Activities

Friday, September 29, 2023

Evening Hike: Fremont Canyon

Hiking & Fitness
Evening Hike: Fremont Canyon

Come enjoy a scenic fast-paced  evening hike in the remote Fremont Canyon Nature Preserve. Our hike climbs steeply from the mouth of Fremont Canyon, past an abandoned coal mine, up to the Fremont Weather Station where winds have been clocked at up to 100 mph. After enjoying the view, we’ll turn around and hike back the same way to our starting point.

This challenging hike involves steep hills and a 1200’ elevation change but the rewards are sweeping views at the magic hour of twilight, just before and after sunset. Please arrive 15 minutes early and come prepared with a sturdy day pack, water, snacks, closed-toe hiking shoes or boots, sunscreen, first aid, and all other supplies to keep you safe and healthy on the trail.

Reviewing the 1-through-5 Difficulty Ratings will help you evaluate your readiness to participate in this level-4 activity on the land. Please visit our FAQ page for answers to activity specific questions you may have prior to registering.

Evening Hike: Fremont Canyon
Date:
Fri, 09/29/2023
Time:
4:00 PM - 7:00 PM
Where:
Fremont Canyon Nature Preserve
Difficulty Rating:
4
Distance:
6 miles
Minimum Age:
18
Spaces Left:
14 of 20
More Information  

Saturday, September 30, 2023

Animal Tracking in Fremont Canyon

Interpretive
Animal Tracking in Fremont Canyon

Come search for evidence that animals leave behind in nature. Mule deer, bobcats, coyotes and even mountain lions call this hidden canyon home. Gain the basic tracking techniques as we search for evidence such as tracks, fur, bones, homes, and even scat. You never know what you may find! Please wear comfortable clothes and shoes that you do not mind getting a little dusty. This program is focused on older children and adults.

Reviewing the 1-through-5  Difficulty Ratings will help you evaluate your readiness to participate in this level-3 activity on the land. Please visit our FAQ page for answers to activity specific questions you may have prior to registering.

Animal Tracking in Fremont Canyon
Date:
Sat, 09/30/2023
Time:
8:00 AM - 11:00 AM
Where:
Fremont Canyon Nature Preserve
Difficulty Rating:
3
Distance:
3 miles
Minimum Age:
12
Spaces Left:
Full
More Information  

Monday, October 2, 2023

Equestrian Trail Ride: Horseshoe Loop to Fremont

Equestrian
Equestrian Trail Ride: Horseshoe Loop to Fremont

Bring your horse and join us on the sage-scented trail up and down gentle hills. We will start from Irvine Park and proceed on the Irvine Regional Park Horseshoe Loop to Waterworks Trail that will take us under the towering overpass of the 241 Toll Road. We will see the foot of the Irvine Lake Dam and catch a glimpse of the heart of Fremont Canyon, part of OCParks’ Irvine Ranch Open Space. We will pass the site of an enormous coal pile left by miners of yesteryear and then return to the park.

Reviewing the 1-through-5 Difficulty Ratings will help you evaluate your readiness to participate in this level-4 activity on the land. Please visit our FAQ page for answers to activity specific questions you may have prior to registering.

Equestrian Trail Ride: Horseshoe Loop to Fremont
Date:
Mon, 10/02/2023
Time:
10:00 AM - 2:30 PM
Where:
Fremont Canyon Nature Preserve
Difficulty Rating:
4
Distance:
6 miles
Minimum Age:
18
Spaces Left:
10 of 10
More Information  

Tuesday, October 10, 2023

Tecate Cypress and Coast Live Oaks Stewardship Day

Stewardship
Tecate Cypress and Coast Live Oaks Stewardship Day

Spend the morning watering and nurturing Tecate Cypress trees and Coast Live Oak seedlings at the Fremont Staging area.

Please be aware that you may be instructed to use tools for this activity such as; but not limited to, pliers, mallets, trowels and shovels.

Reviewing the 1-through-5 Difficulty Ratings will help you evaluate your readiness to participate in this level-2 activity on the land. Please visit our FAQ page for answers to activity specific questions you may have prior to registering.

