IRVINE RANCH NATURAL LANDMARKS The Irvine Ranch Natural Landmarks is part of the 50,000 acres of land preserved on the historic Irvine Ranch. The Irvine Ranch Natural Landmarks are not only unique in their biological and geological significance, but also in the level of partnership represented across the many organizations and agencies united by a single designation. OUTDOOR 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.

BOMMER CANYON TRAIL

Bommer Canyon. –OPEN FOR SELF-GUIDED ACCESS & SCHEDULED PROGRAMS–. Rich in both Irvine Ranch lore and nature’s wonders, Bommer Canyon beckons walkers, hikers, and all other outdoor enthusiasts to stroll past ancient oak and sycamore groves and rough rock outcrops. Much like the City’s Quail Hill Loop Trail, specific trails in this area JUNIOR RANGER DAY AT THE BAY Junior Ranger Day at the Bay. Come earn your Junior Ranger Badge and Certificate at Upper Newport Bay. Participants will go on a guided hike, complete a short service project, and take the junior ranger oath. Activities will be designed for learners in the 9-12 age range, but everyone is welcome. Minors aged 16 and younger must have legal QUAIL HILL PARK AND TRAIL Quail Hill. The 2.8-acre Quail Hill Trailhead provides a great location to connect to southern Irvine’s extensive trail network. The trailhead is located at the end of Sand Canyon Road and marks the beginning of the Quail Hill Loop Trail, an easy two-mile natural surface trail at the foot of Quail Hill that is open to the public

from dawn to

EARLY MORNING FITNESS HIKE ON HICKS HAUL ROAD: 6-MILES Join us for an exhilarating morning fitness hike on the paved Hicks Haul Road. This hike is a 6-mile route as a group – which is conducted at the speed of about 3.0 to 3.5 miles per hour.. The group may spread out for social distance reasons but generally will remain together for the entire hike. LIMESTONE CANYON NATURE PRESERVE IN CA Limestone Canyon Nature Preserve. This spectacular and lush canyon includes thick oak woodlands, streamside habitats, year-round springs and an iconic geological formation called “the Sinks,” often compared to a mini-Grand Canyon. A rich diversity of plants and animals as well as an unusual variety of natural habitats make

Limestone a true

THURSDAY MORNING TREK: QUAIL HILL Thursday Morning Trek: Quail Hill. This week in the Irvine Open Space, 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

BUCK GULLY RESERVE IN NEWPORT BEACH Buck Gully Reserve is a natural, coastal canyon in the City of Newport Beach. The canyon is bounded by urbanized areas, including single-family residences, roadways, and the Pelican Hills Golf Course. The watershed draining into Buck Gully encompasses approximately 1,200 acres and includes portions of the San Joaquin foothills. HIKE TO THE SINKS: LIMESTONE CANYON Hike to the Sinks: Limestone Canyon. Come along with us on this fast-paced morning hike through beautiful Limestone Canyon Nature Preserve to The Sinks. 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

IRVINE RANCH NATURAL LANDMARKS The Irvine Ranch Natural Landmarks is part of the 50,000 acres of land preserved on the historic Irvine Ranch. The Irvine Ranch Natural Landmarks are not only unique in their biological and geological significance, but also in the level of partnership represented across the many organizations and agencies united by a single designation. OUTDOOR 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.

BOMMER CANYON TRAIL

Bommer Canyon. –OPEN FOR SELF-GUIDED ACCESS & SCHEDULED PROGRAMS–. Rich in both Irvine Ranch lore and nature’s wonders, Bommer Canyon beckons walkers, hikers, and all other outdoor enthusiasts to stroll past ancient oak and sycamore groves and rough rock outcrops. Much like the City’s Quail Hill Loop Trail, specific trails in this area JUNIOR RANGER DAY AT THE BAY Junior Ranger Day at the Bay. Come earn your Junior Ranger Badge and Certificate at Upper Newport Bay. Participants will go on a guided hike, complete a short service project, and take the junior ranger oath. Activities will be designed for learners in the 9-12 age range, but everyone is welcome. Minors aged 16 and younger must have legal QUAIL HILL PARK AND TRAIL Quail Hill. The 2.8-acre Quail Hill Trailhead provides a great location to connect to southern Irvine’s extensive trail network. The trailhead is located at the end of Sand Canyon Road and marks the beginning of the Quail Hill Loop Trail, an easy two-mile natural surface trail at the foot of Quail Hill that is open to the public

