago Creek

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 Santiago Creek
Date:
Wed, 03/26/2025
Time:
8:30 am - 11:30 am
Where:
Fremont Canyon Nature Preserve
Difficulty Rating:
3
Distance:
0 miles
Minimum Age:
18
Spaces Left:
Registration for this event opens at 8:00am on 03/11/2025
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Seasonal Science Series: Intro to iNaturalist at the Butterfly Enhancement Project

Interpretive
Seasonal Science Series: Intro to iNaturalist at the Butterfly Enhancement Project

Join us for a hike related to current IRC projects focused on research, monitoring, and conservation.  The series will rotate through the landscape based on the season and projects.

For this series, we will spend the morning hiking along Limestone Canyon where we will look for plants and animals and learn how to identify them using the iNaturalist app.  For this activity you will need to download the free app on your smart phone BEFORE arriving to participate in the activity. We will stop at 2-3 butterfly plots for 5-10 minutes and using the app document the flora and fauna that we see.  After we will finish with a hike up to Dripping Springs, a natural water source dripping out of an earthquake fault and down a gorgeous fern-covered rock face.

Seasonal Science Series: Intro to iNaturalist at the Butterfly Enhancement Project
Date:
Wed, 03/26/2025
Time:
9:00 am - 12:30 pm
Where:
Limestone Canyon Nature Preserve
Difficulty Rating:
3
Distance:
3.5 miles
Minimum Age:
12
Spaces Left:
Registration for this event opens at 8:00am on 03/11/2025
More Information  

After Work Cardio Hike Airfield Loop in Red Rock Wilderness

Hiking & Fitness
After Work Cardio Hike Airfield Loop in Red Rock Wilderness

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 Airfield Loop in Red Rock Wilderness
Date:
Wed, 03/26/2025
Time:
5:30 pm - 7:30 pm
Where:
Red Rock Wilderness
Difficulty Rating:
4
Distance:
6 miles
Minimum Age:
18
Spaces Left:
Registration for this event opens at 8:00am on 03/11/2025
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, 03/26/2025
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 for this event opens at 8:00am on 03/11/2025
More Information  

Thursday, March 27, 2025

Thursday Morning Trek: Orchard Hills

Hiking & Fitness
Thursday Morning Trek: Orchard Hills

Join us for a challenging and beautiful adventure as we hike to the Hangman’s Tree Monument on Loma Ridge. Hike distance is 6 miles and affords fantastic views along the way, spanning the Pacific coastline, San Gabriel peaks and the Santa Ana Mountains. Several very steep climbs and descents are part of this route. We’ll accumulate almost 1800 feet of climbing elevation along this route. Portions of the hike will take us around an avocado orchard that borders on the natural open space. Far-reaching views from the highest point reward your effort.

Thursday Morning Trek: Orchard Hills
Date:
Thu, 03/27/2025
Time:
7:30 am - 11:00 am
Where:
Orchard Hills
Difficulty Rating:
4
Distance:
6 miles
Minimum Age:
18
Spaces Left:
Registration for this event opens at 8:00am on 03/12/2025
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:
Thu, 03/27/2025
Time:
8:30 am - 12:00 pm
Where:
Native Seed Farm OCP
Difficulty Rating:
2
Minimum Age:
18
Spaces Left:
Registration for this event opens at 8:00am on 03/12/2025
More Information  

Fitness Hike – Ridge Park

Hiking & Fitness
Fitness Hike - Ridge Park

Please be aware this is a Fitness Hike and not for beginners; the pace is approximately a 19-minute mile. Join Laguna Canyon Foundation Volunteers to raise your heart rate and your spirits on this strenuous, moderately paced, 6.6-mile hike over steep and uneven terrain with a 1,100-ft. elevation gain.

Age: 16 or older. Participants under 18 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian.

Location: Ridge Park, Laguna Coast Wilderness Park. Meet at the end of Ridge Park Road/Trail Entrance.

Parking: Free neighborhood parking. Please park legally. Parking is limited, carpooling is encouraged.

Difficulty Rating: 4/5

Materials: Participants must bring plenty of water, closed-toed hiking 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.

Fitness Hike - Ridge Park
Date:
Thu, 03/27/2025
Time:
8:30 am - 11:00 am
Where:
Laguna Coast Wilderness Park
Difficulty Rating:
4
Minimum Age:
16
More Information  

Butterfly Series: Monarch Butterfly Stewardship in Bommer Canyon

Stewardship
Butterfly Series: Monarch Butterfly Stewardship in Bommer Canyon

Please join IRC staff water milkweed and nectar plants for the Monarch butterfly in Bommer Canyon. With your help we will create islands of Milkweed and nectar plants that will help support the seasonal migration of Monach butterflies. We may be using shovels and small handheld tools. No experience necessary.

Butterfly Series: Monarch Butterfly Stewardship in Bommer Canyon
Date:
Thu, 03/27/2025
Time:
9:00 am - 11:00 am
Where:
Bommer Canyon Preserve
Difficulty Rating:
2
Distance:
0.5 miles
Minimum Age:
15
Spaces Left:
Registration for this event opens at 8:00am on 03/12/2025
More Information  

Little Explorers: Hike at Mason!

Interpretive
Little Explorers: Hike at Mason!

Join OC Park Naturalists for a Little Explorers hike! Bring your little ones (ages 3-6) on a 1-mile hike around Mason Regional Park! While hiking, we will explore the butterfly garden, the lake, and more! This hike is relatively flat on paved surfaces.

Age: 3-6 year-olds. Participants under 18 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian.

Location: Mason Regional Park at 18712 University Drive, Irvine (Exit I-405 at Culver Drive south, turn right (west/south) on University Drive, left at San Joaquin/park entrance – meet at the western end of Parking Lot A).

Parking: $5/car at Mason Regional Park parking lot. Parking is limited, carpooling is encouraged.

Difficulty Rating: 1/5

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.

Little Explorers: Hike at Mason!
Date:
Thu, 03/27/2025
Time:
9:00 am - 11:00 am
Where:
Mason Regional Park
Difficulty Rating:
1
Minimum Age:
3
Family Friendly:
Yes
More Information  

Moving with Nature in Mind – Spring Yoga at the Farm

Hiking & Fitness
Moving with Nature in Mind - Spring Yoga at the Farm

Join us at our beautiful Native Seed Farm for an all-levels Vinyasa yoga class. This one-hour outdoor yoga class will incorporate both static posture holds and a dynamic sequence of asanas, flowing from one pose to the next, while connecting breath with movement. The practice will include options for modifications, proper alignments and breathing techniques. Increase balance, flexibility, strength, and mental clarity while reducing tension and stress.

Please bring water, a yoga mat, a large towel (optional) to place under your mat, wear athletic clothing, and bring appropriate clothing layers and sun protection for the weather.

Moving with Nature in Mind - Spring Yoga at the Farm
Date:
Thu, 03/27/2025
Time:
5:00 pm - 6:15 pm
Where:
Native Seed Farm OCP
Difficulty Rating:
1
Minimum Age:
15
Spaces Left:
Registration for this event opens at 8:00am on 03/12/2025
More Information  
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