Mountain biking in the Irvine Ranch Natural Landmarks is a unique experience. Not only are you in a National Natural Landmarks with world-class trails, but on a docent-led ride you may ride for hours and see only your fellow riders. And maybe a deer or two.
Opportunities abound for mountain bikers to enjoy the Irvine Ranch Natural Landmarks, and with several mountain bikers on staff, the Irvine Ranch Conservancy helps make the trails and activities perfect for riders. From maintaining sustainable trails that resist erosion to designing routes that offer an exciting challenge, the Conservancy works with landowners such as OC Parks and City of Irvine to make sure riders have a good experience on the trails.
Opportunities abound for mountain bikers to enjoy the Irvine Ranch Natural Landmarks, and with several mountain bikers on staff, the Irvine Ranch Conservancy helps make the trails and activities perfect for riders. From maintaining sustainable trails that resist erosion to designing routes that offer an exciting challenge, the Conservancy works with landowners such as OC Parks and City of Irvine to make sure riders have a good experience on the trails.
The Conservancy has also developed a Mountain Bike Skills Clinic to teach new riders. “It’s a fun event that teaches not just riding skills, but also the importance of proper trail etiquette and basic bike maintenance,” says Brian Hughes, Interpretive Specialist with the Conservancy and experienced mountain biker. “If you go ride and get a flat tire, it’s nice to know how to change one on the trail and avoid the 5 mile hike back to your car.”
Riding techniques are taught and practiced at the new Mountain Bike Skills Development area at Orchard Hills. Obstacles built by Conservancy staff are realistic imitations of what one may find out on the trails and offer those challenges in a safe space. The clinic is held monthly, with the next two events happening on August 25 and September 29.
Advanced riders looking for a challenge have a few options to choose from this week. On August 28, a ride in Fremont Canyon -- “the Yosemite of Orange County” – will combine natural beauty with some long climbs. On September 1, another ride will explore Fremont Canyon before heading through Weir Canyon and back in an 11.5-mile loop.
For riders looking to explore in Irvine, on September 4 there is a moderate-paced bike tour through the picturesque hills of Bommer and Shady Canyons. With a combination of ranch roads and multiple intermediate and advanced level technical single track trails, along with many steep climbs and descents, the pace may be moderate but the ride will still provide a challenge.
Mountain biking families who want to explore and learn together should sign up now for the September 15 Beginner Mountain Bike Ride in Limestone Canyon. This ride is for adults and kids 10 and over, with at least 6 months’ experience riding trails.
To find out about more great activities, please visit www.LetsGoOutside.org/activities
Riding techniques are taught and practiced at the new Mountain Bike Skills Development area at Orchard Hills. Obstacles built by Conservancy staff are realistic imitations of what one may find out on the trails and offer those challenges in a safe space. The clinic is held monthly, with the next two events happening on August 25 and September 29.
Advanced riders looking for a challenge have a few options to choose from this week. On August 28, a ride in Fremont Canyon -- “the Yosemite of Orange County” – will combine natural beauty with some long climbs. On September 1, another ride will explore Fremont Canyon before heading through Weir Canyon and back in an 11.5-mile loop.
For riders looking to explore in Irvine, on September 4 there is a moderate-paced bike tour through the picturesque hills of Bommer and Shady Canyons. With a combination of ranch roads and multiple intermediate and advanced level technical single track trails, along with many steep climbs and descents, the pace may be moderate but the ride will still provide a challenge.
Mountain biking families who want to explore and learn together should sign up now for the September 15 Beginner Mountain Bike Ride in Limestone Canyon. This ride is for adults and kids 10 and over, with at least 6 months’ experience riding trails.
To find out about more great activities, please visit www.LetsGoOutside.org/activities
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