Activities

Found 455 Events

Saturday, April 20, 2024

Earth Day at the Bay

Interpretive
Earth Day at the Bay

OC Parks and the Newport Bay Conservancy invite you to attend our annual celebration: Earth Day at the Bay.

This free, family-friendly event features environmental-themed exhibits from community partners and local artists. Booths will feature activities which include arts and crafts, science discovery and educational information. There will be live music throughout the day as well as a scavenger hunt complete with prizes. Be sure to enter the opportunity drawing as well!

Food trucks will be on site with tasty treats available for purchase.

For more information call (949) 923-2290 or email unbic@ocparks.com.

Earth Day at the Bay
Date:
Sat, 04/20/2024
Time:
10:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Where:
Upper Newport Bay
Difficulty Rating:
1
Minimum Age:
All Ages
Family Friendly:
Yes
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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:
3 of 20
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Family Hike: Red Rocks/Black Star Canyon

Interpretive
Family Hike: Red Rocks/Black Star Canyon

Enjoy an afternoon family hike in Black Star Canyon, part of OC Parks’ Irvine Ranch Open Space. We will hike along a flat trail and cross a dry creek as we watch for red-tailed hawks and mule deer. The hike will average 3-4 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: Red Rocks/Black Star Canyon
Date:
Sat, 04/20/2024
Time:
5:00 PM - 7:30 PM
Where:
Black Star Canyon Wilderness Park
Difficulty Rating:
2
Distance:
3.5 miles
Minimum Age:
6
Family Friendly:
Yes
Spaces Left:
Registration for this event opens at 8:00am on 04/05/2024
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Sunset Fitness Hike on Paved Hicks Haul Road: Both Sides of Loma Ridge

Hiking & Fitness
Sunset Fitness Hike on Paved Hicks Haul Road: Both Sides of Loma Ridge

You will enjoy a gorgeous sunset with panoramic views of Orange County while hiking in OC Parks’ Irvine Ranch Open Space on the paved Hicks Haul Road. This hike travels 6 miles, out and back crossing over Loma Ridge. This is the perfect activity for you to get your work-out in and view the sunset. The hike is conducted at an average pace 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. 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!

Sunset Fitness Hike on Paved Hicks Haul Road: Both Sides of Loma Ridge
Date:
Sat, 04/20/2024
Time:
6:00 PM - 8:00 PM
Where:
Limestone Canyon Nature Preserve
Difficulty Rating:
4
Distance:
6 miles
Minimum Age:
16
Spaces Left:
Registration for this event opens at 8:00am on 04/05/2024
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Bats: Heroes of the Night

Interpretive
Bats: Heroes of the Night

As the day starts to settle into the night in OC Parks’ Irvine Ranch Open Space, bats awaken, stir and streak into the evening sky. Come hear fascinating tales of our flying mammal. We will head out towards a popular roosting location as we watch our nighttime heroes begin their nightly adventures. This program is ideal to visually observe the bats in flight, though bat detectors are available to listen for their high-frequency calls. Be prepared to walk about 1/2 a mile. Dress warmly as it may be a chilly evening. A camping chair is welcome as we will have a short introductory presentation in the staging area before the walk.

Bats: Heroes of the Night
Date:
Sat, 04/20/2024
Time:
6:45 PM - 8:45 PM
Where:
Limestone Canyon Nature Preserve
Difficulty Rating:
1
Distance:
2 miles
Minimum Age:
6
Spaces Left:
Registration for this event opens at 8:00am on 04/05/2024
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Sunday, April 21, 2024

Sunday Fitness Hike at Hicks Haul

Hiking & Fitness
Sunday Fitness Hike at Hicks Haul

Join us Sunday morning in OC Parks’ Irvine Ranch Open Space for a fitness-focused hike on the Hicks Haul Road, West Loma and Shoestring trails in Limestone Canyon. Hikers will enjoy wonderful views and a panoramic overview of Orange County. The hike starts at Hicks Haul Road staging area and will cover a distance of 8.5 miles, about 5 miles of the hike is on paved surface and rest on trails. Participants are expected to hike close to 3 miles per hour and come prepared with closed toe hiking boots or shoes, water, trail snacks, sunscreen, hat, day pack or fanny pack, and any other necessary equipment or supplies you might need to keep you safe on this hike.