from dawn to

EARLY MORNING FITNESS HIKE ON HICKS HAUL ROAD: 6-MILES Join us for an exhilarating morning fitness hike on the paved Hicks Haul Road. This hike is a 6-mile route as a group – which is conducted at the speed of about 3.0 to 3.5 miles per hour.. The group may spread out for social distance reasons but generally will remain together for the entire hike. LIMESTONE CANYON NATURE PRESERVE IN CA Limestone Canyon Nature Preserve. This spectacular and lush canyon includes thick oak woodlands, streamside habitats, year-round springs and an iconic geological formation called “the Sinks,” often compared to a mini-Grand Canyon. A rich diversity of plants and animals as well as an unusual variety of natural habitats make

Limestone a true

THURSDAY MORNING TREK: QUAIL HILL Thursday Morning Trek: Quail Hill. This week in the Irvine Open Space, 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

BUCK GULLY RESERVE IN NEWPORT BEACH Buck Gully Reserve is a natural, coastal canyon in the City of Newport Beach. The canyon is bounded by urbanized areas, including single-family residences, roadways, and the Pelican Hills Golf Course. The watershed draining into Buck Gully encompasses approximately 1,200 acres and includes portions of the San Joaquin foothills. HIKE TO THE SINKS: LIMESTONE CANYON Hike to the Sinks: Limestone Canyon. Come along with us on this fast-paced morning hike through beautiful Limestone Canyon Nature Preserve to The Sinks. 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

OUTDOOR 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. LAGUNA COAST WILDERNESS PARK AND HIKING TRAILS The park is owned and operated by OC Parks and the County of Orange, and a variety of guided activities are offered at the park by the non-profit Laguna Canyon Foundation. Open from dawn to dusk for independent hiking, mountain biking and equestrian use on designated trails only. Parking lots are open from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. for $3 per

vehicle.

NATURAL HISTORY ZOOM PRESENTATION WITH RAPTOR BIOLOGIST Pete Bloom will share his lifelong knowledge of the Irvine Ranch Landmarks, with retrospection and insight into the foothills and canyons that he has studied and explored since the 1960’s. Learn about the great diversity of our local wildlife, especially Continue

reading →

THURSDAY MORNING TREK: BOMMER CANYON This week in the Irvine Open Space, we’ll be in Bommer Canyon, once part of the historic Irvine cattle ranch where corrals and ranch equipment still stand. The hike is a seven-mile loop with some climbing but rewards you with Continue reading → WILDERNESS ACCESS DAY: BOMMER CANYON Enjoy self-guided access in the southern portion of Irvine’s Open Space Preserve. The entire southern Open Space Preserve trail network will be open for self-guided hiking and biking from 8 am to 2 pm. This includes the single-tracks in Shady Continue reading → QUAIL HILL PARK AND TRAIL Quail Hill. The 2.8-acre Quail Hill Trailhead provides a great location to connect to southern Irvine’s extensive trail network. The trailhead is located at the end of Sand Canyon Road and marks the beginning of the Quail Hill Loop Trail, an easy two-mile natural surface trail at the foot of Quail Hill that is open to the public

from dawn to

DOUBLE LOOP HIKE: BAKER CANYON Come explore the Irvine Ranch Natural Landmarks in your backyard! 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 Continue reading → THURSDAY MORNING TREK: BAKER CANYON Thursday Morning Trek: Baker Canyon. This week in the Irvine Ranch Open Space, we’ll hike in Baker Canyon. This scenic hike includes steep climbs and descents on both single and double-track trails with about 1100 feet of accumulated climbing. We will enjoy sweeping views of the Irvine Ranch Natural Landmarks and the Santa Ana Mountains. THURSDAY MORNING TREK: QUAIL HILL Thursday Morning Trek: Quail Hill. This week in the Irvine Open Space, 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

EXTREME CARDIO HIKE: FREMONT Extreme Cardio Hike: Fremont. Join us for a fast-paced, early morning, extreme cardio hike in Fremont Canyon and Weir Canyon. This approximately 10-mile cardio hike, completed in 3 hours, includes a 1,800-foot elevation change, and is for experienced, physically fit cardio hikers who enjoy the challenge of multiple steep climbs and

descents.

