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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.