
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.
You don’t have to book training sessions to get in shape this year. Exercising outside has been proven to be just as effective as indoor workouts. Some benefits of trading in your gym pass for the great outdoors include fresh air, exercising your mind and body, natural Vitamin D, and getting a challenging workout in a truly beautiful setting. An activity as simple as hiking a trail for 30 minutes can be as effective as using a treadmill, with the added bonus of experiencing nature firsthand.
Activities on the Irvine Ranch Natural Landmarks are tailored to a wide range of different skill levels and interests. Join a hiking group and destress during one of the popular After Work Fitness Hikes, bring the family together during the self-guided Wilderness Access Days or give back while working out during one of the many Stewardship Days.
Keep your New Year’s resolution this year by having fun and getting fit outdoors! To switch-up your workout routine this year and get outside, click the programs below or discover more at letsgooutside.org/activities.
Jan. 21: After Work Fitness Hike on Paved Hicks Haul Road on Monday, January 21 from 6 – 7:30 p.m. is a fitness-focused hike that will give hikers the chance to enjoy sunset views and a panoramic overview of Orange County.
Jan. 21: Orchard Hills Evening Hike on Monday, January 21 from 6:30 – 8:30 p.m. will be a moderately paced hike on the Orchard Hills loop trail. This trail meanders around an avocado orchard on the edge of the open space preserve and provides fantastic ridge-top views of Irvine and the Pacific coastline.
Jan. 22: Tuesday Morning Fitness Hike on Paved Hicks Haul Road on Tuesday, January 22 from 9 – 11:30 a.m. offers an exhilarating morning fitness walk that allows hikers to choose between a 3, 6, or 8-mile route. The Paved Hicks Haul Road terrain is smooth, which makes it the perfect walk for anyone who wants a “wilderness experience” without getting dirty.
Jan. 22: Twilight Hike in the Canyons: Red Rocks on Tuesday, January 22 from 4 – 5:30 p.m. will be an easy paced 3.5-mile round trip hike, where hikers will see the ancient geological formation Red Rocks change colors as the sun sets.
Most activities on the Irvine Ranch Natural Landmarks are free and open to the public with required pre-registration, which closes at 4 p.m. the day prior to each event. For more details on programs on the Irvine Ranch Natural Landmarks and to get fit outside this year visit www.LetsGoOutside.org.