IRVINE RANCH NATURAL LANDMARKS The Irvine Ranch Natural Landmarks is part of the 50,000 acres of land preserved on the historic Irvine Ranch. The Irvine Ranch Natural Landmarks are not only unique in their biological and geological significance, but also in the level of partnership represented across the many organizations and agencies united by a single designation. OUTDOOR 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.

OC PARKS VOLUNTEERS

OC Parks encompasses regional, wilderness and historical facilities, as well as coastal areas throughout the County of Orange in California. Featuring 60,000 acres of parkland, open space and shoreline, Orange County’s award-winning parks and programs are enjoyed by millions of residents and visitors each year, in ways as diverse as the parks themselves. MOUNTAINS TO SEA TRAIL The Mountains to Sea Trail is the backbone of the 50,000 acres of open space preserved on the historic Irvine Ranch. The trail was created through cooperative municipal planning so that people of all ages and abilities could experience the magnitude, magnificence and diversity of the entire landscape of the region.

BOMMER CANYON TRAIL

Bommer Canyon. –OPEN FOR SELF-GUIDED ACCESS & SCHEDULED PROGRAMS–. Rich in both Irvine Ranch lore and nature’s wonders, Bommer Canyon beckons walkers, hikers, and all other outdoor enthusiasts to stroll past ancient oak and sycamore groves and rough rock outcrops. Much like the City’s Quail Hill Loop Trail, specific trails in this area LAGUNA COAST WILDERNESS PARK AND HIKING TRAILS The park is owned and operated by OC Parks and the County of Orange, and a variety of guided activities are offered at the park by the non-profit Laguna Canyon Foundation. Open from dawn to dusk for independent hiking, mountain biking and equestrian use on designated trails only. Parking lots are open from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. for $3 per

vehicle.

JUNIOR RANGER DAY AT THE BAY Junior Ranger Day at the Bay. Come earn your Junior Ranger Badge and Certificate at Upper Newport Bay. Participants will go on a guided hike, complete a short service project, and take the junior ranger oath. Activities will be designed for learners in the 9-12 age range, but everyone is welcome. Minors aged 16 and younger must have legal LIMESTONE CANYON NATURE PRESERVE IN CA Limestone Canyon Nature Preserve. This spectacular and lush canyon includes thick oak woodlands, streamside habitats, year-round springs and an iconic geological formation called “the Sinks,” often compared to a mini-Grand Canyon. A rich diversity of plants and animals as well as an unusual variety of natural habitats make

Limestone a true

BUCK GULLY RESERVE IN NEWPORT BEACH Buck Gully Reserve is a natural, coastal canyon in the City of Newport Beach. The canyon is bounded by urbanized areas, including single-family residences, roadways, and the Pelican Hills Golf Course. The watershed draining into Buck Gully encompasses approximately 1,200 acres and includes portions of the San Joaquin foothills. HELENA MODJESKA HISTORIC HOUSE AND GARDENS Bommer Canyon. Buck Gully Reserve. Crystal Cove State Park. Fremont Canyon Nature Preserve. Helena Modjeska Historic House and Gardens. Irvine Open Space Preserve. Irvine Ranch Historical Park. Irvine Regional Park. Laguna Coast Wilderness Park. IRVINE RANCH NATURAL LANDMARKS The Irvine Ranch Natural Landmarks is part of the 50,000 acres of land preserved on the historic Irvine Ranch. The Irvine Ranch Natural Landmarks are not only unique in their biological and geological significance, but also in the level of partnership represented across the many organizations and agencies united by a single designation. OUTDOOR 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.