Tecate Cypress and Coast Live Oaks Stewardship Day
Date:
Tue, 10/10/2023
Time:
9:00 AM - 11:00 AM
Where:
Fremont Canyon Nature Preserve
Difficulty Rating:
2
Distance:
2 miles
Minimum Age:
14
Spaces Left:
Registration for this event opens at 8:00am on 10/02/2023
More Information  

Saturday, October 14, 2023

FREEKS Ride: Clockwise

Mountain Biking
FREEKS Ride: Clockwise

Join us in OCParks’ Irvine Ranch Open Space for a challenging docent-led mountain bike ride for very experienced off-road riders in excellent cardio shape. Climb challenging State Spur to Cathedral Rock, and then descend into Fremont Canyon while passing some of Orange County’s most spectacular geological formations. The ride continues out to Mini-Moab and then over to Sierra Peak, passing the Tecate Cypress forest, then past Sierra Peak, and over to the last descent down through historic Black Star Canyon.

Motorized recreation vehicles of any class or type are not permitted for use in the Nature Preserve. Reviewing the 1-through-5 Difficulty Ratings will help you evaluate your readiness to participate in this level-5 activity on the land. Please visit our FAQ page for answers to activity specific questions you may have prior to registering.

FREEKS Ride: Clockwise
Date:
Sat, 10/14/2023
Time:
7:30 AM - 12:30 PM
Where:
Fremont Canyon Nature Preserve
Difficulty Rating:
5
Distance:
25 miles
Minimum Age:
18
Spaces Left:
Registration for this event opens at 8:00am on 10/06/2023
More Information  

Wednesday, October 18, 2023

Distance Hike to Mini Moab: Fremont Canyon

Hiking & Fitness
Distance Hike to Mini Moab: Fremont Canyon

Come along with us on this epic hike from the bottom of Fremont Canyon to the bold, sandstone outcrops marking the ridgeline locally known as “Mini Moab.” This extremely challenging out-and-back hike is for experienced, physically fit distance hikers. We climb steeply along ranch roads past an abandoned coal mine, the Fremont Weather Station, remnants of a rare stand of Tecate cypress, and Lizard Rock. Less than a mile after entering the Coal Canyon Ecological Reserve, we reach our destination. The view from Mini Moab is nothing short of spectacular! After a break for snacks and to enjoy the view, we’ll retrace our steps back to the Fremont Staging Area.

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

Distance Hike to Mini Moab: Fremont Canyon
Date:
Wed, 10/18/2023
Time:
7:00 AM - 2:00 PM
Where:
Fremont Canyon Nature Preserve
Difficulty Rating:
5
Distance:
14 miles
Minimum Age:
18
Spaces Left:
Registration for this event opens at 8:00am on 10/10/2023
More Information  

Friday, October 27, 2023

Distance Hike: Fremont to Weir Canyon

Hiking & Fitness
Distance Hike: Fremont to Weir Canyon

Join us for an early morning distance hike from remote Fremont Canyon to the oak woodlands of Weir Canyon. Shortly after leaving Irvine Regional Park, this hike climbs steeply from the mouth of Fremont Canyon and passes an abandoned coal mine. We continue through Upper Blind Canyon, up to a scenic overlook and then drop down to Weir Canyon as we wind our way back to Irvine Regional Park.

Distance is up to 14 miles and is designed for advanced hikers. Participants must be physically fit and have distance hiking experience.

Reviewing the 1-through-5 Difficulty Ratings will help you evaluate your readiness to participate in this level-5 activity on the land. Please visit our FAQ page for answers to activity specific questions you may have prior to registering.

Distance Hike: Fremont to Weir Canyon
Date:
Fri, 10/27/2023
Time:
7:00 AM - 1:00 PM
Where:
Fremont Canyon Nature Preserve
Difficulty Rating:
5
Distance:
14 miles
Minimum Age:
18
Spaces Left:
Registration for this event opens at 8:00am on 10/19/2023
More Information  

Saturday, October 28, 2023

Animal Signs and Tracking in Fremont Canyon

Interpretive
Animal Signs and Tracking in Fremont Canyon

Come search for evidence that animals leave behind in OCParks’ Irvine Ranch Open Space. Mule deer, bobcats, coyotes and even mountain lions call this hidden canyon home. Gain the basic tracking techniques as we search for evidence such as tracks, fur, bones, homes, and even scat. You never know what you may find! Please wear comfortable clothes and shoes that you do not mind getting a little dusty. This program is focused on older children and adults.

