The Second Annual OC Parks Wilderness Celebration brought visitors closer to nature – with live birds, snakes and even a tarantula on hand for up-close inspection. New trails brought hikers, bikers and equestrians into rarely-seen areas of Baker and Black Star Canyons during the July 28 event, with more than 400 people commemorating the gift of 20,000 acres of open space to the residents of Orange County. The event was hosted by OC Parks with support from Irvine Ranch Conservancy, and OC Parks officials announced that this would be the first of many open access days in Black Star Canyon.
Participants of all ages and abilities were able to choose from easy, moderate and strenuous trails, including the new SilMod Loop and new Silverado Creek trail. Trail-goers could choose their own adventure with self-guided hiking and riding, or experience docent-led hikes that gave hikers insight into this historic and permanently-preserved natural area. Nearly 60 volunteers helped make the day possible, from patrolling trails to answering questions about local wildlife.
Participants of all ages and abilities were able to choose from easy, moderate and strenuous trails, including the new SilMod Loop and new Silverado Creek trail. Trail-goers could choose their own adventure with self-guided hiking and riding, or experience docent-led hikes that gave hikers insight into this historic and permanently-preserved natural area. Nearly 60 volunteers helped make the day possible, from patrolling trails to answering questions about local wildlife.
Families in the Baker Staging Area enjoyed nature walks, scavenger hunts and games provided by OC Parks. Activities and displays taught visitors about wildlife such as toads, coyotes, raccoons and owls, and families were able to meet a tarantula and Rosy boa. At the main event site in the Black Star Staging Area, community organizations provided souvenirs along with information about wilderness opportunities within Orange County. One of the most popular participants of the Community Partner Fair was the OC Bird of Prey Center, featuring a Red-tailed Hawk, Western Screech Owl and American Kestrel for visitors to see up-close.
The Irvine Ranch Conservancy manages public programs on behalf of landowners like OC Parks. Wilderness Access Days have been hosted monthly in Limestone Canyon, and starting October 20, will be held in Black Star Canyon as well. Regular docent-led programs will also increase in the area, with the new trails now complete. Learn more about activities in Black Star Canyon and throughout the Irvine Ranch Natural Landmarks at www.LetsGoOutside.org/activities.
The Irvine Ranch Conservancy manages public programs on behalf of landowners like OC Parks. Wilderness Access Days have been hosted monthly in Limestone Canyon, and starting October 20, will be held in Black Star Canyon as well. Regular docent-led programs will also increase in the area, with the new trails now complete. Learn more about activities in Black Star Canyon and throughout the Irvine Ranch Natural Landmarks at www.LetsGoOutside.org/activities.
RSS Feed