OC PARKS SEPTEMBER 2018
CALENDAR OF EVENTS
September
1 – Free Fishing Days
If you are new to
the sport of fishing, and not sure if you will enjoy it, a great opportunity
awaits you. California Department of Fish and Wildlife offer two Free Fishing
Days each year. On these days, you can fish without a sport fishing license.
Free Fishing Days provide a great, low-cost way to give fishing a
try.
Location: Mile Square Park. 16801 Euclid St.,
Fountain Valley, CA 92708
Cost: Free
Parking: $5 per vehicle
Contact: (714)973-3197
September 1 – Wilderness
Access Day: Black Star Canyon
8 a.m. – 2 p.m.
Black Star Canyon offers pleasant introductory trails for beginner
hikers and families, and challenging experiences for seasoned trail users. Designated trails are available for
self-guided access for hiking, biking and equestrian use by connecting various
loops to offer extended exploration throughout the canyons. Take time to explore
the local plant communities and beautiful scenery in easy 30-minute walks or
take in 7 miles in a strong cardio trek.
Location: Black Star Canyon Wilderness Park, Baker
Staging Area
Cost: Free
Parking: Free
Contact: (714) 973-6607
Special Instructions: Parking is limited on Black Star Canyon
Road and carpooling is strongly encouraged. Participants are required to stay
on designated trails at all times. Registration is required, sign up online at www.letsgooutside.org/wad.
September 1 – Wilderness
Access Day: Black Star Canyon, Equestrian
8 a.m. – 2 p.m.
Discover the history found along the trails in beautiful Black Star and
Baker Canyons from the back of your horse. Designated trails will be open for
self-guided hiking, biking and equestrian use, where you can reach several
peaks to view the local canyon terrain or meander along single tracks through
the thick chaparral brush. Riders who have trail riding experience with a fit
and able horse will enjoy choosing routes from easy 30-minute walks to
strenuous 7 mile loops.
Location: Black Star Canyon Wilderness Park, Baker
Staging Area
Cost: Free
Parking: Free
Special Instructions: There is limited space for equestrian
parking along Black Star Canyon Road, carpooling is strongly encouraged. Riders
must also have the ability to transport their horse to the staging area. It is
first come, first served for trailer parking and therefore pre-registration and
early arrival is HIGHLY recommended. Registration is required, sign up online at www.letsgooutside.org/wadequestrian.
September 1 – Caspers Park
Foundation Monthly Meeting
9:30 a.m. – 12 p.m.
The Caspers Park
Foundation hosts its monthly meeting in the Caspers Wilderness Park Nature
Center. Please join for an interactive talk with a special guest.
Location: Ronald W. Caspers Wilderness Park. 33401
Ortega Highway, San Juan Capistrano, CA 92675
Cost: Free
Parking: $5 per vehicle
Contact: (949) 923-2210
Special Instructions: Please contact the park office for more
information at (949) 923-2210.
September 1 – Volunteer Led Hike
12 – 1 p.m.
Join Caspers Park
Foundation volunteers for a 1-mile guided nature hike in the beautiful Bell
Canyon area of Caspers Wilderness Park. The hike will last approximately one
hour and is suitable for all ages.
Location: Ronald W. Caspers Wilderness Park. 33401
Ortega Highway, San Juan Capistrano, CA 92675. Meet at the Old Corral Day Use
Area.
Cost: Free
Parking: $5 per vehicle
Contact: (949) 923-2210
Special Instructions: Please contact park office for hike
updates and cancellations.
September 1 – Snakes of
Orange County
7:15 – 8:45 p.m.
OC Parks invites
you to join local herpetologist Steve Bledsoe at O’Neill Regional Park to learn
all about snakes that can be found in Orange County. This family-friendly event
will feature a live reptile display with local snake species. Come learn how to
identify snakes, where they live and what to do when you encounter one on park
trails. There will also be an informative presentation on rattlesnakes found in
Orange County.
Location: O’Neill Regional Park. 30892 Trabuco
Canyon Road, Trabuco Canyon, CA 92678
Cost: Free
Parking: Free
Contact: (949) 923-2260
Special Instructions: Meet at the Nature Center at 7:15 p.m.
For more information visit: www.ocparks.com/snakesofoc.
September 2, 9, 16, 23, 30
– Ranger Led Hike
8 – 9:15 a.m.
Join
OC Parks rangers for a 1-mile nature hike in the beautiful Bell Canyon area of
Caspers Wilderness Park. The hike will last approximately one hour and is
suitable for all ages.
Location: Ronald W. Caspers Wilderness Park.
33401 Ortega Highway, San Juan Capistrano, CA 92675. Meet at the Old Corral Day
Use Area.
Cost: Free
Parking: $5 per vehicle
Contact: (949) 923-2235
Special Instructions: Contact park office for hike updates.
September 4, 11, 18, 25 – Tuesday Morning Fitness Hike on Paved
Hicks Haul Road
7:30 – 10 a.m.
Ready for a workout? Forget the gym
for the day and head outside! Join us for an exhilarating morning fitness walk
on the paved Hicks Haul Road. This hike allows you to choose between a 3, 6 or
8 mile route, all of which are conducted at the speed of about 3 to 3.5 miles
per hour.