Reviewing the 1-through-5  Difficulty Ratings will help you evaluate your readiness to participate in this level-3 activity on the land. Please visit our FAQ page for answers to activity specific questions you may have prior to registering.

Animal Signs and Tracking in Fremont Canyon
Date:
Sat, 10/28/2023
Time:
8:00 AM - 11:00 AM
Where:
Fremont Canyon Nature Preserve
Difficulty Rating:
3
Distance:
3 miles
Minimum Age:
12
Spaces Left:
Registration for this event opens at 8:00am on 10/20/2023
More Information  

Sunday, October 29, 2023

Early Morning Hike: Fremont Canyon

Hiking & Fitness
Early Morning Hike:  Fremont Canyon

Come enjoy an early morning hike in Fremont Canyon Nature Preserve, part of OC Parks’ Irvine Ranch Open Space. Our hike climbs steeply from the mouth of Fremont Canyon, past an abandoned coal mine up to the Fremont Weather Station where winds have been clocked at up to 100 mph. After enjoying the view, we’ll hike back the same way to our starting point. This hike involves steep hills and a 1200’ elevation change but the rewards are panoramic views of Orange County, the Santa Ana Mountains and surrounding areas as well as possible wildlife sightings. Please arrive 15 minutes early and come prepared with a sturdy day pack, water, snacks, closed-toe hiking shoes or boots, sunscreen, first aid, and all other supplies to keep you safe and healthy on the trail.

Reviewing the 1-through-5 Difficulty Ratings will help you evaluate your readiness to participate in this level-4 activity on the land. Please visit our FAQ page for answers to activity specific questions you may have prior to registering.

Early Morning Hike:  Fremont Canyon
Date:
Sun, 10/29/2023
Time:
7:00 AM - 9:30 AM
Where:
Fremont Canyon Nature Preserve
Difficulty Rating:
4
Distance:
6 miles
Minimum Age:
18
Spaces Left:
Registration for this event opens at 8:00am on 10/21/2023
More Information  

Tuesday, October 31, 2023

Twilight Fremont Canyon Coal Mine

Hiking & Fitness
Twilight Fremont Canyon Coal Mine

Come enjoy a scenic evening cardio hike in the remote Fremont Canyon Nature Preserve, part of OCParks’ Irvine Ranch Open Space. Our hike climbs steeply from the mouth of Fremont Canyon, past an abandoned coal mine, up to the Fremont Weather Station. After enjoying the view, we’ll turnaround and hike back the same way to our starting point.

This challenging hike involves steep climbs and a 1200’ elevation gain but the rewards are sweeping views of Fremont at sunset. Please arrive 15 minutes early and come prepared with a sturdy pack, water, closed-toe hiking shoes or boots, sunscreen, first aid, and all other supplies to keep you safe and healthy on the trail.

Reviewing the 1-through-5 Difficulty Ratings will help you evaluate your readiness to participate in this level-4 activity on the land. Please visit our FAQ page for answers to activity specific questions you may have prior to registering.

Twilight Fremont Canyon Coal Mine
Date:
Tue, 10/31/2023
Time:
3:00 PM - 6:00 PM
Where:
Fremont Canyon Nature Preserve
Difficulty Rating:
4
Distance:
6 miles
Minimum Age:
18
Spaces Left:
Registration for this event opens at 8:00am on 10/23/2023
More Information  

Friday, November 3, 2023

Distance Hike to Mini Moab: Fremont Canyon

Hiking & Fitness
Distance Hike to Mini Moab: Fremont Canyon

Join us on this epic hike to Mini Moab. We’ll hike from the bottom of Fremont Canyon to the bold, sandstone outcrops marking the ridgeline locally known as “Mini Moab.” This extremely challenging out-and-back hike is for experienced, physically fit distance hikers. We climb steeply along ranch roads past an abandoned coal mine, the Fremont Weather Station, remnants of a rare stand of Tecate cypress, and Lizard Rock. Less than a mile after entering the Coal Canyon Ecological Reserve, we reach our destination. The view from Mini Moab is nothing short of spectacular! After a break for snacks and to enjoy the view, we’ll retrace our steps back to the Fremont Staging Area.

