Category: Black Star Canyon

Things to Do During Wilderness Access Day in Black Star Canyon

2/27/2020

A picturesque route in Black Star Canyon

Now that the weather is starting to warm up and signs of spring are sprouting across the Irvine Ranch Natural Landmarks, nature enthusiasts interested in exploring the Landmarks should look no further than Silverado - home to Black Star Canyon. An easy gateway to the backcountry of the Cleveland National Forest and the northern Santa Ana Mountains, Black Star Canyon has a combination of fascinating local history, geological formations, and a variety of native flora and fauna.

With Black Star Canyon’s inland location, winter and spring are ideal seasons to explore the area and all it has to offer, while wildflowers are in bloom and before temperatures get too hot. Nature lovers are invited to explore Black Star Canyon and Baker Canyon during the upcoming Wilderness Access Day on Saturday, March 7 from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. Here are four great reasons to explore Black Star Canyon during Wilderness Access Day:

Black Star Canyon Trails and Views Are Worth the Trip

8/22/2019

Black Star Canyon

The canyon marks the boundary between the northeastern expanse of the Irvine Ranch Natural Landmarks and the Cleveland National Forest beyond.

Want to take in panoramic views of soaring red rock cliffs, vistas of Irvine Lake, and—on clear days—a peek at Catalina Island? Then take advantage of Black Star Canyon Wilderness Park, where miles of varied trails offer pleasant strolls for beginning hikers and families, and also challenging experiences for seasoned trail users.

Black Star Canyon and the adjacent Baker Canyon are historical hot spots, with tales and stories harkening to the region’s ranching days, its once-numerous population of California grizzly bears, and the region’s first residents—the Gabrieleño-Tongva peoples.

Choose Your Own Adventure During Wilderness Access Days

12/8/2017

A mountain biker enjoys Bommer Canyon.

Explore the Irvine Ranch Natural Landmarks during Wilderness Access Days to enjoy self-guided access on the lands

Whether visitors are newcomers looking to discover the Irvine Ranch Natural Landmarks for the first time or returning to the lands for a new adventure, Wilderness Access Days give visitors of all skill levels and interests the chance to get outside and connect with nature. Keep reading for more information on Wilderness Access Days and to register for the next program!

Wilderness Access Days give the community self-guided access through the open spaces on the Irvine Ranch Natural Landmarks. Hikers, bikers, and equestrians have an opportunity to explore trails within the City of Irvine’s Bommer Canyon, and OC Parks’ Limestone Canyon Nature Preserve and Black Star Canyon Wilderness Park.

Rise and Shine on the Irvine Ranch Natural Landmarks

11/3/2017

Hikers enjoy an early morning stroll on Hicks Haul Road in Limestone Canyon Nature Preserve.

Don't let Daylight Savings Time keep you indoors, explore the lands during morning programs for fresh air and exercise on the Landmarks

The clocks turn back on Sunday, November 5, but there's still plenty of time to explore the Irvine Ranch Natural Landmarks! The Landmarks are home to many self-guided trails and activities across the open spaces, and with the end of daylight savings time comes earlier mornings that give trail enthusiasts more time to start their day in the great outdoors. Rise and shine on the Landmarks this fall and throughout the year by registering for a morning program.

“The Landmarks are home to many morning fitness, recreational, and interpretive programs that allow the community to start their day with fresh air, sweeping views, and exercise” commented Dave Raetz, Irvine Ranch Conservancy Deputy Director. “Whether visitors are looking to kick off their day with an invigorating 8-mile hike through Limestone Canyon Nature Preserve or ease into the day with a morning of Tai Chi in Black Star Canyon Wilderness Park, there’s a wide variety of programs to suit all ages and interests on the Landmarks.”

Travel Through the Irvine Ranch Natural Landmarks by Saddle

9/22/2017

Riders enjoy Limestone Canyon in the afternoon.

Equestrians can experience the open spaces during self-guided and docent-led activities.