Location: Limestone Canyon
Wilderness Park, Hicks Haul Road, Jeffrey Staging Area
Cost: Free
Parking: Free
Special Instructions:
The road is paved and the terrain is smooth, so this is a
great walk for anyone who wants a “wilderness experience” without getting
dirty! We will have two fairly steep hill ascents and descents. Along the way,
you will have sweeping views of much of Orange County and the Santa Ana
Mountains. Various animals, like hawks, deer and lizards are also frequently
seen in this area. Walkers should be confident in their ability to hike 3, 6 or
8 miles at a steady pace. Ages 16 and up. Low interpretation. Registration is
required, sign up online at
www.letsgooutside.org/tuesdaymorninghike.
September 4 – Waterworks Trail Restoration: Fremont Canyon
9 – 11 a.m.
Please join Irvine Ranch
Conservancy staff and volunteers as we work to restore and maintain the land
along the new Waterworks Trail in Fremont Canyon! This is a stewardship
activity and duties may include removing invasive plants, watering and weeding
around existing native plants that were planted earlier in the year or other
similar duties.
Location: Fremont Canyon Nature Preserve, Lot 15. Irvine Regional Park. 1 Irvine
Park Rd., Orange, CA 92869
Cost: Free
Parking: Free
Special Instructions: Ages 12 and up. Participants must wear sturdy, closed-toe shoes and
preferably wear a long-sleeved shirt and long pants. Participants must also
bring their own water as well as wear sunscreen and hats. Registration is required, sign up
online at www.letsgooutside.org/waterworks.
September 5, 10, 12, 17, 19, 24, 26 – After Work Fitness Hike on Paved Hicks
Haul Road
6 – 7:30 p.m.
Join us every Monday and Wednesday
nights for a fitness-focused hike on the paved Hicks Haul Road. During the
spring, summer and fall, hikers will enjoy wonderful sunset views and a
panoramic overview of Orange County.
Location: Limestone Canyon Wilderness
Park, Hicks Haul Road, Jeffrey Staging Area
Cost: Free
Parking: Free
Special Instructions:
This hike travels about 3.5 miles, up to the top of Loma
Ridge and back down. The hike is conducted at about 3-3.5 miles per hour, but
you may travel a bit faster or slower, at a walk, run or jog depending on your
comfort level. Most participants finish the route in about 1 hour. Because of
the paved surface of the road, you may wear regular running or walking shoes.
Trail shoes are fine, but not required. Please bring adequate water!
Registration is required, sign up online at www.letsgooutside.org/afterwork.
September 6 – Thursday Morning Trek:
Limestone Canyon and Dripping Springs
7 – 10:30 a.m.
This week in the Irvine
Ranch Open Space, we’ll hike in Limestone Canyon to Dripping Springs. The hike
is 7-mile loop hike which includes some hills and descents. In addition to the
springs, we will enjoy panoramic views of the wildlands from East Loma.
Location: Limestone Canyon Nature Preserve, Augustine Staging Area
Cost: Free
Parking: Free
Special Instructions: Ages 12 and up. Please bring water, a trail
snack, sunscreen, a hat, and any other necessary equipment to keep you safe on
the trail, and wear sturdy, closed-toe hiking boots. Registration is
required, sign up online at www.letsgooutside.org/thursdaytrek.
September 6 – Fitness Hike at Ridge Park
8:30 – 11 a.m.
Raise your heart rate and your spirits
on this moderate, fast-paced, 6.5 mile hike over steep and uneven terrain (700 ft.
elevation gain) with Laguna Canyon Foundation volunteers.
Location: Laguna Coast Wilderness Park. 18751 Laguna Canyon Road, Laguna Beach, CA 92651. Ridge Park Staging
Area (Newport Coast Drive to Ridge Park Rd. east to end; meet at the gate.)
Cost: Free
Parking: Free
Contact: (949) 923-2235
Special Instructions: Ages 15 and up. Not for beginners, pace is
approximately a 19-minute mile. Registration is required, sign up online at www.eventbrite.com/fitnesshike. Please wear hiking
shoes and bring plenty of water.
September 6 – Cardio Hike: Mesa
Loop
6 – 7:30 p.m.
Join us for a strenuous,
extremely challenging, fast-paced, afternoon cardio hike starting in Limestone
Canyon. Along the way we’ll be rewarded with panoramic views of Orange County
and possible wildlife sightings.
Location: Black Star Canyon Wilderness Park. Canyons Staging Area
Cost: Free
Parking: Free
Special Instructions: Ages 18 and up. Please bring a minimum of 70
oz. water and trail snacks. Come prepared with a pack, sturdy closed toed
hiking shoes or boots, sunscreen, first aid, and all other supplies to keep you
safe and healthy on the trail for the extreme fast-paced hike in a wilderness
area. Registration
is required, sign up online at www.letsgooutside.org/cardiohike.
September 7 – Baker Canyon Equestrian
Ride in Black Star Wilderness Area
10 a.m. – 1 p.m.
Take a leisurely double
loop equestrian ride through beautiful Baker Canyon in the Black Star
Wilderness Area, home of oak woodlands, grasslands, and coastal sage
scrub.