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

Distance Hike to Mini Moab: Fremont Canyon
Date:
Fri, 11/03/2023
Time:
7:00 AM - 2:00 PM
Where:
Fremont Canyon Nature Preserve
Difficulty Rating:
5
Distance:
14 miles
Minimum Age:
18
Spaces Left:
Registration for this event opens at 8:00am on 10/26/2023
More Information  

Sunday, November 5, 2023

Fremont Canyon Equestrian Ride

Equestrian
Fremont Canyon Equestrian Ride

Come bring your horse and join us as we explore the vastness of Fremont Canyon a part of OC Parks’ Irvine Ranch Open Space. Our trail begins at the foot of the Irvine Lake Dam, where the sky is often filled with large soaring birds. You will find the sage scented trail lined with thick chaparral and rock outcroppings. Our horses will take us up several moderate to steep climbs on this ride, but the effort will be rewarded by magnificent views. From atop high ridges, you will look down upon Fremont, Baker, and Black Star Canyons and far beyond if the day is clear. With its rugged landscape and abundance of life, you will come away from this ride with memories and an appreciation for the land.

Reviewing the 1-through-5 Difficulty Ratings will help you evaluate your readiness to participate in this level-4 activity on the land. Please visit our FAQ page for answers to activity specific questions you may have prior to registering.

Fremont Canyon Equestrian Ride
Date:
Sun, 11/05/2023
Time:
11:00 AM - 2:30 PM
Where:
Fremont Canyon Nature Preserve
Difficulty Rating:
4
Distance:
6 miles
Minimum Age:
18
Spaces Left:
Registration for this event opens at 8:00am on 10/28/2023
More Information  

Twilight Cardio Hike: Fremont Canyon Lakeview

Hiking & Fitness
Twilight Cardio Hike: Fremont Canyon Lakeview

Come enjoy a scenic evening cardio hike in the remote Fremont Canyon Nature Preserve, part of OCParks’ Irvine Ranch Open Space. Our hike climbs steeply from the mouth of Fremont Canyon along the Lakeview Trail overlooking Irvine Lake. Upon reaching our turnaround point, we’ll head back the same way, descending to our starting point. This challenging hike involves steep climbs and an 1100’ elevation gain but the rewards are sweeping views of Fremont at sunset. Please arrive 15 minutes early and come prepared with a sturdy pack, water, closed-toe hiking shoes or boots, sunscreen, first aid, and all other supplies to keep you safe and healthy on the trail.

Reviewing the 1-through-5 Difficulty Ratings will help you evaluate your readiness to participate in this level-4 activity on the land. Please visit our FAQ page for answers to activity specific questions you may have prior to registering.

Twilight Cardio Hike: Fremont Canyon Lakeview
Date:
Sun, 11/05/2023
Time:
2:30 PM - 5:30 PM
Where:
Fremont Canyon Nature Preserve
Difficulty Rating:
4
Distance:
4.5 miles
Minimum Age:
18
Spaces Left:
Registration for this event opens at 8:00am on 10/28/2023
More Information  

Thursday, November 9, 2023

Equestrian Trail Ride: Fremont to Weir Canyon

Equestrian
Equestrian Trail Ride: Fremont to Weir Canyon

Experience the wonders of two preserve areas located on OCParks’ beautiful Irvine Ranch Open Space, Fremont and Weir Canyons. We begin our equestrian ride atop the Waterworks trail, an old filled-in V ditch that served to water the vast acres of the old Irvine Ranch of Orange County. We parallel Santiago Creek and enter the mouth of Fremont Canyon where native flora and fauna abound and find refuge from the sprawling urban environment. We turn and head toward Weir Canyon along the MWD trail and find ourselves gaining elevation and on little hills. As we head into the canyons we find hawks overhead and the coastal sage scrub turn into chaparral. We may find wildflowers or native grasses sprouting and certainly, we will hear sounds from Irvine Park. Serenity will be found as we enter the quietness of Weir Canyon where Oaks abound and restoration continues where Ox carts once traversed. After travelling back in time, we make our way back to the park and toward our original starting point going through Lower Weir Canyon and back into the park.