Nature lovers can explore the Irvine Ranch Natural Landmarks by registering for hiking, biking, and interpretive programs, and outdoor enthusiasts who own or have access to a horse can saddle up and join the fun on the open spaces! A variety of equestrian programs welcome the community to trot through designated trails on the Landmarks, where rare and native species cohabitate in Southern California’s Mediterranean climate.

“The Landmarks are home to many diverse terrains, and equestrians can experience the lands by registering for programs throughout the year,” commented Dave Raetz, Deputy Director of Irvine Ranch Conservancy. “Riders are invited to bring their horse to the Landmarks during designated activities and take in some of Orange County’s most beautiful open spaces by saddle.”

Explore Black Star Canyon and Learn About its Storied Past

8/24/2017

Black Star Canyon has provided food and shelter to wildlife and humans for centuries.

Once the dwelling place of native Tongva peoples, once held under Spanish and Mexican rule, and once home to a coal mining operation, Black Star Canyon Wilderness Park has provided people and animals alike with food, shelter, and prosperity throughout its history. Today, the canyon is enjoyed by thousands of visitors each year and offers both introductory trails for beginner hikers and families and more challenging experiences for advanced trail users. Whether visitors want to explore the native plants and wildlife on a 30-minute stroll, or tackle a 7-mile cardio excursion, the canyon’s diverse history enriches the trails throughout the park.

Black Star Canyon Trails and Views Are Worth the Trip

7/5/2017

A hiker crosses from Baker Trail to Silmod Trail in Black Star Canyon Wilderness Park.

Black Star Canyon marks the boundary between the northeastern expanse of the Irvine Ranch Natural Landmarks and the Cleveland National Forest beyond.

Want to take in panoramic views of soaring red rock cliffs, vistas of Irvine Lake, and—on clear days—a peak at Catalina Island? Then take advantage of Black Star Canyon Wilderness Park, where miles of varied trails offer pleasant strolls for beginning hikers and families, and also challenging experiences for seasoned trail users.

Black Star Canyon and the adjacent Baker Canyon are historical hotspots, with tales and stories harkening to the region’s ranching days, its once-numerous population of California grizzly bears, and the region’s first residents—the Gabrieleno and Tongva peoples.

Discover Black Star Canyon

2/16/2017

Black Star Canyon's Silmod Trail offers expansive views of Irvine Lake.

Enjoy the beauty and trails of Black Star Canyon on foot, bike, or saddle, and join in on upcoming guided events including tai chi in the canyon and hikes that explore Black Star's wildflowers and natural history.

Looking for a way to connect with the great outdoors? Nature lovers can explore Black Star Canyon which, after this season’s deluge of rains, is sure to be bursting with wildflowers and greened-up native plants throughout the winter and spring seasons.

Known for its rich history and breathtaking views, Black Star Canyon is an easy gateway to the backcountry of the Cleveland National Forest and the northern Santa Ana Mountains. The first residents of the land were the Gabrieleno (Tongva) people, and the area was also once home to a vibrant ranching community and mining company. Today, outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy diverse sage scrub, chaparral habitats, wildflowers, and expansive views found in Black Star Canyon.

Trade TV for the Trails

4/21/2016

Embrace Screen-Free Week and explore the Irvine Ranch Natural Landmarks.

With all the technology people have right at their fingertips, it can be easy at times to forget what adventures await outdoors. National Screen-Free Week, May 2-8, is a program by the non-profit Campaign for a Commercial-Free Childhood encouraging people to put their smartphones away and embrace life beyond digital entertainment. Multiple locations within the Irvine Ranch Natural Landmarks are close to Orange County residents, so it’s the perfect place to go to grab a breath of fresh air and connect with the outdoors.

Seeing "Green" Around the Landmarks

3/11/2016

Visitors can see how green the Irvine Ranch Natural Landmarks currently are on a variety of upcoming programs.

From the dark leaves of coastal scrub oak and black sage, to the bright hues of coyote brush and coastal prickly pear cactus, St. Patrick’s Day green is a common color around the Irvine Ranch Natural Landmarks this time of year. Recent rains and the winter season – when native plants come out of dormancy – have made the green shades even more prominent.