Location: Black Star Canyon Wilderness Park, Baker Staging Area
Cost: Free
Parking: Free
Special Instructions: Ages 16 and up. Riders should have trail riding experience and a fit and
able horse. They must have the ability to transport their horse to the
staging area. Registration
is required, sign up online at www.letsgooutside.org/bakercanyonequstrianride.
September
7 – Moana: 2018 OC Parks Sunset Cinema
6 – 10 p.m.
The County of Orange and OC Parks are pleased to
present the annual Sunset Cinema film series, featuring 14 free movies at OC
parks across the county. The 2018 OC Parks Sunset Cinema series continues with
Moana at Buff Park at Salt Creek Beach.
Cost: Free
Parking: Free
Contact: (949) 923-2280
Special
Instructions: Pack a
picnic, blankets, and beach chairs and head to OC Parks Sunset Cinema and enjoy
recent popular flicks and introduce the young ones in your life to beloved
classics. All movies are free to attend, with free parking beginning at 6 p.m.
and show times starting around 8 p.m. after the sun has set. Food trucks will
be serving on-site. For the entire Sunset Cinema calendar visit: http://www.ocparks.com/sunsetcinema
September 8 – Native Plant Nursery
8 – 11 a.m.
Join Laguna
Canyon Foundation volunteers in beautiful Laguna Coast Wilderness Park at our
native plant nursery as we care for native plants from their seed stage to
their mature, ready-to-be planted stage. Volunteers may collect seeds, sow
seeds in flats, bump plants up, plant at restoration sites, sterilize plant
containers, and/or help maintain the facilities for the plants. Gain hands-on
experience with habitat restoration while working alongside other zany and interesting
plant lovers!
Location: Laguna Coast Wilderness Park. 18751
Laguna Canyon Rd, Laguna Beach, CA 92651. Willow Canyon Staging Area (west side
of Laguna Canyon Rd/SR-133, just south of El Toro Road).
Cost: Free
Parking: Free parking passes will be provided at
nursery
Contact: (949) 923-2235
Special Instructions: Wear closed toe shoes, layered clothing
and sun protection. Bring water. Youth ages 16 and 17 are eligible to volunteer
with parent permission. A form is required to be signed by their parent or
guardian prior to starting the volunteer activities. Youth under the age of 16
are not eligible to volunteer unless accompanied by an adult or guardian. For
questions, call (949) 497-8324 Monday to Friday or (949) 923-2200 Saturday and
Sunday. Registration is required, sign up online at www.eventbrite.com/nativeplant.
September
8, 15, 29– It’s Harvest Time! Collect
Wildflower Seeds at the Native Seed Farm
8:30 – 11:30 a.m.
Want to stand knee deep in rows of blooming color? Want
to refresh your senses while giving back to nature? Then sign up to help
behind-the-scenes at the Irvine Ranch Conservancy’s one-of-a-kind Native Seed
Farm in Irvine! You will be harvesting seeds from quirky native summer
wildflowers, like Yellow Pincushion and California Wishbone Bush. Absolutely no
experience or special equipment required! The seeds you will pick has a direct
impact on our local wildlife. It will be used out in the wild to re-grow animal
habitat within the Irvine Ranch Natural Landmarks. The types you’ll help
harvest were specially selected by our ecologists to provide animals with food
and shelter, and also to buffer the negative impacts of floods and wildfires,
which affect people too. Come help us harness the special traits of these
plants to heal the wildland within the Landmarks!
Location: Native Seed Farm
Cost: Free
Parking: Free
Special
Instructions: Registration is required,
sign up online at www.letsgooutside.org/harvesttime. Please note our Minors
Policy as noted on the letsgooutside.org website: All minors (under 18 years of
age) must be accompanied by their parent or legal guardian. They must also
(both parent and minor) be registered for the Irvine Ranch Conservancy led program
they wish to attend.
September 8, 15, 22, 29 –
Walk with a Naturalist
9 – 10:30 a.m.
Join O'Neill
Regional Park naturalists and learn about the animals and nature of Trabuco
Canyon. This will be a light to moderate walk on mostly paved roads.
Location: O’Neill Regional Park. 30892 Trabuco
Canyon Road, Trabuco Canyon, CA 92678. Meet at Nature Center Patio
Cost: Free
Parking: Free
Contact: (949) 923-2260
Special Instructions: Event is conditional on weather.
September 8 – Family Fossil
Day
9:30 – 11:30 a.m.
Family Fossil day is a hands-on
experience for all ages with real fossils The three-hour program will introduce
you to the fossil history of Orange County. Participants age 6 and older will
also be able to visit Clark Regional Park's marine fossil site.
Location: Clark Regional Park. 8800 Rosecrans Ave.
Buena Park, CA 90621. Meet at interpretive center.
Cost: Free
Parking: Free
Contact: (714) 973-3170
Special Instructions: Event is rain or shine. Pack a picninc
lunch and stay for the day at the park following the program. For more information
visit: www.ocparks.com/familyfossilday.
September 8 – Geology Hike at Dilley
1:30 – 4:30 p.m.