Sunday Fitness Hike at Hicks Haul
Date:
Sun, 04/21/2024
Time:
6:30 AM - 9:30 AM
Where:
Limestone Canyon Nature Preserve
Difficulty Rating:
4
Distance:
8.5 miles
Minimum Age:
18
Spaces Left:
Registration for this event opens at 8:00am on 04/06/2024
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Advanced Distance Hike: Bommer Canyon

Hiking & Fitness
Advanced Distance Hike: Bommer Canyon

The title says it all. This is your chance to venture deep in the Irvine Open Space Preserve. Join us for a challenging and beautiful adventure. Hiking distance is up to 14 miles and is designed for advanced hikers. Participants must be physically fit and have distance hiking experience. Singletrack trails, steep climbs and descents are numerous on this route, with over 2,400 feet of accumulated climbing elevation. Most months, the route stays in the Irvine Open Space Preserve for its entirety but will occasionally feature hiking to the sea and back: beginning in Bommer, the hike will head into Crystal Cove State Park, then pass through Laguna Coast Wilderness Park before returning to the Irvine preserve.

Advanced Distance Hike: Bommer Canyon
Date:
Sun, 04/21/2024
Time:
7:00 AM - 1:00 PM
Where:
Bommer Canyon Preserve
Difficulty Rating:
5
Distance:
14 miles
Minimum Age:
18
Spaces Left:
Registration for this event opens at 8:00am on 04/06/2024
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Weir Canyon Fitness Hike: Oaks to Overlook Loop

Hiking & Fitness
Weir Canyon Fitness Hike: Oaks to Overlook Loop

Enjoy miles of lush oak studded canyons, fascinating rock formations and sweeping views from the Overlook Trail in the tranquility of the Weir Canyon back country, part of OC Parks’ Irvine Ranch Open Space. On a clear day we’ll be rewarded with glorious views of the San Gabriel and Santa Ana mountains. This is a fitness hike and features an 1800 ft accumulated elevation gain. There are multiple steep climbs and steep descents. Please make sure you are in excellent physical condition! You must be able to hike uphill at an average pace of 3 mph without stopping. A backpack and water are required. Please bring snack, sun screen, hat and wear sturdy closed-toe shoes.

Weir Canyon Fitness Hike: Oaks to Overlook Loop
Date:
Sun, 04/21/2024
Time:
7:00 AM - 11:00 AM
Where:
Weir Canyon Nature Preserve
Difficulty Rating:
4
Distance:
9.5 miles
Minimum Age:
16
Spaces Left:
Registration for this event opens at 8:00am on 04/06/2024
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Bommer Canyon East Fork and Ridge Route Loop Hike

Hiking & Fitness
Bommer Canyon East Fork and Ridge Route Loop Hike

Experience the serenity of Bommer Canyon during this moderate-paced hike in the Irvine Open Space Preserve. We’ll experience mature coastal sage scrub and fantastic views overlooking the city of Irvine and the hillsides to the north. This hike is just over 3 miles and includes 700 feet of total climbing elevation with several very steep inclines. The steepest section ascends 300 feet in a quarter-mile. Participants must be in good physical condition.

Bommer Canyon East Fork and Ridge Route Loop Hike
Date:
Sun, 04/21/2024
Time:
7:30 AM - 10:00 AM
Where:
Bommer Canyon Preserve
Difficulty Rating:
3
Distance:
3 miles
Minimum Age:
12
Spaces Left:
Registration for this event opens at 8:00am on 04/06/2024
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Moderate-Paced Mountain Bike Ride: Fremont, Blind, Weir Canyon

Mountain Biking
Moderate-Paced Mountain Bike Ride: Fremont, Blind, Weir Canyon

Experienced mountain bikers can explore one of the most rugged and remote areas of OC Parks’ Irvine Ranch Open Space from the trails of Fremont Canyon Nature Preserve on this moderate-paced ride through Fremont, Blind, and Weir Canyons. Fremont Canyon remains one of the most wild places in Orange County, with a diversity of rare plants and animals. This ride includes natural trail hazards such as sand, tree roots, ruts, and exposed rocks.  PLEASE NOTE: there are multiple very steep climbs, with an approximate elevation gain of 2,400 feet over 19 miles.  This hard ride is for adult-only riders in excellent physical condition who will be rewarded with the beautiful vistas.

Moderate-Paced Mountain Bike Ride: Fremont, Blind, Weir Canyon
Date:
Sun, 04/21/2024
Time:
7:30 AM - 11:00 AM
Where:
Fremont Canyon Nature Preserve
Difficulty Rating:
4
Distance:
17 miles
Minimum Age:
18
Spaces Left:
Registration for this event opens at 8:00am on 04/06/2024
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Earthcache Hike to Dripping Springs: Limestone Canyon

Interpretive
Earthcache Hike to Dripping Springs: Limestone Canyon

Come and hike with us to Dripping Springs, location of the Earthcache site listed on www.geocaching.com. The cache is titled, “Dripping Springs Aquifer- Irvine Ranch Wildlands, GC1ZC04.” This hike is open to existing geocachers, those curious about geocaching and non-geocachers alike. There will be as much time as needed at Dripping Springs so all cachers can record their data and make their observations to confidently log their visit to this cache site. Dripping Springs is a natural spring and fern grotto found in the heart of Limestone Canyon. This hike will follow Limestone Canyon and then up the Sandtrap trail and down to Dripping Springs and back through Limestone Canyon for an approximate 7-mile loop. Total climbing elevation is around 1300 feet.

