
As winter fades away and the clocks spring forward on Sunday, it’s the perfect opportunity to get outside on the Irvine Ranch Natural Landmarks. If you’re stuck indoors all day and need a way to de-stress, take advantage of the extra hour of sunlight and sign up for one of the many evening activities Irvine Ranch Conservancy offers. Take a stroll at your own pace, get in an evening workout or learn about nature with an interpretive activity. There’s a wide variety of evening activities to choose from, so get out and explore the Landmarks as the sun goes down!
Nature lovers looking for a leisurely paced hike can sign up for the Twilight Hike in Orchard Hills on Tuesday, March 12 from 5:15 - 7:15 p.m. Take in the sights and relax during this evening hike, as you make your way around the Orchard Hills loop trail and watch the sky change color. Hikers looking for a moderately paced evening hike should try the Orchard Hills Evening Hike. Occurring weekly, this two-hour hike provides fantastic ridge-top views of Irvine and the Pacific coastline. Meandering around an avocado orchard, these two activities will reward hikers with spectacular views of Orange County and a chance to experience Orchard Hills before and after sunset.
Night owls wondering what happens on the Irvine Ranch Open Space Preserve at night should sign-up for the Full Moon Hike in Orchard Hills on Wednesday, March 20 from 6:30 - 9 p.m. These popular hikes happen frequently throughout the Landmarks and give hikers a chance to experience the serenity of a moonlit night stroll. Don’t forget to keep an eye out for nocturnal wildlife!
Those looking to learn more about the outdoors and how to stay safe on the trails should sign-up for the Back to Basics Winter Workshop: Outdoor Safety and Survival on Thursday, March 21 from 6:30 - 8 p.m. This workshop will cover the basics of how to avoid dangerous situations and what to do if you find yourself in one. Topics covered will include preparation, equipment, orienteering, plant and animal safety and basic wilderness survival skills.
Enjoy your evening outdoors and de-stress with the many evening activities offered on the Irvine Ranch Natural Landmarks! Remember to wear sunscreen (even in the late afternoon and early evening), and don’t forget to pack water, a snack, and wear layers and appropriate shoes. Visit LetsGoOutside.org to sign up for an evening program and to learn more about Landmarks. Programs are open to the public with required registration, but space is limited and early registration is recommended.