OC PARKS VOLUNTEERS

OC Parks encompasses regional, wilderness and historical facilities, as well as coastal areas throughout the County of Orange in California. Featuring 60,000 acres of parkland, open space and shoreline, Orange County’s award-winning parks and programs are enjoyed by millions of residents and visitors each year, in ways as diverse as the parks themselves. MOUNTAINS TO SEA TRAIL The Mountains to Sea Trail is the backbone of the 50,000 acres of open space preserved on the historic Irvine Ranch. The trail was created through cooperative municipal planning so that people of all ages and abilities could experience the magnitude, magnificence and diversity of the entire landscape of the region.

BOMMER CANYON TRAIL

Bommer Canyon. –OPEN FOR SELF-GUIDED ACCESS & SCHEDULED PROGRAMS–. Rich in both Irvine Ranch lore and nature’s wonders, Bommer Canyon beckons walkers, hikers, and all other outdoor enthusiasts to stroll past ancient oak and sycamore groves and rough rock outcrops. Much like the City’s Quail Hill Loop Trail, specific trails in this area LAGUNA COAST WILDERNESS PARK AND HIKING TRAILS The park is owned and operated by OC Parks and the County of Orange, and a variety of guided activities are offered at the park by the non-profit Laguna Canyon Foundation. Open from dawn to dusk for independent hiking, mountain biking and equestrian use on designated trails only. Parking lots are open from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. for $3 per

vehicle.

JUNIOR RANGER DAY AT THE BAY Junior Ranger Day at the Bay. Come earn your Junior Ranger Badge and Certificate at Upper Newport Bay. Participants will go on a guided hike, complete a short service project, and take the junior ranger oath. Activities will be designed for learners in the 9-12 age range, but everyone is welcome. Minors aged 16 and younger must have legal LIMESTONE CANYON NATURE PRESERVE IN CA Limestone Canyon Nature Preserve. This spectacular and lush canyon includes thick oak woodlands, streamside habitats, year-round springs and an iconic geological formation called “the Sinks,” often compared to a mini-Grand Canyon. A rich diversity of plants and animals as well as an unusual variety of natural habitats make

Limestone a true

BUCK GULLY RESERVE IN NEWPORT BEACH Buck Gully Reserve is a natural, coastal canyon in the City of Newport Beach. The canyon is bounded by urbanized areas, including single-family residences, roadways, and the Pelican Hills Golf Course. The watershed draining into Buck Gully encompasses approximately 1,200 acres and includes portions of the San Joaquin foothills. HELENA MODJESKA HISTORIC HOUSE AND GARDENS Bommer Canyon. Buck Gully Reserve. Crystal Cove State Park. Fremont Canyon Nature Preserve. Helena Modjeska Historic House and Gardens. Irvine Open Space Preserve. Irvine Ranch Historical Park. Irvine Regional Park. Laguna Coast Wilderness Park.

OC PARKS VOLUNTEERS

OC Parks encompasses regional, wilderness and historical facilities, as well as coastal areas throughout the County of Orange in California. Featuring 60,000 acres of parkland, open space and shoreline, Orange County’s award-winning parks and programs are enjoyed by millions of residents and visitors each year, in ways as diverse as the parks themselves. MOUNTAINS TO SEA TRAIL The Mountains to Sea Trail is the backbone of the 50,000 acres of open space preserved on the historic Irvine Ranch. The trail was created through cooperative municipal planning so that people of all ages and abilities could experience the magnitude, magnificence and diversity of the entire landscape of the region. VOLUNTEERING OPPORTUNITIES Volunteer Opportunities. World-class nature experiences abound on the Irvine Ranch Natural Landmarks. Hiking, mountain biking, horseback riding, moonlit nature walks, wildlife viewing, habitat restoration and many more activities are conducted regularly under the leadership of trained Docents, Trail Guides, Land Stewards and other volunteers. HIKING TRAILS IN ORANGE COUNTY, CA Balancing recreation and conservation is the key mission for the partners of the Irvine Ranch Natural Landmarks. While much of the protected lands are open for scheduled activities or docent-led programs only, there are many opportunities to explore on your own. IRVINE OPEN SPACE PRESERVE The City of Irvine Open Space Preserve provides countless ways to connect with nature and enjoy outdoor adventures without traveling far, including hiking, mountain biking, equestrian programs, and naturalist-led tours. Here is the City’s Open Space Mission Statement: The City of Irvine is dedicated to creating and promoting

