​Interpretive programs help visitors connect with nature through unique experiences
 
If you’re looking to learn more about local Orange County habitats, then look no further and check out the interpretive activities offered by Irvine Ranch Conservancy and its partners. You’ve probably noticed the different categories while browsing activities on LetsGoOutside.org, and might have been left wondering what exactly an interpretive activity is. Interpretive activities are designed to focus on helping visitors enjoy their time outdoors, while also learning about nature. Led by Irvine Ranch Conservancy volunteers, some interpretive activities are interactive while others are more of an educational discussion. No matter what you’re interested in, there’s bound to be an interpretive activity for you!
 
Have you ever wondered what happens on the Landmarks when the sun goes down? Irvine Ranch Conservancy Full Moon Hikes give hikers the chance to experience the trails after sunset, taking in the night sounds and smells under moonlight, while discussing the night sky. These popular hikes are for a range of different ages, so be sure to check the difficulty rating before signing up.

​Spend time exploring the Irvine Ranch Natural Landmarks with your loved ones
 
Give the gift of nature this Valentine’s Day and spend quality time outdoors with the ones who matter most to you. Surprise that special someone, or your friends and family, with an outdoor adventure. Together you can explore the native wildlife as the wildflowers begin to bloom and animals become more active. With Irvine Ranch Conservancy’s full calendar of activities, you can switch up your traditional Valentine’s Day plans and experience the beauty of the Irvine Ranch Natural Landmarks. 
 
Take date night outdoors with one of the many evening hikes that let you explore the landmarks one trail at a time. The Orchard Hills Evening Hike explores the Orchard Hills Loop trail as it meanders around an avocado orchard on the edge of the Irvine Ranch Open Space Preserve. You and your loved one can take in the sights, as this hike provides fantastic ridge-top views of Irvine and the Pacific Coastline. Another evening hike to enjoy together is the After Work Fitness Hike on Paved Hicks Haul Road. This fitness-focused hike allows you to watch the sunset with panoramic views of the Orange County horizon.

​Irvine Ranch Conservancy offers activities you’ll want to do over and over again
                       
Every year on February 2, we look forward to Punxsutawney Phil making his weather prediction for the next six weeks. While this may not be the most accurate weather prediction, it’s all in good fun! Luckily, in Orange County, we don’t have to worry too much about Phil’s yearly prediction. With favorable weather all year long, there’s no reason to hibernate during the winter.
 
Irvine Ranch Conservancy is here to help with an extensive list of activities that allow you to explore the Irvine Ranch Natural Landmarks and will leave you coming back for more. Unfortunately, you won’t see any groundhogs out on the Landmarks, but there are plenty of other native species to look out for. Through LetsGoOutside.org, you can discover a wide range of weekly and monthly activities that allow you to workout, learn something new, give back, and spend time with family and friends. The possibilities are endless!​

F​amilies, fitness enthusiasts, and dog lovers can all experience this unique trail daily, from dawn to dusk
                       
The 2.8 acre Quail Hill Trailhead opened to the public in June of 2007 and is conveniently located near the 405 freeway on Shady Canyon Drive. Despite the trail’s close proximity to the freeway, the loop is removed enough to provide a peaceful outdoor experience for bikers, hikers, and your four-legged friends. The Landmarks feature many special places unlike anywhere else and among them, the Quail Hill Preserve is a distinctive and ideal location for outdoor enthusiasts of all levels. Quail Hill hosts stewardship activities and docent-led hikes monthly and is open for self-guided access daily, from dawn to dusk.
 
Unlike other wilderness trails within the Irvine Ranch Natural Landmarks, Quail Hill is the only trail open to dogs, as long as they are on a leash and stay on the trail. Quail Hill also hosts the first trailside cell phone audio tour in Orange County where you can dial in for free to hear natural resource interpreters and researchers explain important features along the trail. The audio tour can be enjoyed while on the trail or from anywhere with a phone or any other portable device. Visit www.letsgooutside.org/quail-hill for more information on how to dial in to listen to the tour.

​Whether you are looking to be active, give back to the local community, or spend time with friends and family, Irvine Ranch Natural Landmarks has you covered
 
Based on the influx of gym attendees in the month of January, it’s safe to say that one of the most popular New Year’s resolutions is to exercise more and get in shape. If exercising in a crowded gym isn’t your ideal workout, then try getting outside and exploring this year, while getting fit! Whether you’re looking to burn off those holiday treats or simply be more active, the Irvine Ranch Natural Landmarks can provide you with an outdoor alternative to the traditional gym workout.
 
With nearly 40,000 acres of open space on the historic Irvine Ranch and a wide variety of activities each year including hiking, biking, equestrian, restoration programs and more, visitors can choose their own outdoor adventure and stay on track with their New Year’s resolutions. Whether you prefer an early morning bike ride or an evening hike, there is something for everyone to enjoy.