Step back 25 million years in Orange
County's history to a time when the seas receded and the San Andreas Fault was
just starting to form. With a Laguna Canyon Foundation volunteer naturalist,
discover the geologic processes going on today and how they affect the natural
landscape. This moderate 3-mile hike is over uneven, steep and sometimes rocky
terrain with a 300 ft elevation gain.
Location: Laguna Coast
Wilderness Park, James Dilley Preserve (I-5 or 405 south to 133 south to
stoplight at 73 toll road; and make a U-turn, go 1 block. Dilley is on the
right).
Cost: Free
Parking: $3 per vehicle
Contact: (949) 923-2240
Special Instructions: For ages 15 and up. Bring water,
hiking shoes (hiking poles suggested), snacks, the field guides of your choice,
and a sense of adventure! Registration is
required, sign up online at www.eventbrite.com/geologyhike.
September 9 – Second Sundays Restoration Program
9 – 11:30 a.m.
Join preserve staff and other
volunteers in enhancing Upper Newport Bay's habitat for local wildlife.
Activities may include non-native plant removal, planting natives, watering,
trash removal and garden maintenance.
Location: Upper Newport Bay Nature Preserve. 2301
University Drive, Newport Beach, CA 92660
Cost: Free
Parking: Free
Contact: (949) 497-8324
Special Instructions: Ages 12 and up. No experience is necessary.
Water and tools are provided. Minors ages 16 and younger must have a legal
guardian present at all times. Rain cancels event. Registration is required,
sign up online at www.letsgooutside.org/secondsunday.
September 9, 30– Beginning Archery Class
9 – 10:30 a.m.
Join Mile Square
Park Staff for a beginning archery course for first time archers. This course
will include a safety instruction and provide you with an introduction to the
sport of archery. All archery equipment will be provided. Park in the overflow
parking lot near the archery range.
Location: Mile Square Regional
Park. 16801 Euclid St. Fountain Valley, CA 92708
Cost: Free
Parking: Free
Contact: (714) 973-6600
Special Instructions: Event and parking are both free. Rain
will cancel event. Ages 12 and up. Children under 18 years of age must be
accompanied by an adult. Registration
is required, sign up online at https://letsgooutside.org/beginningarchery.
September 9 – The Mysterious
World of O’Neill Park
9 –
10:30 a.m.
Have you ever
wondered, "Where are all the wild animals in the
park?" Visit a Show and Share exhibit next to the Nature Center
at O'Neill Regional Park and discover mysterious clues animals leave behind.
Make a wild animal track mold. Enjoy nature, crafts and games. Show and Share
exhibit activities from 9:00 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. Scavenger Hunt 9:00 a.m. to
10:30 a.m.
Location: O’Neill Regional Park. 30892 Trabuco
Canyon Road, Trabuco Canyon, CA 92678
Cost: Free
Parking: Free
Contact: (949) 923-2260
Special Instructions: Meet at the Nature Center Patio. For more
information visit: www.ocparks.com/mysteriousworld.
September 10 – Discover Hidden Canyons of OC: Baker Canyon Meadow
8:30 – 11 a.m.
Discover the hidden
canyons and trails found on the Irvine Ranch Natural Landmarks. These seldom
hiked trails offer fantastic vista views, secluded oasis of oaks or rising
rocky outcrops. Come take a stroll along the trails to discover the hidden gems
of Orange County. We will listen to tales about how the geology was formed
underfoot to tales of the plants and animals that call these protected habitats
home.
Location: Black Star Canyon Wilderness Park, Baker Staging Area
Cost: Free
Parking: Free
Special Instructions: Ages 13 and up. Please wear comfortable
clothes and shoes for our hike as well as bring proper sun protection and
water. Registration
is required, sign up online at www.letsgooutside.org/discoverhiddencanyons.
September 10, 17, 24 – Tai Chi in the Canyon
9
– 11 a.m.
Tai Chi is an ancient Chinese exercise
renowned for the benefits of its slow, non-stressful physical exercises as well
as its meditative qualities. Baker Canyon offers a natural setting as a perfect
location for deep breathing of the fresh air, energizing our internal energy
(Qi) and using it to root ourselves to the land. The class will perform gentle
warm up exercises directly associated with many of the moves and we will then
learn and practice the Yang style.
Location: Black Star Canyon Wilderness Park, Baker
Staging Area
Cost: Free
Parking: Free
Special Instructions: The first hour will be dedicated to
beginning students learning the first set and the second hour focuses on the
advanced students to study the second and third sets. All participants are
welcome to either participate or observe both sessions as the gate will be
closed for the 2 hour duration. Registration is required, sign up online at www.letsgooutside.org/taichi.
September 11 – California Native Plants and Uses
8:30 – 11 a.m.
Learn
about the many fascinating uses of California native plants during the
pre-mission period on this 2-mile hike (490-ft. elevation gain) over steep and
uneven terrain. This hike will focus on plants used historically for tools,
food and building materials.
Location: Laguna Coast
Wilderness Park. 18751 Laguna Canyon Road, Laguna Beach, CA
92651. James Dilley Preserve (I-5 or 405 south to 133 south to stoplight at 73
toll road, make U-turn, go 1 block. Dilley is on the right).
