
Work up a sweat while enjoying fresh air and open spaces on the Irvine Ranch Natural Landmarks! Nature lovers can register for a variety of hiking and fitness programs on the lands that range from leisurely strolls to challenging distance hikes, and discover rare and native species along the way. Visitors of all skill and fitness levels are welcome to raise their heart rate while taking in the natural beauty of the land during fitness-focused activities on the Landmarks.
Every Monday and Wednesday night, hikers can join the level 3 fitness program, After Work Fitness Hike on Paved Hicks Haul Road. The upcoming hikes on Monday, March 19 and Wednesday, March 21 from 6 – 7:30 p.m. allow participants to hike 3.5 miles to the top of Loma Ridge at a pace that best suits their fitness and comfort level. Whether visitors walk, jog, or run, all hikers are treated with a beautiful overview of Orange County once they reach the top of Loma Ridge.
On Wednesday, March 21 from 6:30 – 8:30 p.m. hikers can head to the City of Irvine’s Orchard Hills after a long day at the office to refresh and reenergize during a 3 mile hike along the Orchard Hills Loop Trail. Put the extra hour of daylight to good use by following the meandering trail around an avocado orchard and absorb breath-taking ridge-top views of Irvine and the Pacific coastline. This level 3 program, which takes place at least once every week, will travel at a moderate walking pace and allow some stops for resting and regrouping.
Keep the outdoor adventure going during the Mid Week Hike: Bommer Canyon on Wednesday, March 28 from 8 a.m. – 1 p.m. Participants can recharge their batteries in an area of Bommer Canyon that was historically a center for cattle operations up until the late 1990’s. This level 4 hike is led at a moderate place and involves several steep climbs and descents across a wide variety of trail types with an elevation accumulation of over 2,200 ft.
Fitness gurus looking for a challenge can join the Advanced Cardio Hike: Limestone Canyon & Limestone Ridge on Thursday, March 29 from 6 – 7:30 p.m. This level 5 cardio hike is extremely strenuous, fast-paced, and includes an elevation gain of over 800 ft. During the cardio hike, participants can spot wildlife and explore Limestone Canyon and its ridge. Hikers should come prepared with at least 70 oz. of water, trail snacks, sunscreen, and first aid.
Enjoy fresh air and exercise on the Irvine Ranch Natural Landmarks this spring! Most activities 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 fitness programs on the Irvine Ranch Natural Landmarks visit LetsGoOutside.org/activities.