There are a variety of activities out on the Landmarks the week of St. Patrick’s Day to spot green in full force, whether during a fast-paced hike, an interactive outdoor adventure or volunteer opportunities giving back.

Leap into the Landmarks

2/19/2016

Take a cue from mule deer and leap into the Irvine Ranch Natural Landmarks during a variety of docent-led programs.

This year is a leap year, giving us 366 days in 2016 instead of 365. While the Earth takes some much-needed time to completely orbit around the sun, why not make the most of the extra 24 hours? With our unseasonably warm weather and ample sunshine, take advantage of this year’s bonus day by exploring outdoors with your family and friends.

There are plenty of family-friendly programs happening on the Irvine Ranch Natural Landmarks. To help choose the best one for your group, the LetsGoOutside.org site lists a “Difficulty Rating” with each activity.

The difficulty rating is based on factors including the activity’s distance, elevation gain, and trail surface to help visitors determine which program is right for them. Activities assigned a Level 1 or 2 Difficulty Rating are often slower paced and a great option to consider when looking to connect with the land while bonding with your family. All programs listed below are a Level 2 Difficulty Rating, making them an optimal outing for nearly anyone in your group. Each activity has a minimum age limit, so check that out on the website as well.

Share the Landmarks with Someone Special

2/5/2016

Valentine's Day is the perfect time to spot hearts out in the Irvine Ranch Natural Landmarks.

Give those who matter most to you the gift of quality time together outdoors this Valentine’s Day.

Wildflowers are starting to bloom; the sun is out a bit longer each night; and if you look up in the sky, you just might be lucky enough to catch a glimpse of raptors courting – all sure signs Valentine’s Day is nearing in the Irvine Ranch Natural Landmarks. Rather than book a reservation at a crowded, overpriced restaurant to celebrate, surprise your loved one this year with an outdoor adventure.

Whether it’s a romantic night hike, an adventurous outing, or an excursion for the whole family, show the people who matter most to you one of the most special sights in Orange County by exploring the Landmarks together this Valentine’s Day. Read more below to see which activity is right for you.

Catch Sight of Birds Weathering the Winter

1/29/2016

White-tailed kite photo courtesy of David Furseth

Despite colder weather, there are still plenty of opportunities for bird-watchers visiting the Irvine Ranch Natural Landmarks.

Many animals might hibernate for the winter, but this season can be prime bird-watching time for those in the Irvine Ranch Natural Landmarks. While birds don’t have to contend with blizzards or snowstorms here, they do employ certain tactics to handle the colder-than-normal temperatures of winter. Avoiding wind and roosting away in small, heat-enclosing spaces are common behaviors exhibited this season, according to The Cornell Lab of Ornithology, which studies birds and other wildlife. But our feathered friends also battle the cold by hanging out in large flocks for greater protection and eating as much as possible – activities that could keep them out and about (and easier to spot) to the delight of avian enthusiasts.

Not Too Late for New Year’s Resolutions

1/22/2016

Limestone Canyon photo courtesy of Irvine Ranch Conservancy volunteer Alex Gurrola.

Whether it’s staying fit, giving back to community or spending time with the family, give your New Year’s resolution a second wind at the Irvine Ranch Natural Landmarks.

Already slipping on your New Year’s resolutions? You may find the solution out on the trails.

A study by Franklin Covey showed that 35 percent of people will have already broken those commendable promises by the end of January. If you’re at risk for joining that group, let the Irvine Ranch Natural Landmarks give your New Year’s resolution a second wind. Year after year, the most popular resolutions include getting healthy, trying something new, giving back to the community, and spending more time with the family; whichever of these resonate with you most, there’s an activity outdoors that can help you still make 2016 your best year yet.

New Loop Trail is Both Simple and Breathtaking

1/1/2016

The Mesa Loop Trail opens for docent-led activities and spectacular plateau views.