Cost:
Free
Parking:
$3 per vehicle
Contact: (949) 923-2235
Special
Instructions: Ages 12 and up. Online reservations required at www.eventbrite.com/canativeplants. For questions, call
(949) 497-8324 Monday to Friday or (949) 923-2200 Saturday and Sunday
September 11, 18 – Evening Hike in the Canyons
6:30 – 8:30 p.m.
Come join us for some after-work
exercise on the Mesa Loop. The hike will cover close to 3 miles round trip at a
moderate pace and will offer us beautiful panoramic views of the surrounding
canyons. Also, keep your eyes open for any animals starting their nightly
routines.
Location: Black Star Canyon Wilderness Park, Canyons
Staging Area
Cost: Free
Parking: Free
Special Instructions: Please bring water and wear sturdy shoes. A
flashlight with a red tinted light is not required but might be nice to have as
it will be dark out when we finish our hike. Registration is required, sign up
online at www.letsgooutside.org/evninghike.
September 12 – Restoration
Stewardship Day
8 – 11 a.m.
Join OC Parks and
Laguna Canyon Foundation for a morning of habitat restoration work in the
Pecten Reef area of Aliso and Wood Canyons Wilderness Park. Help us create a
healthier habitat for the native plants and wildlife that call the park their
home. Depending on the time of year, volunteers will assist with various
restoration activities including removal of non-native plants, seed collection,
and/or planting of native plants.
Location: Aliso and Wood Canyons Wilderness Park.
28373 Alicia Parkway, Laguna Niguel, CA 92677
Cost: Free
Parking: Free
Contact: (949) 497-8324
Special Instructions: Ages 17 and up (must have waiver signed
by parent). Lunch and refreshments served. Trail to be determined closer to
event and notification will be sent to those signed up. We will be meeting at the Aliso Viejo Community Park on the opposite end
of the middle school. Registration is
required, sign up online at www.eventbrite.com/trailstewardship.
September 12, 26 – Discovery
Hike
8:30 – 11 a.m.
Explore beautiful Wood Canyon and
discover its native flora and fauna with Laguna Canyon Foundation volunteer
naturalists on this steep, uneven and rocky, 5-mile hike (depending on trail
choice, up to a 500 ft. elevation gain). We will stop from time to time,
spending moments to discover.
Location: Aliso and Wood Canyons Wilderness Park. 28373
Alicia Parkway, Laguna Niguel, CA 92677. Begin at Wood Canyon Trail off Canyon
Vistas in Aliso Viejo. From Pacific Park/Canyon Vistas intersection, go
northwest on Canyon Vistas. Park legally (note street signs) on or near Canyon
Vistas, preferably between Coastal Oak and Madia (22100 region of Canyon
Vistas).
Cost: Free
Parking: Free
Contact: (949) 923-2200
Special Instructions: Registration is required, sign up
online at www.eventbrite.com/discoveryhike. This hike isn't for beginners.
Please
wear closed toe hiking shoes, sun protection and bring plenty of water.
September 12 – Yoga Hike
9 – 10:30 a.m.
Stretch your mind and body on this
2.4-mile hike with a yoga twist over steep and uneven terrain (100-ft.
elevation gain) led by Laguna Canyon Foundation volunteers.
Location: Aliso and Wood Canyons Wilderness Park. 28373
Alicia Parkway, Laguna Niguel, CA 92677. Begin at Wood Canyon Trail off Canyon
Vistas in Aliso Viejo. From Pacific Park/Canyon Vistas intersection, go
northwest on Canyon Vistas. Park legally (note street signs) on or near Canyon
Vistas, preferably between Coastal Oak and Madia (22100 region of Canyon
Vistas). Wood Canyon Trail starts as a paved sidewalk between a neighborhood
park and tree-lined easement, then becomes dirt trail into the canyon. Hike
leaders and participants will meet at the end of the paved sidewalk, entering
the canyon.
Cost: Free
Parking: Free
Contact: (949) 923-220
Special Instructions: For ages 12 and up. Please bring a towel and water, yoga mat optional. For questions, call
(949) 497-8324 Monday to Friday or (949) 923-2200 Saturday and Sunday.
Registration is required, sign up online at www.eventbrite.com/yogahike.
September 13 – Fitness Hike at Willow
8:30 – 10:30 a.m.
Raise your heart rate and your spirits
on this strenuous, fast-paced, 5.5 mile hike over steep and uneven terrain
(571-ft elevation gain) with Laguna Canyon Foundation volunteers.
Location: Laguna Coast Wilderness Park. 18751 Laguna Canyon Road, Laguna Beach, CA 92651. Willow Canyon Staging
Area (west side of Laguna Canyon Rd/SR-133, just south of El Toro Road). Park
and walk up the gravel trail 100 yards to get to the small native plant
nursery, just before the trailers.
Cost: Free
Parking: $3 per vehicle
Contact: (949) 497-8324
Special Instructions: Ages 15 and up. Registration is required,
sign up online at www.eventbrite.com/fitnesshike. Please wear hiking
shoes and bring plenty of water. Remember: This hike is stenuous and
fast-paced. Please be sure you can maintain a 19-minute mile. Please arrive 15
minutes early
September 13 – Give Back and Enjoy the Beauty: Dripping Springs
9
a.m. – 12:30 p.m.