an awareness of

EARLY MORNING FITNESS HIKE ON HICKS HAUL ROAD: 6-MILES Join us for an exhilarating morning fitness hike on the paved Hicks Haul Road. This hike is a 6-mile route as a group – which is conducted at the speed of about 3.0 to 3.5 miles per hour.. The group may spread out for social distance reasons but generally will remain together for the entire hike. ORCHARD HILLS PARK AND TRAIL Orchard Hills. This three-mile, multi-use trail features a double loop and skirts the edge of a working avocado orchard. The larger 3-mile outer loop is relatively strenuous, with a substantial elevation gain over a short distance in certain sections. The reward for those who conquer the trail is a breath-taking vista from Loma Ridge that BUCK GULLY LOOP HIKE Buck Gully Loop Hike. Come and explore the entire Buck Gully Reserve trail system. Beginning from the Oasis Senior Center, we’ll hike up through the almost 3-mile length of the canyon, then along San Joaquin Hills Road for a bit, stopping at Canyon Watch Park where we will take in the panoramic view of the reserve and the Pacific coastline BLACK STAR CANYON WILDERNESS PARK Black Star Canyon Wilderness Park. An easy gateway to the backcountry of the Cleveland National Forest and the northern Santa Ana Mountains. Black Star Canyon is well-known for many historical stories from both ranching days and the Gabrieleno or Tongva people who were its first residents. Visitors to Black Star and adjacent Baker Canyon are WEIR CANYON NATURE PRESERVE PARK Weir Canyon Nature Preserve. With its deep canyons and steep hillsides, Weir Canyon contains one of the largest and healthiest oak woodlands in Orange County along with an abundance of rare habitats and wildlife. A variety of docent-led hikes, equestrian and mountain bike rides are scheduled and conducted by the Irvine Ranch

Conservancy.

IRVINE RANCH NATURAL LANDMARKS The Irvine Ranch Natural Landmarks is part of the 50,000 acres of land preserved on the historic Irvine Ranch. The Irvine Ranch Natural Landmarks are not only unique in their biological and geological significance, but also in the level of partnership represented across the many organizations and agencies united by a single designation. OUTDOOR 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. VOLUNTEERING OPPORTUNITIES Volunteer Opportunities. World-class nature experiences abound on the Irvine Ranch Natural Landmarks. Hiking, mountain biking, horseback riding, moonlit nature walks, wildlife viewing, habitat restoration and many more activities are conducted regularly under the leadership of trained Docents, Trail Guides, Land Stewards and other volunteers.

OC PARKS VOLUNTEERS

OC Parks encompasses regional, wilderness and historical facilities, as well as coastal areas throughout the County of Orange in California. Featuring 60,000 acres of parkland, open space and shoreline, Orange County’s award-winning parks and programs are enjoyed by millions of residents and visitors each year, in ways as diverse as the parks themselves. MOUNTAINS TO SEA TRAIL The Mountains to Sea Trail is the backbone of the 50,000 acres of open space preserved on the historic Irvine Ranch. The trail was created through cooperative municipal planning so that people of all ages and abilities could experience the magnitude, magnificence and diversity of the entire landscape of the region. LAGUNA COAST WILDERNESS PARK AND HIKING TRAILS The park is owned and operated by OC Parks and the County of Orange, and a variety of guided activities are offered at the park by the non-profit Laguna Canyon Foundation. Open from dawn to dusk for independent hiking, mountain biking and equestrian use on designated trails only. Parking lots are open from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. for $3 per

vehicle.