Reviewing the 1-through-5 Difficulty Ratings will help you evaluate your readiness to participate in this level-4 activity on the land. Please visit our FAQ page for answers to activity specific questions you may have prior to registering.

Equestrian Trail Ride: Fremont to Weir Canyon
Date:
Thu, 11/09/2023
Time:
10:00 AM - 2:30 PM
Where:
Fremont Canyon Nature Preserve
Difficulty Rating:
4
Distance:
10 miles
Minimum Age:
18
Spaces Left:
Registration for this event opens at 8:00am on 11/01/2023
More Information  

Friday, November 10, 2023

Twilight Cardio Hike: Fremont Canyon Coal Mine

Hiking & Fitness
Twilight Cardio Hike: Fremont Canyon Coal Mine

Come enjoy a scenic evening cardio hike in the remote Fremont Canyon Nature Preserve, part of OCParks’ Irvine Ranch Open Space. Our hike climbs steeply from the mouth of Fremont Canyon, past an abandoned coal mine, up to the Fremont Weather Station. After enjoying the view, we’ll turnaround and hike back the same way to our starting point.

This challenging hike involves steep climbs and a 1200’ elevation gain but the rewards are sweeping views of Fremont at sunset. Please arrive 15 minutes early and come prepared with a sturdy pack, water, closed-toe hiking shoes or boots, sunscreen, first aid, and all other supplies to keep you safe and healthy on the trail.

Reviewing the 1-through-5 Difficulty Ratings will help you evaluate your readiness to participate in this level-4 activity on the land. Please visit our FAQ page for answers to activity specific questions you may have prior to registering.

Twilight Cardio Hike: Fremont Canyon Coal Mine
Date:
Fri, 11/10/2023
Time:
4:00 PM - 7:00 PM
Where:
Fremont Canyon Nature Preserve
Difficulty Rating:
4
Distance:
6 miles
Minimum Age:
18
Spaces Left:
Registration for this event opens at 8:00am on 11/02/2023
More Information  

Saturday, November 11, 2023

FREEKS Ride: Clockwise

Mountain Biking
FREEKS Ride: Clockwise

Join us in OCParks’ Irvine Ranch Open Space for a challenging docent-led mountain bike ride for very experienced off-road riders in excellent cardio shape. Climb challenging State Spur to Cathedral Rock, and then descend into Fremont Canyon while passing some of Orange County’s most spectacular geological formations. The ride continues out to Mini-Moab and then over to Sierra Peak, passing the Tecate Cypress forest, then past Sierra Peak, and over to the last descent down through historic Black Star Canyon.

Motorized recreation vehicles of any class or type are not permitted for use in the Nature Preserve. Reviewing the 1-through-5 Difficulty Ratings will help you evaluate your readiness to participate in this level-5 activity on the land. Please visit our FAQ page for answers to activity specific questions you may have prior to registering.

FREEKS Ride: Clockwise
Date:
Sat, 11/11/2023
Time:
7:30 AM - 12:30 PM
Where:
Fremont Canyon Nature Preserve
Difficulty Rating:
5
Distance:
25 miles
Minimum Age:
18
Spaces Left:
Registration for this event opens at 8:00am on 11/03/2023
More Information  

Animal Tracking in Fremont Canyon

Interpretive
Animal Tracking in Fremont Canyon

Come search for evidence that animals leave behind in nature. Mule deer, bobcats, coyotes and even mountain lions call this hidden canyon home. Gain the basic tracking techniques as we search for evidence such as tracks, fur, bones, homes, and even scat. You never know what you may find! Please wear comfortable clothes and shoes that you do not mind getting a little dusty. This program is focused on older children and adults.