Connect with nature and give back to
the land as we assist native plants and wildlife flourish in an extremely
sensitive area of Limestone Canyon Preserve. You will ride through the canyon
in a safari-type vehicle to the Dripping Springs Trail where you may water or
add native plants. In addition we will give existing native plants room to
thrive as we weed out invasive plants. As a bonus we will hike approximately 2
miles round-trip to Dripping Springs; a fern-covered rock face dripping with
life-giving water creating an essential watering hole for wildlife in the
canyon. Your work along this trail will not only benefit the plants and
animals, but you will be supporting its continued beautification and
protection.
Location: Limestone Canyon Nature Preserve, Augustine Staging Area
Cost: Free
Parking: Free
Special Instructions: It is essential that you wear long pants,
closed toe shoes and long sleeves for this activity, as there are inherent
dangers on the trails such as poison oak, a variety of bugs and plants that
could be abrasive. We have some gloves, but you may be more comfortable with
your own. Please come prepared. No special skills are needed. Tools will be
provided. Registration is required, sign up online at www.letsgooutside.org/giveback.
September
13 – Wild North America Preschool Program
10:15 – 11:15
a.m.
Come find out what kinds of animals we find on our own continent! Class
includes hands-on learning, fun crafts, and meeting zoo animals up close!
Location: OC Zoo. 1 Irvine Park Rd, Orange, CA 92869
Cost: $5 per child (includes one adult)
Parking: $3 per vehicle
Contact: (714) 973-6846
Special Instructions: Ages 3 to 4 years old only. Parent must
accompany child for duration of program. Registration is required! Call (714)
973-6846 to register.
September
13 – Shhh…Hike, Look and Listen
6 – 8 p.m.
Come end your day
with a quiet walk through the calming canyons on the Irvine Ranch Natural
Landmarks. We will watch for soaring red-tailed hawks, listen to birds quietly
sing, and inhale the fragrance of fresh sage. Shed away the day’s repetitions
and join us as we take a “slow walk” into Baker Canyon, mindful of all that is
happening around us.
Location:
Black Star Canyon Wilderness Park, Baker Staging Area
Cost: Free
Parking: Free
Special Instructions: Registration is required, sign up online
at www.letsgooutside.org/hikelooklisten.
September 14 – Weekday
Slow-Paced Mountain Bike Ride – Limestone Canyon
8 – 11:30 a.m.
Enjoy the relaxation of riding in the wilderness on empty trails and
join us on this docent led mountain bike ride through Limestone Canyon. We will
visit Dripping Springs which is a fern covered, year-round source of water for
the local wildlife. The ride will also stop at the west viewing deck for the
Sinks and will continue on Limestone Canyon Road for a more panoramic view of
the Sinks.
Location: Limestone Canyon Nature Preserve,
Augustine Staging Area
Cost: Free
Parking: Free
Special Instructions: This is a slow-paced ride designed for the beginner that has
experience riding fire roads such as Limestone Canyon or Telegraph Canyon, but
wants to develop their climbing and riding abilities. The ride can also be
enjoyed by more advanced riders looking for a relaxed ride in a beautiful
setting.
Registration is
required, sign up online at www.letsgooutside.org/weekday.
September
14 – Jaws: 2018 OC Parks Sunset Cinema
6 – 10 p.m.
The County of Orange and OC Parks are pleased to
present the annual Sunset Cinema film series, featuring 14 free movies at OC
parks across the county. The 2018 OC Parks Sunset Cinema series concludes with
Jaws at Buff Park at Salt Creek Beach.
Cost: Free
Parking: Free
Contact: (949) 923-2280
Special
Instructions: Pack a
picnic, blankets, and beach chairs and head to OC Parks Sunset Cinema and enjoy
recent popular flicks and introduce the young ones in your life to beloved
classics. All movies are free to attend, with free parking beginning at 6 p.m.
and show times starting around 8 p.m. after the sun has set. Food trucks will
be serving on-site. For the entire Sunset Cinema calendar visit: http://www.ocparks.com/sunsetcinema
September 15 – Coastal Cleanup Day
9 a.m. – 12 p.m.
Lend a helping hand and join
volunteers around the world for Coastal Cleanup Day. Make an impact on
our coastlines as we work together to remove trash and recyclables from the
marsh, waterway, and beaches.
Location: Upper Newport Bay Nature Preserve. 2301
University Drive, Newport Beach, CA 92660. Meet at the Peter and Mary Muth
Interpretive Center.
Cost: Free
Parking: Free
Contact: (949) 923-2290
Special Instructions: Get ready to get dirty! Please wear old
clothes and closed toed shoes or rain boots as most locations are muddy.
Help reduce plastic use by bringing gloves and a bucket if you have
them. You can also bring a reusable water bottle. Registration
is required, sign up online at www.coastkeeper.com/uppernewportbay.
September 15 – Wolves, Coyotes
and Wildlife
8 – 8:45 p.m.