BOMMER CANYON TRAIL

Bommer Canyon. –OPEN FOR SELF-GUIDED ACCESS & SCHEDULED PROGRAMS–. Rich in both Irvine Ranch lore and nature’s wonders, Bommer Canyon beckons walkers, hikers, and all other outdoor enthusiasts to stroll past ancient oak and sycamore groves and rough rock outcrops. Much like the City’s Quail Hill Loop Trail, specific trails in this area LIMESTONE CANYON NATURE PRESERVE IN CA Limestone Canyon Nature Preserve. This spectacular and lush canyon includes thick oak woodlands, streamside habitats, year-round springs and an iconic geological formation called “the Sinks,” often compared to a mini-Grand Canyon. A rich diversity of plants and animals as well as an unusual variety of natural habitats make

Limestone a true

BUCK GULLY RESERVE IN NEWPORT BEACH Buck Gully Reserve is a natural, coastal canyon in the City of Newport Beach. The canyon is bounded by urbanized areas, including single-family residences, roadways, and the Pelican Hills Golf Course. The watershed draining into Buck Gully encompasses approximately 1,200 acres and includes portions of the San Joaquin foothills. HELENA MODJESKA HISTORIC HOUSE AND GARDENS Bommer Canyon. Buck Gully Reserve. Crystal Cove State Park. Fremont Canyon Nature Preserve. Helena Modjeska Historic House and Gardens. Irvine Open Space Preserve. Irvine Ranch Historical Park. Irvine Regional Park. Laguna Coast Wilderness Park. IRVINE RANCH NATURAL LANDMARKS The Irvine Ranch Natural Landmarks is part of the 50,000 acres of land preserved on the historic Irvine Ranch. The Irvine Ranch Natural Landmarks are not only unique in their biological and geological significance, but also in the level of partnership represented across the many organizations and agencies united by a single designation. OUTDOOR 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. VOLUNTEERING OPPORTUNITIES Volunteer Opportunities. World-class nature experiences abound on the Irvine Ranch Natural Landmarks. Hiking, mountain biking, horseback riding, moonlit nature walks, wildlife viewing, habitat restoration and many more activities are conducted regularly under the leadership of trained Docents, Trail Guides, Land Stewards and other volunteers.

OC PARKS VOLUNTEERS

OC Parks encompasses regional, wilderness and historical facilities, as well as coastal areas throughout the County of Orange in California. Featuring 60,000 acres of parkland, open space and shoreline, Orange County’s award-winning parks and programs are enjoyed by millions of residents and visitors each year, in ways as diverse as the parks themselves. MOUNTAINS TO SEA TRAIL The Mountains to Sea Trail is the backbone of the 50,000 acres of open space preserved on the historic Irvine Ranch. The trail was created through cooperative municipal planning so that people of all ages and abilities could experience the magnitude, magnificence and diversity of the entire landscape of the region. LAGUNA COAST WILDERNESS PARK AND HIKING TRAILS The park is owned and operated by OC Parks and the County of Orange, and a variety of guided activities are offered at the park by the non-profit Laguna Canyon Foundation. Open from dawn to dusk for independent hiking, mountain biking and equestrian use on designated trails only. Parking lots are open from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. for $3 per

vehicle.

BOMMER CANYON TRAIL

Bommer Canyon. –OPEN FOR SELF-GUIDED ACCESS & SCHEDULED PROGRAMS–. Rich in both Irvine Ranch lore and nature’s wonders, Bommer Canyon beckons walkers, hikers, and all other outdoor enthusiasts to stroll past ancient oak and sycamore groves and rough rock outcrops. Much like the City’s Quail Hill Loop Trail, specific trails in this area LIMESTONE CANYON NATURE PRESERVE IN CA Limestone Canyon Nature Preserve. This spectacular and lush canyon includes thick oak woodlands, streamside habitats, year-round springs and an iconic geological formation called “the Sinks,” often compared to a mini-Grand Canyon. A rich diversity of plants and animals as well as an unusual variety of natural habitats make

