
Give the gift of nature this Valentine’s Day and spend quality time outdoors with the ones who matter most to you. Surprise that special someone, or your friends and family, with an outdoor adventure. Together you can explore the native wildlife as the wildflowers begin to bloom and animals become more active. With Irvine Ranch Conservancy’s full calendar of activities, you can switch up your traditional Valentine’s Day plans and experience the beauty of the Irvine Ranch Natural Landmarks.
Take date night outdoors with one of the many evening hikes that let you explore the landmarks one trail at a time. The Orchard Hills Evening Hike explores the Orchard Hills Loop trail as it meanders around an avocado orchard on the edge of the Irvine Ranch Open Space Preserve. You and your loved one can take in the sights, as this hike provides fantastic ridge-top views of Irvine and the Pacific Coastline. Another evening hike to enjoy together is the After Work Fitness Hike on Paved Hicks Haul Road. This fitness-focused hike allows you to watch the sunset with panoramic views of the Orange County horizon.
Now that winter is nearing its end, you can catch local wildlife looking for love on the Landmarks. The Bird Walk at San Joaquin Wildlife Sanctuary is a great way to learn about the wonderful world of birds and the resident bird species of the Irvine Ranch Open Space. For those looking to share their love of the outdoors with friends and family, explore self-guided trail access during the many Wilderness Access Days, where you can enjoy an outdoor adventure in Bommer Canyon or Black Star Canyon.
What better way to celebrate Valentine’s Day than by giving love back to the Landmarks! Irvine Ranch Conservancy offers a variety of weekly and monthly programs where volunteers can show their love for the land. Featured during the month of February is the Peters Canyon Habitat Restoration, where volunteers can help enhance the natural beauty of Peters Canyon Regional Park by planting and watering native plants. Other restoration activities include Keep It Wild, Dig In! and Second Sundays Restoration. The best part is no experience is necessary – so get out and spread the love!
Whether it’s a romantic sunset hike, volunteering with your love, or an adventurous outing with friends and family, show the people who matter most some of the special sights throughout Orange County by exploring the Landmarks together this Valentine’s Day. All activities offered are free with required pre-registration, which closes at 4 p.m. the day prior to each event. Some programs are suitable for children 12 and over, and children must be accompanied by a parent or adult guardian. For more details on programs, hikes, and other activities visit LetsGoOutside.org/activities.