*This program begins at the James Dilley Preserve, 350 Artisan Dr., Laguna Beach, CA 92651*

Did you know California is a biodiversity hotspot? Help scientists and OC Parks naturalists document the species found in Laguna Coast Wilderness Park and learn about California’s unique biodiverse flora and fauna while using iNaturalist. Participants will then go on a hike and document the species along the way! 

Participants are encouraged to download the iNaturalist mobile app and create an account before arriving to the program. You will choose the trail you want to hike.  

This program is for ages 7 and older. Minors must be accompanied by a guardian. 

Advance registration required. Learn more and register here.   

The program is free and parking is $3 per vehicle. 

For questions, please contact Resource Specialist Shelbi Richardson at shelbi.richardson@ocparks.com.

Adverse weather, including wet or muddy trail conditions, may cancel the program.

Please be aware this is a fitness hike and not for beginners; the pace is approximately a 19-minute mile. 

Raise your heart rate and your spirits on this difficult, strenuous and fast-paced, 7.2-mile hike over steep and uneven terrain with 1,050 feet of elevation gain. Please wear closed-toe shoes, sun protection and bring water.

The program will begin at the Nix Nature Center parking lot. 

Advance registration required. Learn more and register here.

Participants must be 16 or older. Anyone under 18 must be accompanied by a guardian.

The program is free and parking is $3 per vehicle. 

Adverse weather may cancel this program.  

Join OC Parks on a guided hike and learn about key landmarks, trail connections, scenic viewpoints and the incredible wildlife and native plants within Laguna Coast Wilderness Park! We’ll share tips for exploring and stewarding the land responsibly along the way. This program is perfect for first-time visitors, new volunteers or anyone who wants to feel more at home in the coastal canyons. 

This moderate hike is approximately 5 miles with 800 feet of elevation gain.

The program is designed for ages 12 and older. Anyone under 18 must be accompanied by a guardian. Closed-toe shoes, sun protection and plenty of water are recommended. 

Advance registration required. Learn more and register here.

The program is free and parking is $3 per vehicle.

Adverse weather may cancel the program. 

Join OC Parks staff and volunteers for our monthly program where art meets ecology! Come explore the natural world through the lens of creativity by painting your own ceramic coaster.

This program will feature a brief nature walk focused on the summertime ecology of our native plants. We’ll then paint our own ceramic coasters using nature at the Bay as our inspiration!

All program materials will be provided. Please wear closed-toe shoes and clothes that you don’t mind getting dirty. This program is designed for ages 14 and older.

The program and parking are free.

Advance registration is required. Learn more and register here.

Adverse weather will move the program fully indoors.

For questions, please contact Resource Specialist Emma Arago at emma.arago@ocparks.com or call (657) 692-5401.

*This program takes place at Heritage Hill Historical Park, 25151 Serrano Rd., Lake Forest, CA 92630*

The OC Parks Jr. Ranger Program encourages park guests to explore the outdoor world within OC Parks by developing a sense of belonging, becoming a part of nature and feeling empowered to be stewards of Orange County’s natural and cultural resources.

Participants will explore Heritage Hill Historical Park, complete activities and take the OC Parks Jr. Ranger Oath to earn a unique Jr. Ranger badge.

This program is designed for ages 7 to 12, but all are welcome.

Minors must be accompanied by a parent or guardian during the program. Sunscreen, sturdy footwear and water are recommended. 

The program and parking are free. Inclement weather will cancel the program.

Advance registration is required. Learn more and register here.

For questions, please contact Interpretive Programs Curator Nathan Taxel, nathan.taxel@ocparks.com.

Click here to learn more about the OC Parks Jr. Ranger Program.

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

Come help us heal the wildlands within the Landmarks! When you sign up, check the confirmation email to see tips on how to be prepared for your time with us.

Please note that you will be asked to adhere to the following measures in order to participate:

• Be registered in advance, no walk-up registration is permitted.
• Arrive with all necessary equipment to keep you safe, including water, snacks, sun protection, long pants, closed-toe footwear, first aid, health needs etc.
• Restrooms will be available, but facilities will not be sanitized for each individual.
• All participants are required to sign a liability waiver upon arrival at the staging area and before beginning the activity. The waiver can be previewed here: IRC Liability Waiver
• Please note our Minors Policy for all public activities: All minors (under 18 years of age) must be accompanied by their respective parent or legal guardian. Both parent and their accompanying minor(s) must be registered for the Irvine Ranch Conservancy led activity they wish to attend.

Note: Activity leaders may turn away participants who are under-prepared and wearing improper attire for work at the Native Seed Farm. This is for your own safety and to ensure an enjoyable experience for everyone who attends.

Additionally, in an effort to respect and protect all employees, volunteers, and participants, please do not sign up or attend if you are not feeling well, exhibiting any symptoms of illness or have been in recent contact with someone who was ill.

Reviewing the 1-5 Difficulty Ratings will help you evaluate your readiness to participate in this Level 3 activity. Activities may include bending, stooping, crouching, squatting, long periods of standing, reaching, pulling, grabbing, and pushing.

Learn more and register here

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

Participants should be confident in their ability to hike 3, 6, or 8 miles at a steady pace. Please come prepared with proper hiking attire, ample water and adequate sun protection. Because of the paved surface, you may wear walking or running shoes instead of hiking boots. For the longer distances, at least 2 quarts of water (64 oz) is recommended. Ages 16 and up.

