
Wilderness Access Days are held monthly in Limestone Canyon and Black Star Canyon for self-guided hiking, biking and equestrian use. The location switches between the two sites each month, offering visitors the chance to explore much of the OC Parks Irvine Ranch Open Space each month. This month, visitors to the Baker Staging Area used for the Wilderness Access Day will see major improvements in progress, including preparations for a 48-foot shade sail, restroom enclosures and an improved interpretive area.
The “DIY” experience of Wilderness Access Day begins with check-in at the staging area, where friendly volunteers from Irvine Ranch Conservancy are on hand to help guide visitors to the right trails for their interest, experience and time available. Volunteers are also stationed out on the trails, to provide assistance along the way. From an easy nature walk for families to more challenging routes, opportunities for all levels of outdoor enthusiasts are available. There is also a docent-led hike for visitors who want to learn more about locally-native plants, beginning at 9 am.
The Black Star Wilderness Access Day is 7:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. Saturday, September 7, with the last trail entry at noon. Wilderness Access Days and docent-led hikes are free, and while registration for the access day is strongly encouraged, registration for docent-led hikes is required. Participants can register online at www.LetsGoOutside.org/activities.