There’s an area in OC Parks’ Black Star Canyon that locals call “the Mesa,” and it certainly lives up to its name. Standing at the top of the Library Trail along the Mesa Loop, you can take in a 360° view that includes Black Star Canyon, Limestone Canyon Nature Preserve, and Cleveland National Forest. Beginning in January, visitors can check out this view for themselves during a variety of docent-led activities provided by OC Parks and led by Irvine Ranch Conservancy.

Events kick off Tuesday, Jan. 19, with Quick Cardio on the Mesa, where visitors can explore the sights and smells of coastal sagebrush and the vista of the canyons while getting a workout in. Additional programs tailored to different interests ensure there are a variety of ways to connect to the land, including Twilight Trek on the Mesa on Friday, Jan. 22, for night owls; family-focused activities such as Morning on the Mesa Loop Family Hike on Saturday, Feb. 13; and even Art on the Landmarks for those seeking inspiration from nature. There is a new program to enjoy on the Mesa Loop nearly every week throughout the winter, and you can register for them at www.LetsGoOutside.org/activities.

Giving Newcomers to Nature Education and Exploration

1/1/2016

New programs provide visitors with some extra guidance at Wilderness Access Days.

Wilderness Access Days have always been a great way for beginners to connect with Orange County’s only National Natural Landmark, allowing folks to independently explore nature while knowing that highly trained volunteers were on hand throughout the trail system to help along the way. Now, newcomers to nature looking for even more expert guidance can get the most out of their time on the trails through new guided walks available at every Wilderness Access Day.

Celebrate National Wilderness Month in Black Star Canyon

8/28/2015

September is National Wilderness Month, marking the anniversary of the 1964 Wilderness Act. This act of Congress created the National Wilderness Preservation System, and recognized wilderness as “an area where the earth and its community of life are untrammeled by man, where man himself is a visitor who does not remain.”

The Irvine Ranch Natural Landmarks provide a wilderness experience right here in Orange County. You can visit unique and protected wildlands just minutes from anywhere in the county. In fact, the OC Parks system includes more than 20,000 continuous acres of open space that is permanently protected and preserved. Most of this land is preserved for wildlife habitat, with docent-led recreation activities. While there are guided hikes and other programs scheduled almost daily, some say the best way to enjoy the local canyons is during the monthly Wilderness Access Days.

Monthly Activity Offers Chance to ‘Shhh… Hike, Look and Listen’

5/22/2015

Monthly nature walk in Baker Canyon offers the chance to listen to the natural sounds of the canyon.

Slowly walking along a meandering trail is a great way to shed away the day’s stresses. On Thursday, you can join a unique nature walk in OC Parks’ Black Star Canyon Wilderness Park that not only takes a slower pace, but also focuses on quiet enjoyment of nature’s noises. Take in the beauty of local wilderness while watching for soaring red-trailed hawks, listening to bird calls and inhaling the fragrance of the trailside sage plants during the “Shhh… Hike, Look and Listen” hike. This monthly activity is designed to give participants the opportunity to hike quietly and meditatively while taking in the sounds of nature.

Eat Your Way through the History of the Landmarks

4/17/2015

Learn about the many ways humans have used native plants throughout history.

On Saturday, April 25, you can celebrate the week of Earth Day by joining Irvine Ranch Conservancy volunteer naturalists for “Celebrate Cultures in Nature: Native American Flora Uses.” This informative and family-friendly hike will take place in the Baker Canyon area of OC Parks’ Black Star Wilderness Park, and visitors will have the chance to sample treats similar to the native plants people have been eating over the centuries.

During a short hike in Baker Canyon, docents will discuss how early settlers of the area survived and thrived on what nature has to offer. The trained naturalists will point out native plants along the trail and discuss how each species has been used in various ways over the years. Before the hike, participants can sample various natural treats that could have been harvested entirely from ingredients provided by local plants. While no actual plant ingredients can or will be taken from the protected wildlands, participants can see how similar ingredients from plants farmed elsewhere are still used in items you may find in your local grocery store.