Limestone a true

BUCK GULLY RESERVE IN NEWPORT BEACH Buck Gully Reserve is a natural, coastal canyon in the City of Newport Beach. The canyon is bounded by urbanized areas, including single-family residences, roadways, and the Pelican Hills Golf Course. The watershed draining into Buck Gully encompasses approximately 1,200 acres and includes portions of the San Joaquin foothills. HELENA MODJESKA HISTORIC HOUSE AND GARDENS Bommer Canyon. Buck Gully Reserve. Crystal Cove State Park. Fremont Canyon Nature Preserve. Helena Modjeska Historic House and Gardens. Irvine Open Space Preserve. Irvine Ranch Historical Park. Irvine Regional Park. Laguna Coast Wilderness Park. EXPLORE THE LAND, MOUNTAINS AND COAST Explore the Land. The Irvine Ranch Natural Landmarks stretch in a giant green crescent from Weir Canyon near the 91 Freeway at the north end of the Irvine Ranch connect with the Cleveland National Forest along the ranch’s northeastern border continue south where they include the massive regional open space network in the northern and IRVINE OPEN SPACE PRESERVE Irvine Open Space Preserve. The City of Irvine Open Space Preserve provides countless ways to connect with nature and enjoy outdoor adventures without traveling far, including hiking, mountain biking, equestrian programs and naturalist-led tours. Here is the City’s Open Space Mission Statement: FAMILY HIKE: BLACK STAR CANYON Enjoy an early morning family hike in Black Star Canyon, part of the Irvine Ranch Natural Landmarks. We will hike along a flat trail and cross a creek as we watch for red-tailed hawks and mule deer. The hike will Continue reading → HIKING TRAILS IN ORANGE COUNTY, CA Balancing recreation and conservation is the key mission for the partners of the Irvine Ranch Natural Landmarks. While much of the protected lands are open for scheduled activities or docent-led programs only, there are many opportunities to explore on your own. QUAIL HILL PARK AND TRAIL Quail Hill. The 2.8-acre Quail Hill Trailhead provides a great location to connect to southern Irvine’s extensive trail network. The trailhead is located at the end of Sand Canyon Road and marks the beginning of the Quail Hill Loop Trail, an easy two-mile natural surface trail at the foot of Quail Hill that is open to the public

from dawn to

HELENA MODJESKA HISTORIC HOUSE AND GARDENS Bommer Canyon. Buck Gully Reserve. Crystal Cove State Park. Fremont Canyon Nature Preserve. Helena Modjeska Historic House and Gardens. Irvine Open Space Preserve. Irvine Ranch Historical Park. Irvine Regional Park. Laguna Coast Wilderness Park. BLACK STAR CANYON WILDERNESS PARK Black Star Canyon Wilderness Park. An easy gateway to the backcountry of the Cleveland National Forest and the northern Santa Ana Mountains. Black Star Canyon is well-known for many historical stories from both ranching days and the Gabrieleno or Tongva people who were its first residents. Visitors to Black Star and adjacent Baker Canyon are WEIR CANYON NATURE PRESERVE PARK Weir Canyon Nature Preserve. With its deep canyons and steep hillsides, Weir Canyon contains one of the largest and healthiest oak woodlands in Orange County along with an abundance of rare habitats and wildlife. A variety of docent-led hikes, equestrian and mountain bike rides are scheduled and conducted by the Irvine Ranch

Conservancy.

ORCHARD HILLS PARK AND TRAIL Orchard Hills. This three-mile, multi-use trail features a double loop and skirts the edge of a working avocado orchard. The larger 3-mile outer loop is relatively strenuous, with a substantial elevation gain over a short distance in certain sections. The reward for those who conquer the trail is a breath-taking vista from Loma Ridge that BUCK GULLY LOOP HIKE Buck Gully Loop Hike. Come and explore the entire Buck Gully Reserve trail system. Beginning from the Oasis Senior Center, we’ll hike up through the almost 3-mile length of the canyon, then along San Joaquin Hills Road for a bit, stopping at Canyon Watch Park where we will take in the panoramic view of the reserve and the Pacific coastline

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BUCK GULLY LOOP HIKE Come and explore the entire Buck Gully Reserve trail system. Beginning from the Oasis Senior Center, we’ll hike up through the almost 3-mile length of the canyon, then along San…

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Learn more about Buck Gully Reserve

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MODERATE-PACED MOUNTAIN BIKE RIDE: FREMONT, BLIND, WEIR CANYON Experienced mountain bikers can explore one of the most rugged and remote areas of the Irvine Ranch Natural Landmarks from the trails of Fremont Canyon Nature Preserve on this moderate-paced…