Wolf Haven International, a nonprofit
sanctuary for captive-born wolves, presents Wolves, Coyotes and Wildlife, a
family friendly educational program about wolf behavior, biology and social
structure. This education program takes a close look at the differences
and similarities between wolf and coyote biology, behavior, social structure,
historical and current ranges, and ecosystem roles. As wild wolves are
now naturally recolonizing back into California, the program focuses on hiking
and backpacking in wolf country. We’ll also look at how our domesticated dogs
compare and contrast with these wild canids. The mission of the program is to
embrace biodiversity and facilitate peaceful coexistence of all species.
Location: O’Neill Regional Park. 30892 Trabuco
Canyon Road, Trabuco Canyon, CA 92678
Cost: Free
Parking: Free
Contact: (949) 923-2260
September 16 – 3rd Sunday Restoration Day
7:30 – 10:30 a.m.
Help park rangers in Peters Canyon
Regional Park remove invasive and non-native plants to keep native habitat
healthy, in turn helping the wildlife thrive.
Location:
Peters Canyon Regional Park. 8548 E. Canyon View Ave., Orange, CA 92869
Cost: Free
Parking: Free
Contact: (949) 923-2235
Special Instructions: Please bring water, sunscreen, hat, snacks, gloves and
closed toe shoes. Ages 12 and up. Registration is required, sign up
online at www.letsgooutside.org/3rdsunday.
September 19 – Journey to
Black Star’s Red Rocks- Photography Hike
7:30 – 10:30 a.m.
Capture the beauty of Black Star’s Red Rocks in the early morning
light. Many of us have enjoyed looking at the color and geometry of this rock
formation from Black Star road. However, due to the distance, the texture and
detail of the rock surfaces is missing. In addition, we have missed the total
picture that includes the surrounding wilderness with its trees, creek and
animals.
Location: Black Star Canyon Wilderness Park, Black
Star Staging Area
Cost: Free
Parking: Free
Special Instructions: Bring your camera equipment or just
yourself and enjoy this iconic rock formation. We will enjoy several
viewing/photo stops at picturesque locations. Registration is required, sign up online at www.letsgooutside.org/photo.
September 20 – Fitness Hike at Canyon View
8:30 – 11 a.m.
Raise your heart rate and your spirits
on this strenuous, fast-paced, 6-mile hike over steep and uneven terrain
(400-ft elevation gain) with Laguna Canyon Foundation volunteers.
Location: Aliso and Wood Canyons Wilderness Park. 28373
Alicia Parkway, Laguna Niguel, CA 92677. Begin at Wood Canyon Trail off Canyon
Vistas in Aliso Viejo. From Pacific Park/Canyon Vistas intersection, go
northwest on Canyon Vistas. Park legally (note street signs) on or near Canyon
Vistas, preferably between Coastal Oak and Madia (22100 region of Canyon
Vistas).
Cost: Free
Parking: Free
Contact: (949) 923-2200
Special Instructions: Ages 15 and up. Registration is
required, sign up online at www.eventbrite.com/fitnesshike. This is a strenuous, fast-paced hike.
Please be sure you can maintain a 19-minute mile pace.
September 20 – Advanced Cardio Hike: Limestone Ridge, Dripping Springs and
Sandtrap
5:30
– 8 p.m.
Join us for a strenuous, extremely
challenging, fast-paced, afternoon cardio hike starting in Limestone Canyon.
Along the way we’ll be rewarded with panoramic views of Orange County and
possible wildlife sightings.
Location: Limestone Canyon Nature Preserve, Augustine Staging Area
Cost: Free
Parking: Free
Special Instructions: Please bring a minimum of 70 oz. water and
trail snacks. Come prepared with a pack, sturdy closed toed hiking shoes
or boots, sunscreen, first aid, and all other supplies to keep you safe and
healthy on the trail for the extreme fast-paced hike in a wilderness area. Each
participant must carry his or her own pack and water. Under-prepared
participants may be denied access to this program. Registration is required,
sign up online at www.letsgooutside.org/cardiohike.
September 21 – Better Birding Basics: Fall Bird Migration
8 – 11 a.m.
In September, some of the birds that breed in the
north return to their winter feeding grounds in the warmer south. Many of them
stop along the way at sites like Agua Chinon. Join other birders as we search
for migrating as well as resident birds by both ear and eye in this beautiful
arroyo canyon.
Location: Limestone Canyon Nature Preserve, Portola-Agua Chinon Staging Area
Cost: Free
Parking: Free
September 21 – The Lure and Lull of Limestone Canyon and The
Sinks Equestrian Ride or Dripping Springs
10 a.m. – 2 p.m.
Take a leisurely equestrian ride through beautiful
Limestone Canyon, home of oak woodlands, grasslands, and coastal sage
scrub. View evidence of the old ranch days when cattle once roamed the
area, and see some of the wild flowers that are native to our area. You
will also see some of the designated natural landmarks of the area.
Location: Limestone Canyon Nature Preserve.
Cost: Free
Parking: Free
Special Instructions: Registration is required, sign up
online at www.letsgooutside.org/lureandlull.
September
21 - Animal Art I – Preschool Program
10:15 – 11:15
a.m.
Join us for an hour of creativity and fun with an animal theme! Class
includes hands-on learning, fun crafts and meeting zoo animals up close!