Restoring Habitat Across the Landmarks

4/3/2015

Landowners and partner groups are restoring hundreds of acres of open space wildlife habitat.

There are hundreds of acres of habitat restoration projects currently underway across the Irvine Ranch Natural Landmarks. Restoring native habitat at a large scale is a challenge but is the most effective means of improving long-term habitat health in areas overrun by weeds. Many different landowners and partner groups perform habitat restoration projects, and there are many opportunities for the public to get involved. On behalf of landowners such as OC Parks, City of Irvine and City of Newport Beach, as well as agencies such as Orange County Transportation Authority, Irvine Ranch Conservancy currently manages nearly 200 acres of active habitat restoration, ranging in intensity from sites that need two years of site preparation, seeding, transplanting and site maintenance to sites with some existing native vegetation that just need weed control. Here are details for some of those projects:

Red Rocks and History of Black Star Canyon

3/26/2015

Distinctive red rocks, active wildlife and a fascinating local history make Black Star Canyon a great place to learn about the land while enjoying a short hike.

The combination of a fascinating local history, noteworthy geological formations, and a variety of plant and animal life make the “History of the Red Rocks of Black Star Canyon” a hike not to be missed. During a casually-paced 2.5-mile walk along a fairly flat, sandy, streambed trail, well-informed docents will discuss the diverse flora and fauna on display, the plate tectonics at work underfoot, and the human history of OC Parks’ beautiful Black Star Canyon Wilderness Park.

Family Fun for Fall

9/26/2014

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Bring the whole family to fun activities on the Irvine Ranch Natural Landmarks.

The end of summer doesn't have to be the end of family fun outdoors -- with the kids back in school and the weather starting to cool off, families may be in the search of activities they can enjoy together on the weekend. In OC Parks’ Irvine Ranch Open Space, Irvine Ranch Conservancy naturalists are leading several activities next weekend that are perfect for families.

A unique way to spend time with the family is by having an adventure under the open sky at night. Come discover the brightness of a full moon’s light at the Full Moon Hike in Black Star Canyon on Saturday, October 4. This easy 3-mile nature walk is open to ages 8 and up.

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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.

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.

July is National Park and Recreation Month

6/27/2014

Enjoy our local open space parks with a variety of activities.

Celebrate Park and Recreation Month in July by visiting Orange County’s only National Natural Landmark. On Saturday, July 12, OC Parks will host a special Wilderness Access Day in Black Star Canyon to help promote Park and Recreation Month and encourage more people to connect to nature and the outdoors.

A recent nationwide survey released by the National Recreation and Park Association (NRPA) found that three in 10 U.S. adults do not spend time outside on a daily basis. Of those who do spend daily time outside, almost half – 47 percent – spend less than 30 minutes in the fresh air.

<<Previous

Things to Do During Wilderness Access Day in Black Star Canyon

Black Star Canyon Trails and Views Are Worth the Trip

Choose Your Own Adventure During Wilderness Access Days

Rise and Shine on the Irvine Ranch Natural Landmarks

Travel Through the Irvine Ranch Natural Landmarks by Saddle

Explore Black Star Canyon and Learn About its Storied Past

Black Star Canyon Trails and Views Are Worth the Trip

Discover Black Star Canyon

Trade TV for the Trails

Seeing "Green" Around the Landmarks

Leap into the Landmarks

Share the Landmarks with Someone Special

Catch Sight of Birds Weathering the Winter

Not Too Late for New Year’s Resolutions

New Loop Trail is Both Simple and Breathtaking

Giving Newcomers to Nature Education and Exploration

Celebrate National Wilderness Month in Black Star Canyon

Monthly Activity Offers Chance to ‘Shhh… Hike, Look and Listen’

Eat Your Way through the History of the Landmarks

Restoring Habitat Across the Landmarks

Red Rocks and History of Black Star Canyon

Family Fun for Fall

Choose Your Own (Outdoor) Adventure

Unplug and Reconnect with Nature

July is National Park and Recreation Month

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