Trained naturalists help interpret the Irvine Ranch Natural Landmarks for the public in unique, memorable ways.

Spring is quickly approaching, making it the perfect time for those seeking greater appreciation of the outdoors to – as the saying goes – stop and smell the roses. But regardless if wildflowers are in bloom, interpretive programs on the Irvine Ranch Natural Landmarks provide year-round opportunities for visitors to slow down and connect to the land in unique, memorable ways.

Programs on LetsGoOutside.org are broken up into categories – such as interpretive, hiking & fitness, and stewardship – to help visitors find what they’re looking for when visiting the Landmarks. Interpretive programs focus on helping people enjoy their time outdoors while also learning about nature. So if you’ve learned something new about the Landmarks while out on the trails that leaves you feeling more connected to the land, guess what – you’ve just had an interpretive experience! The National Association for Interpretation defines interpretation as “a mission-based communication process that forges emotional and intellectual connections between the interests of the audience and the meanings inherent in the resource.”

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.

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.

Take advantage of monthly full moon activities and experience natural surroundings in a way you might not have experienced them before.

If you want to experience one of your favorite canyons in a new way, or want to hear coyotes howling to each other while on the prowl, then grab your sturdy shoes, warm clothing and a flashlight and sign up for one of the popular upcoming full moon activities. The lunar phase known as a “full moon” occurs when the moon is on the opposite side of the Earth from the sun. This is when the moon reflects the most light towards Earth—naturally illuminating beautiful landscapes on the Irvine Ranch Natural Landmarks. 

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.