Reviewing the 1-through-5  Difficulty Ratings will help you evaluate your readiness to participate in this level-3 activity on the land. Please visit our FAQ page for answers to activity specific questions you may have prior to registering.

Animal Tracking in Fremont Canyon
Date:
Sat, 11/11/2023
Time:
9:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Where:
Fremont Canyon Nature Preserve
Difficulty Rating:
3
Distance:
3 miles
Minimum Age:
12
Spaces Left:
Registration for this event opens at 8:00am on 11/03/2023
More Information  

Tuesday, November 14, 2023

Tecate Cypress and Coast Live Oaks Stewardship Day

Stewardship
Tecate Cypress and Coast Live Oaks Stewardship Day

Spend the morning watering and nurturing Tecate Cypress trees and Coast Live Oak seedlings at the Fremont Staging area.

Please be aware that you may be instructed to use tools for this activity such as; but not limited to, pliers, mallets, trowels and shovels.

Reviewing the 1-through-5 Difficulty Ratings will help you evaluate your readiness to participate in this level-2 activity on the land. Please visit our FAQ page for answers to activity specific questions you may have prior to registering.

Tecate Cypress and Coast Live Oaks Stewardship Day
Date:
Tue, 11/14/2023
Time:
9:00 AM - 11:00 AM
Where:
Fremont Canyon Nature Preserve
Difficulty Rating:
2
Distance:
2 miles
Minimum Age:
14
Spaces Left:
Registration for this event opens at 8:00am on 11/06/2023
More Information  

Thursday, November 16, 2023

Thursday Morning Trek: Fremont Canyon

Hiking & Fitness
Thursday Morning Trek: Fremont Canyon

This week in OCParks’ Irvine Ranch Open Space, we’ll hike in the remote Fremont Canyon. The hike is just under 6 miles and includes a steep hill. We will hike from the mouth of Fremont Canyon, past a historic coal mine, to the Fremont Weather Station. After enjoying a spectacular view, we will hike back the same way to our starting point. Please bring water, a trail snack, sun screen, hat, and any other necessary equipment to keep you safe on the trail and wear sturdy, closed-toe hiking shoes. Participants must be able to hike 6 miles with an elevation gain of 1200 feet at an average moving rate of 3 miles per hour. Each hiker must carry his/her own water and supplies.

Reviewing the 1-through-5 Difficulty Ratings will help you evaluate your readiness to participate in this level-4 activity on the land. Please visit our FAQ page for answers to activity specific questions you may have prior to registering.

Thursday Morning Trek: Fremont Canyon
Date:
Thu, 11/16/2023
Time:
8:00 AM - 11:30 AM
Where:
Fremont Canyon Nature Preserve
Difficulty Rating:
4
Distance:
6 miles
Minimum Age:
16
Spaces Left:
Registration for this event opens at 8:00am on 11/08/2023
More Information  

Friday, November 17, 2023

Fremont Loop Distance Hike

Hiking & Fitness
Fremont Loop Distance Hike

Join us for an extremely challenging and strenuous hiking adventure in the scenic Fremont Canyon Wilderness Area. This 15-mile loop hike is for experienced, physically fit distance hikers. The hike is on fire/SCE dirt roads with numerous significantly steep, unrelenting climbs and descents. We hike the entire rim of Fremont Canyon, passing by an abandoned coal mine, the Fremont Weather Station and the remnants of a rare stand of Tecate cypress. Along the way we’ll have sweeping views of Orange County, the Santa Ana Mountains and surrounding mountain ranges.

Reviewing the 1-through-5 Difficulty Ratings will help you evaluate your readiness to participate in this level-5 activity on the land. Please visit our FAQ page for answers to activity specific questions you may have prior to registering.

Fremont Loop Distance Hike
Date:
Fri, 11/17/2023
Time:
7:00 AM - 3:00 PM
Where:
Fremont Canyon Nature Preserve
Difficulty Rating:
5
Distance:
16 miles
Minimum Age:
18
Spaces Left:
Registration for this event opens at 8:00am on 11/09/2023
More Information  
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