Families Enjoy Activities on the Irvine Ranch Natural Landmarks

IRC Staff lead members of the media and their families on a hike in Baker Canyon

A hosted showcase of morning programs highlights the diversity of youth activities on the Landmarks
 
The Irvine Ranch Natural Landmarks offers a wealth of geologic formations, rare habitats, and hundreds of species of plant and wildlife. Nature lovers of all ages can explore and discover the natural wonders of the Landmarks through guided programs throughout the year. Visitors can immerse the whole family in nature through stewardship, interpretive, and hiking programs while connecting with the lands. Irvine Ranch Conservancy was pleased to host a media event showcasing popular kid-friendly programs offered on the Irvine Ranch Natural Landmarks.
 
“Whether a first-time or frequent visitor to the Landmarks, there are many programs for kids to enjoy while developing interest in the lands. This event was a great opportunity to highlight a few of the amazing programs kids can experience with the whole family,” commented Scott Graves, Irvine Ranch Conservancy Communications Manager. “Introducing the wonders of nature to kids at a young age can not only help them learn about the open spaces around them, but help them form a true appreciation for the local lands.”

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During the event, members of the media and their families learned about the Irvine Ranch Natural Landmarks through fun and educational hands-on events offered throughout the open spaces. Families learned about the metamorphosis of a caterpillar, how to spot signs animals leave behind in the wild, and how seeds are harvested at the Native Seed Farm, before taking a short hike through the canyon. The program showcase provided history and information on the Landmarks, Irvine Ranch Conservancy and its partners, and sparked interest in the many activities offered the open spaces while inspiring interest in nature lovers of all ages.
 
Whether looking to connect with the land during a stewardship program like It’s Harvest Time! Collect Wildflower Seeds at the Native Seed Farm, with an interpretive program like the Better Birding Basics: Birds of Round Canyon activity, or a hiking activity like the Self-Paced Fitness Hike on Hicks Haul Road program, there are nearly 40,000 acres of protected open spaces to explore.
 
Outdoor enthusiasts can click any of the below titles to learn more about the family-friendly guided activities led on the Irvine Ranch Natural Landmarks. 
 

• Wilderness Access Day: Bommer Canyon on Saturday, August 18 from 8 a.m. – 2 p.m. invites visitors of all ages and interests to choose their own adventure while discovering the City of Irvine’s Bommer Canyon.

 

• Shhh…Hike, Look, and Listen on Thursday, August 23 from 5:30 – 7:30 p.m. encourages families to end their day with a quiet walk through the calming canyons of OC Parks’ Baker Canyon. 

 

• Discover Hidden Canyons of OC: Black Star on Monday, August 27 from 8:30 – 11 a.m. allows nature lovers to enjoy hidden canyons and discover the secluded oasis of oaks in OC Park’ Black Star Canyon Wilderness Park.

 

• Wilderness Access Day: Black Star Canyon on Saturday, September 1 from 8 a.m. – 2 p.m. offers hikers and families pleasant introductory trails open for self-guided access in OC Parks’ Black Star Canyon Wilderness Park.

 

• It’s Harvest Time! Collect Wildflower Seeds at the Native Seed Farm on Saturday, September 8 from 8:30 – 11:30 a.m. invites volunteers to harvest seeds from native plants that will help re-grow animal habitat on the Landmarks.

 

• Animal Tracking in Fremont Canyon on Saturday, September 22 from 9 a.m. – 12 p.m. in OC Parks’ Fremont Canyon Nature Preserve teaches kids about how to search for evidence animals leave behind in nature, including tracks, fur, bones, and homes.

 
Most activities on the Landmarks are free with required pre-registration, which closes at 4 p.m. the day prior to each event. Remember to wear sunscreen and don’t forget to pack water, a snack, and wear appropriate shoes. Programs are open to the public with required registration, but space is limited and early registration is recommended. For more information and to register for a program visit www.LetsGoOutisde.org/activities.