Location: OC Zoo. 1 Irvine Park Rd, Orange, CA 92869
Cost: $5 per child (includes one adult)
Parking: $3 per vehicle
Contact: (714) 973-6846
Special Instructions: Ages 3 to 4 years old only. Parent must
accompany child for duration of program. Registration is required! Call (714)
973-6846 to register.
September 27 – Fitness Hike at Dilley
8:30 – 11 a.m.
This is a stenuous, fast-paced hike.
Please be sure you can maintain a 19 minute mile pace. Please arrive 15 minutes
early. Raise your heart rate and your spirits on this strenuous, fast-paced
5.5-mile hike over steep and uneven terrain (900 ft. elevation gain) with
Laguna Canyon Foundation volunteers.
Location: Laguna
Coast Wilderness Park. 18751 Laguna Canyon Road, Laguna Beach, CA 92651. James
Dilley Preserve (I-5 or 405 south to 133 south to stoplight at 73 toll road;
and make a U-turn, go 1
block. Dilley is on the right.
Cost: Free
Parking: Free
Contact: (949) 923-2235
Special Instructions: Ages 15 and up. Registration is required,
sign up online at www.eventbrite.com/fitnesshike. Please wear hiking
shoes and bring plenty of water.
September
27 – Feathery Friends Preschool Program
10:15 – 11:15
a.m.
Come learn about birds that can fly and even those that can’t fly!
Class includes hands-on learning, fun crafts, and meeting zoo animals up
close!
Location: OC Zoo. 1 Irvine Park Rd, Orange, CA 92869
Cost: $5 per child (includes one adult)
Parking: $3 per vehicle
Contact: (714) 973-6846
Special Instructions: Ages 3 to 4 years old only. Parent must
accompany child for duration of program. Registration is required! Call (714)
973-6846 to register.
September 28 –Hike to East Sinks Viewing Deck: Limestone Canyon
7
– 11 a.m.
Come along with us on this fast-paced
morning hike through beautiful Limestone Canyon Nature Preserve to the East
Sinks Viewing Deck. You’ll be rewarded
with a spectacular view of The Sinks as well as sweeping views of Orange County
and the Santa Ana Mountains. This hike involves steep climbs and descents on
both double and single-track trails.
Location: Limestone Canyon Nature Preserve, Augustine Staging Area
Cost: Free
Parking: Free
Special Instructions: Ages 18 and up. Each participant must carry
their own day pack and water and be comfortable hiking an average moving pace
of 3.5-4 miles per hour. Please make sure you bring a minimum of 70 oz. (2
quarts) of water and trail snacks. Under-prepared participants may be denied
access to this program. Please come prepared. Registration is required, sign up
online at www.letsgooutside.org/eastsinks.
September 29 – The
Hummingbird Nest Story
8 – 8:45
p.m.
Come join
wildlife photographer Kim Michaels, Certified Interpretive Guide, and enjoy a
rare look into the lives of hummingbirds. Michaels has captured the entire
six-week nesting process, including detailed images of a chick’s birth, growth,
first flight, and fledge. Enjoy a revealing look at female hummingbirds,
nature’s hard-working single moms. Learn about the hummingbird circle of life.
See how a mother hummingbird builds her nest and raises her chicks.
Location: O’Neill Regional Park. 30892 Trabuco
Canyon Road, Trabuco Canyon, CA 92678
Cost: Free
Parking: Free
Contact: (949) 923-2260
September 30 – Bird Walk
8 – 11 a.m.
Spot local native
and seasonal resident birds with Laguna Canyon Foundation volunteer naturalists
on this slow and easy 2-mile walk through a landscaped suburban parkland
setting at Mason Regional Park. No experience necessary!
Location: William R. Mason Regional Park. 18712
University Drive, Irvine, CA 92612. Turn right at the stop sign after the park
entrance and park in Parking Lot A. We will meet at the Butterfly Habitat at 9
a.m.
Cost: Free
Parking: $5 per vehicle.
Contact: (949) 923-2220
Special Instructions: Wear hiking or walking shoes; bring
binoculars! Ages 12 and up (minors must be accompanied by adult). Registration
is required, sign up online at www.eventbrite.com/birdwalk.
September 30 – Crafty Kids Sundays
10 a.m. – 3 p.m.
Come join us
for a fun themed craft project anytime between 10 a.m. and 3 p.m.! Crafty Kids
Sunday features FREE craft activities in the Muth Interpretive Center’s
Discovery Classroom.
Location: Upper Newport Bay Nature Preserve. 2301
University Drive, Newport Beach, CA 92660
Cost: Free
Parking: Free
Contact: (949) 923-2290
Special Instructions: All ages are welcome, recommended for ages 2
to 10 years old. No registration is required. Children must be accompanied by
an adult.
September 30 – Then and Now
Public Program
1 – 3 p.m.
Come out to Clark Regional Park on the
last Sunday of every month to learn about the animals that ruled the land
10,000 years ago and the animals living in Orange County today. Visit the Show
and Share activity table for hands-on exhibits and discover the similarities
and differences between past and present animals.
Location: Clark Regional Park. 8800 Rosecrans Ave.
Buena Park, CA 90621. Meet at interpretive center.
Cost: Free
Parking: $5 per vehicle
Contact: (714) 973-3170
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