Earthcache Hike to Dripping Springs: Limestone Canyon
Date:
Sun, 04/21/2024
Time:
8:30 AM - 12:00 PM
Where:
Limestone Canyon Nature Preserve
Difficulty Rating:
4
Distance:
7 miles
Minimum Age:
16
Spaces Left:
Registration for this event opens at 8:00am on 04/06/2024
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Weekly Nature Area Clean Up

Trail Work
Weekly Nature Area Clean Up

Join Mile Square Regional Park staff and volunteers in enhancing the Nature Area 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, water, wear closed toe shoes and a long sleeve shirt is recommended. Tools are provided. Please arrive on time, as work will begin promptly at 8 am.

Please note, this is a weekly reoccurring activity and space is limited. Please park in the Overflow/gravel lot and meet at the volunteer shed just a few yards west of the Overflow/gravel lot entrance.

• Space is limited and pre-registration is required.
• Minors ages 16 and younger must have a legal guardian present at all times.
• Rain or heat advisories cancel the event

Weekly Nature Area Clean Up
Date:
Sun, 04/21/2024
Time:
9:00 AM - 11:00 AM
Where:
Mile Square Regional Park
Difficulty Rating:
1
Minimum Age:
12
Spaces Left:
21 of 25
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Evening Adult Beginner Mountain Bike Ride: Limestone Canyon to The Sinks

Mountain Biking
Evening Adult Beginner Mountain Bike Ride: Limestone Canyon to The Sinks

A slow-paced beginner mountain bike ride for adults in Limestone Canyon, part of OC Parks’ Irvine Ranch Open Space, through sycamores, oaks, and habitat native to California. The route takes us to The Sinks, Orange County’s own mini “Grand Canyon.” Along the way, we will stop and talk about the local habitat, and hope to see some of our local native animals and raptors. For mountain bikers with a minimum of six months of trail experience who would like to join IRC-certified volunteers on an 8 – 9 mile ride with 400 – 800 feet of elevation gain.  This ride is for adult riders only. Allow up to 2.5 hours of riding time. Motorized recreation vehicles of any class or type are not permitted for use in the Nature Preserve.

Evening Adult Beginner Mountain Bike Ride: Limestone Canyon to The Sinks
Date:
Sun, 04/21/2024
Time:
5:00 PM - 7:30 PM
Where:
Limestone Canyon Nature Preserve
Difficulty Rating:
3
Distance:
8 miles
Minimum Age:
18
Spaces Left:
Registration for this event opens at 8:00am on 04/06/2024
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Almost Full Moon Hike at Crystal Cove State Park

Interpretive
Almost Full Moon Hike at Crystal Cove State Park

Explore the Park After Dark, on a guided, interpretive 2-hour, 4-mile Full Moon Hike at Crystal Cove State Park.

A park naturalist will lead hikers on this interpretive, moderate to difficult loop trail, with uneven terrain and a steep uphill climb with elevation gain of 600 ft. This hike is suitable for ages 10 and up. Hikers must wear sturdy shoes, bring water, a snack, and dress in layers. Please bring a red flashlight, if you don’t have one, we will have plenty to share. Meet at the Ranger Station (PCH inland at stoplight School-State Park, follow the signs to the Ranger Station). $5 entrance fee.

Almost Full Moon Hike at Crystal Cove State Park
Date:
Sun, 04/21/2024
Time:
7:30 PM - 9:30 PM
Where:
Crystal Cove State Park
Difficulty Rating:
4
Minimum Age:
10
Spaces Left:
Registration for this event opens at 8:00am on 04/06/2024
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Monday, April 22, 2024

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, 04/22/2024
Time:
7:30 AM - 12:30 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 04/07/2024
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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:
Registration for this event opens at 8:00am on 04/07/2024
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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, 04/22/2024
Time:
9:30 AM - 1:30 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 04/07/2024
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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:
Registration for this event opens at 8:00am on 04/07/2024
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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, 04/22/2024
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 04/07/2024
More Information  

Tuesday, April 23, 2024

Hike to The Sinks: Limestone Canyon

Hiking & Fitness
Hike to The Sinks: Limestone Canyon

Come along with us on this morning hike through beautiful Limestone Canyon Nature Preserve, part of OCParks’ 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.

Hike to The Sinks: Limestone Canyon
Date:
Tue, 04/23/2024
Time:
7:00 AM - 11:00 AM
Where:
Limestone Canyon Nature Preserve
Difficulty Rating:
4
Distance:
10 miles
Minimum Age:
18
Spaces Left:
Registration for this event opens at 8:00am on 04/08/2024
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