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WATERWORKS NATURE HIKE: FREMONT CANYON Join an OC Parks staff-led interpretive nature hike along the “Waterworks Trail” in the Irvine Ranch Open Space.  We’ll depart from Irvine Regional Park “Lot P” and head towards the

beautiful…

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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. We’ll experience mature coastal sage scrub and fantastic views overlooking the city of Irvine and…

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EARLY MORNING FITNESS HIKE ON HICKS HAUL ROAD: 6-MILES Join us for an exhilarating morning fitness hike on the paved Hicks Haul Road. This hike is a 6-mile route as a group – which is conducted at the speed…

Sign Up Now

Learn more about Limestone Canyon Nature Preserve

*

BUCK GULLY LOOP HIKE Come and explore the entire Buck Gully Reserve trail system. Beginning from the Oasis Senior Center, we’ll hike up through the almost 3-mile length of the canyon, then along San…

Sign Up Now

Learn more about Buck Gully Reserve

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MODERATE-PACED MOUNTAIN BIKE RIDE: FREMONT, BLIND, WEIR CANYON Experienced mountain bikers can explore one of the most rugged and remote areas of the Irvine Ranch Natural Landmarks from the trails of Fremont Canyon Nature Preserve on this moderate-paced…

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Learn more about Fremont Canyon Nature Preserve

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IRVINE RANCH NATURAL LANDMARKS

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* AboutLearn about the land * As Rare as a Rainforest * Hitting the Trails * Partners on the Land * ActivitiesSign up for programs

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* ExploreTake a tour of the land * Big Canyon Nature Park * Black Star Canyon Wilderness Park

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* Buck Gully Reserve * Crystal Cove State Park * Fremont Canyon Nature Preserve * Helena Modjeska Historic House and Gardens * Irvine Open Space Preserve * Irvine Ranch Historical Park * Irvine Regional Park * Laguna Coast Wilderness Park * Limestone Canyon Nature Preserve * Mason Regional Park * Modjeska Canyon Nature Preserve

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* Weir Canyon Nature Preserve * Whiting Ranch Wilderness Park * VolunteerSee how you can help * Single-Day Volunteers * Become a Volunteer

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DISCOVER

OC’S ONLY NATIONAL NATURAL LANDMARK. Nearly 40,000 acres of open space on the historic Irvine Ranch have been designated a Natural Landmark by both the State of California and the U.S. Department of the Interior. This honor recognizes the exceptional value of these lands to California and the entire nation. The Irvine Ranch Natural Landmarks is part of the 50,000 acres of land preserved on the historic Irvine Ranch. > The Irvine Ranch Natural Landmarks are not only unique in their > biological and geological significance, but also in the level of > partnership represented across the many organizations and agencies > united by a single designation. Click here

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> to view a list of Partners on the Land. THE NATIONAL LANDMARK IN YOUR BACK YARD

The

Irvine Ranch Natural Landmarks received national recognition in 2006 when protected land on the former Irvine Ranch was singled out for its rare biological and geological features through designation as a National Natural Landmark. This designation is awarded by the U.S. Secretary of the Interior for natural areas in both public and private

ownership.

National Natural Landmarks are recognized as outstanding examples of the natural heritage of the country alongside national parks, recreation areas and national monuments. Nationwide, fewer than 600 sites have received this designation.

Then,

on Earth Day 2008, nearly 40,000 acres was designated the first California Natural Landmark , under a new state program that officially recognizes and encourages the stewardship of extraordinary examples of natural resources. The Irvine Ranch Natural Landmarks contain important natural habitats and unusual geological formations. The landscape is home to hundreds of species of plants and animals, including eagles, badgers, mountain lions, Tecate cypress trees, and many rare species of birds, reptiles, amphibians and plants. Scientists have identified this region as one of the world’s biodiversity “hot spots” — an area with large concentrations of different species. VISIT THE ACTIVITIES PAGE OR SCROLL THROUGH THE PHOTOS BELOW TO DISCOVER THE IRVINE RANCH

NATURAL LANDMARKS.

PARTNERS ON THE LAND Learn more about the partners of the Irvine Ranch Natural Landmarks. The Irvine Ranch Natural Landmarks encompasses acres of beautiful natural habitat, and miles of hiking and biking trails. Find out more about these lands, and what activities are available near you.

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