Blog Archives

Choose Your Own (Outdoor) Adventure

8/29/2014

Whether you are looking for an activity that will get your heart pumping or simply seeking a quiet escape into nature, you’ll find it in Black Star Canyon.

Going on a docent-led activity is a great way to experience the Irvine Ranch Natural Landmarks because a trained naturalist helps you become familiar with the trails and learn about the native species. While participating in a group is beneficial, hitting the trails on your own by foot, bike, or horse allows you to find your own pace and choose your own stops. You and your friends or family can explore local open space during monthly Wilderness Access Days.

Taking Fitness Outdoors on Hicks Haul Road

8/22/2014

Gain additional health benefits from outdoor exercise versus working out in a gym.

Before taking another trip to the gym, consider a change of scenery from your regular fitness routine. More and more studies show the positive benefits of spending time outdoors, so exercising outdoors seems to be the perfect combination for your mind, body, and soul.

Exercising outdoors exposes you to natural sunlight and increases your intake of vitamin D. This time outdoors also offers a break from technology and a busy lifestyle. Hicks Haul Road is a great choice of a fitness spot for people who want a rewarding outdoor workout. The hike offers spectacular views of Irvine, but doesn't require any special gear other than normal running shoes. While the road is paved, the surroundings are wild, with active natural habitats and plenty of opportunities for wildlife sightings.

Expert Help with Late Summer Birding

8/15/2014

Learn about birding or refresh your skills before the birds head south for the winter.

Just like you, birds are enjoying the last weeks of summer, and they’ve earned it. Birds have been busy in spring and summer building nests, having babies, and caring for them. After breeding, the molting season begins. All birds must replace their feathers, or molt, because feathers wear out over time.

As birds grow these new feathers, they are particularly vulnerable. They may not be able to fly as well during this time, and like to lie low and not attract the attention of predators. This may make seeing birds challenging this time of year. Attending a birding program with an expert naturalist will teach you where and how to look for these elusive birds.

Savor the End of Summer

8/8/2014

Make the most of the last weeks of summer with outdoor fun for the whole family.

Summer vacation is quickly coming to an end and kids will be going back to school soon. Make the most of the remaining days of summer with these upcoming, kid-friendly activities on the Irvine Ranch Natural Landmarks. Participants of all ages will learn about how native animals live in our local areas.

Just like families, butterflies, bees and hummingbirds are always on the move. Search for these fascinating creatures at Popular Pollinators on Thursday, August 14 from 9am – 11am. This docent-led activity is in OC Parks' Limestone Canyon, which has a large number of native plants and trees making it an ideal spot to see these pollinators in action. This easy, 2.5-mile hike is for ages 8 and up.

Walking on the Wild Side with Your Little Ones

8/7/2014

New programs for kids connect little ones to the local wilderness.

If your little ones love the outdoors and seem a little like wild animals when they play, you might want to bring them to some new kid-friendly activities in Bommer Canyon. They can learn about how real animals live in the wild, and maybe expend a little energy in the process.

Two new programs begin in April: Wee Wonder Walks and Canyon Explorers. Let by an Irvine Ranch Conservancy naturalist, these programs are especially tailored to kids 2-6 (Wee Wonder Walks) and 6-10 (Canyon Explorers). Both programs incorporate a nature walk and activities such as crafts or storytelling. Wee Wonder Walks are the second Thursday of every month and Canyon Explorers are the third Friday of every month, both through September.

Unplug and Reconnect with Nature

8/1/2014

Irvine Ranch Conservancy is working with land owners like OC Parks to bring people and nature together.

Research is mounting about the health benefits of spending more time outdoors – not only the exercise, but of simply being in a natural setting. As we spend more time indoors and in front of digital screens, taking a break to connect with nature can help undo some of the negative effects of increasingly tech-heavy lifestyles. Luckily, there are places like Black Star Canyon, where OC Parks and Irvine Ranch Conservancy offer rides, hikes and nature walks to help you slow down and reconnect with nature.

The portion of Black Star Canyon owned by OC Parks includes Baker Canyon, part of nearly 40,000 acres of the former Irvine Ranch that have been designated as both a National and California Natural Landmark for its rare biological and geological features. The land is permanently protected as a nature preserve, with plenty of scheduled and docent-led activities to suit nearly any interest and ability.

Choose Your Own (Outdoor) Adventure

Taking Fitness Outdoors on Hicks Haul Road

Expert Help with Late Summer Birding

Savor the End of Summer

Walking on the Wild Side with Your Little Ones

Unplug and Reconnect with Nature

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