Please note that you will be asked to adhere to the following measures in order to participate:

• Be registered in advance, no walk-up registration is permitted.
• Arrive with all necessary equipment to keep you safe on the trail, including water, proper attire, and closed-toe footwear, first aid, health needs etc.
• Restrooms will be available, but facilities will not be sanitized for each individual.
• All participants are required to sign a liability waiver upon arrival at the staging area and before beginning the activity. The waiver can be previewed here: IRC Liability Waiver
• You may be prevented from participating if you do not adhere to the above protocols.

Additionally, in an effort to respect and protect all employees, volunteers, and participants, please do not sign up or attend if you are not feeling well, exhibiting any symptoms of illness or have been in recent contact with someone who was ill.

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.

Learn more and register here

Come along with us on this scenic distance hike through Limestone Canyon and Red Rock Wilderness, part of OC Parks’ Irvine Ranch Open Space.  This hike is done at a moderate moving pace of around 3 mph and may involve two seasonal low-water stream crossings. As we pass across the top of the Red Rocks, the panoramic view of the surrounding area is nothing short of spectacular.

Please note that the route for this hike may be shortened or altered due to trail conditions or adverse weather.

Please come prepared with a sturdy day pack, water, snacks, closed-toed hiking shoes or boots, sunscreen, and all other supplies to keep you safe and healthy on the trail.  All participants must carry their own pack and water. Please make sure you bring 2 quarts of water.  Under-prepared participants may be denied access to this activity.

Please note that you will be asked to adhere to the following measures in order to participate:

• Be registered in advance, no walk-up registration is permitted.
• Arrive with all necessary equipment to keep you safe on the trail, including water, proper attire, and closed-toe footwear, first aid, health needs etc.
• Restrooms will be available, but facilities will not be sanitized for each individual.
• All participants are required to sign a liability waiver upon arrival at the staging area and before beginning the activity. The waiver can be previewed here: IRC Liability Waiver
• You may be prevented from participating if you do not adhere to the above protocols.

Additionally, in an effort to respect and protect all employees, volunteers, and participants, please do not sign up or attend if you are not feeling well, exhibiting any symptoms of illness or have been in recent contact with someone who was ill.

Reviewing the 1-through-5 Difficulty Ratings will help you evaluate your readiness to participate in this level-5 activity on the land. To learn more about the staging areas and activity locations, please visit our Staging Areas Playlist page.

Learn more and register here

Escape into the stunning landscapes of the Irvine Ranch Natural Landmarks with a one of kind family hiking experience. Our guided walk features a friendly horse, offering a special opportunity to interact with these magnificent animals while exploring the natural beauty of Southern California. This walk is perfect for all ages and abilities. It’s a chance to create long-lasting memories and foster a love for both horses and nature.

Please note: This hiking activity is for educational purposes. Participants should not bring their own horses as this is not an equestrian ride.

Please note that you will be asked to adhere to the following measures during the activity in order to participate:

• Be registered in advance, no walk-up registration is permitted.
• Arrive with all necessary equipment to keep you safe on the trail, including water, proper attire, and closed-toe footwear, first aid, health needs etc.
• Restrooms will be available, but facilities will not be sanitized for each individual.
• All participants are required to sign a liability waiver upon arrival at the staging area and before beginning the activity. The waiver can be previewed here: IRC Liability Waiver
• You may be prevented from participating if you do not adhere to the above protocols.

Children under the age of 5 are permitted to attend the hike if they are secured in a carrier.

Additionally, in an effort to respect and protect all employees, volunteers, and participants, please do not sign up or attend if you are not feeling well, exhibiting any symptoms of illness or have been in recent contact with someone who was ill.

Learn more and register here

Visitors to IRC’s Native Seed Farm are first greeted by our Demonstration Garden, providing inspiration for regionally suitable plant gardens. Our garden hosts a variety of native plant species which support a healthy local ecosystem!

IRC Volunteers are invited to help at our monthly Garden Maintenance Day! Our tasks each day are to be determined, but we’ll be tackling whatever jobs are a top priority to keep our Garden teeming with native plant life. Weeding, clearing, cutting, digging, watering, whatever it takes! Activities may include bending, stooping, crouching, squatting, long periods of standing, reaching, pulling, grabbing, and pushing.

Just like all settings on the Landmarks, please always be aware of your surroundings. There may be unseen and hidden dangers in the area, as well as wildlife crossing through finding refuge. Please be sure to follow all instructions provided to you from your lead during this activity and follow standard trail protocols, including remaining in areas that are designated for your use only.

Please note that you will be asked to adhere to the following measures in order to participate:

• Be registered in advance, no walk-up registration is permitted.
• Arrive with all necessary equipment to keep you safe on the trail, including water, proper attire, and closed-toe footwear, first aid, health needs etc.
• Restrooms will be available, but facilities will not be sanitized for each individual.
• All participants are required to sign a liability waiver upon arrival at the staging area and before beginning the activity. The waiver can be previewed here: IRC Liability Waiver
• You may be prevented from participating if you do not adhere to the above protocols.

Additionally, in an effort to respect and protect all employees, volunteers, and participants, please do not sign up or attend if you are not feeling well, exhibiting any symptoms of illness or have been in recent contact with someone who was ill.

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. To learn more about the staging areas and activity locations, please visit our Staging Areas Playlist page.

Learn more and register here