Irvine Ranch Natural Landmarks Presents Group Hikes And More Orange County Events

Orange County has some of the best landscapes in the world, so it’s no surprise that the area is home to beautiful hiking trails. Luckily, Irvine Ranch Natural Landmarks has teamed up with several organizations to create group hiking opportunities so you can get to know the natural Californian environment. If you enjoy being outdoors, want to make new friends, or love to look at gorgeous views, then these types of Orange County events are perfect for you. Here’s a look at some of their upcoming hikes that you can sign up for:

All of the below hikes have been put together by various Orange County organizations. Their goal is to have a safe and fun adventure. In doing so, they ask that participants sign up for these hikes ahead of time and bring a signed liability waiver. To find links for registration and the waiver, as well as information for other future hikes, head over to the Irvine Ranch Natural Landmarks website. 

1) Sunset Stroll at Black Star Canyon 

Located in Silverado, Black Star Canyon is one of the most popular trails in Orange County. Known for its rocky terrain, interesting backstory, and moderate difficulty, Black Star Canyon has become a personal favorite for many locals in the area. For this adventure, you can join a group of hikers for a relaxing and leisurely stroll through nature at dusk. You’ll be able to experience wildlife like never before as you’re enveloped by the sounds and sights of nature in the evening, all while learning all about the native environment.

Date and time: 06/02/21 from 6:30 pm – 8:00 pm 

Location: Black Star Canyon Wilderness Park

Distance: 3.5 miles

Minimum age to attend: 16 

2) Art on The Landmarks at Baker Meadow 

Baker Meadow is a treasure tucked away in Black Star Canyon. If you come during the right time, you can expect to find lush green grass, wildflowers, and the calls of birds chirping. The purpose of this hike is to find artistic inspiration in the stunning views of nature. After hiking a short distance, your guide will lead your group to a beautiful location in the meadow that’s sure to jog your creativity. There, you’ll take a generous hours-long break to take in the scenery, be inspired, and create a masterpiece with whatever art supplies you chose to bring. 

Date and time: 06/04/21 from 2:00 pm – 6:00 pm 

Location: Black Star Canyon Wilderness Park 

Distance: 2 miles

Minimum age to attend: 16 

3) National Trails Day Trash Clean Up 

This kid-friendly adventure is perfect for the whole family to do something good for Mother Earth! Traditionally, the American Hiking Society uses the first Saturday of June as a day for the community to come together and participate in Orange County events that help clean up public lands. Their goal is to keep the area looking nice by clearing the trash off the trails we love to use. In keeping with tradition, OC Parks is hosting a clean-up at Upper Newport Bay. This preserve is a beautiful location right off of Newport Beach, where you’ll find bluffs, wetlands, and plenty of wildlife. Trash pick-up tools will be provided by the organizers. All they ask is that you and your family show up ready to participate and return the bay back to its pristine state! 

Date and time: 06/05/21 from 10:00 am – 12:00 pm 

Location: Upper Newport Bay Nature Preserve 

Minimum age to attend: 6 

4) Animal Tracking in Fremont Canyon 

Fremont Canyon Nature Preserve is known for its beautiful rock formations, ridgelines, and caves. Here, you’ll be treated to picturesque views that you just can’t quite find anywhere else. You’ll also find all sorts of interesting habitats that snakes, rock wrens, mountain lions, bobcats, coyotes, eagles, mule deer, and sparrows call home. On this hike, you’ll join a group of people to search for evidence that these critters are all around you! From analyzing fur, shelters, tracks and prints, bones, food, and droppings, you’ll learn all the basic skills necessary to track the types of animals around you. 

Date and time: 06/12/21 from 8:00 am – 11:00 am 

Location: Fremont Canyon Nature Preserve 

Distance: 3 miles

Minimum age to attend: 12 

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