OC Parks October 2014 Calendar of Events

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Here are some highlights from the OC Parks October Calendar of events, if you are looking for hiking ideas or other outdoor events in the month of October, make sure to check out some of these great events!

OC Parks OCTOBER 2014 calendar of events
October 2 – Fitness Hike at Dilley 
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 (900-ft. elevation gain) with Laguna Canyon Foundation volunteers. 
Location: Laguna Coast Wilderness Park. 18751 Laguna Canyon Road, Laguna Beach, CA 92651
Cost: $2 donation per person Parking: $3 per vehicle
Contact: (949) 923-2235
Special Instructions:  Ages 15 and up. Reservations required, sign-up online: www.lagunacanyon.org/activities. James Dilley Preserve (405 South to 133 South to stoplight at 73 turn-off; make a U-turn, go 1 block. Dilley is on the right). For questions, call (949) 497-8324.

October 2, 9, 16, 23, 31 – Tideland Tykes
10:30 – 11:30 a.m.
Join our preserve staff for a fun-filled parent and child experience that may include arts and crafts, storytelling, hands-on activities or outdoor nature walks. Come prepared for an exciting outdoor experience!
Location: Upper Newport Bay. 2301 University Drive, Newport Beach, CA 92660
Cost: $5 per student Parking: Free
Contact: (949) 923-2290
Special Instructions: Ages 2 to 8 years recommended. Space is limited and registration is required. Please call (949) 923-2275, or email unbic@ocparks.com to register.

October 3 – Explore the Plants on the Trail to Barbara’s Lake
9 – 11:30 a.m.
Join us on a wonderful morning walk to Orange County’s only natural lake while learning about our native California plant life. This 2-mile leisurely hike will be led by Laguna Canyon Foundation volunteer naturalists.
Location: Laguna Coast Wilderness Park. 18751 Laguna Canyon Road, Laguna Beach, CA 92651
Cost: $2 donation per person Parking: $3 per vehicle
Contact: (949) 923-2235
Special Instructions:  Ages 8 and up. Online reservations required, sign-up online: www.lagunacanyon.org/activities. Little Sycamore Canyon Staging Area/Nix Nature Center (west side of Laguna Canyon Road/SR-133, approximately 3.5-miles south of I-5/405). For questions, call (949) 497-8324.

October 3, 10, 17, 24, 31 – Wild Tales
10:30 – 11:30 a.m.
Visit with Preserve staff for story-telling fun! After a story, learn more about the natural history of the Bay through crafts, hands-on activities and nature walks. Come prepared for an exciting outdoor experience!
Location: Upper Newport Bay. 2301 University Drive, Newport Beach, CA 92660
Cost: $5 per student Parking: Free
Contact: (949) 923-2290
Special Instructions: Ages 2 to 8 years. Space is limited and pre-registration is required. Please call (949) 923-2275, or email unbic@ocparks.com to register.  

October 3, 9, 15, 31 – Bats, Cats & Spiders – Preschool Program 
10 – 11 a.m.
Come learn all about creatures that are associated with Halloween! Class includes hands-on learning, spooky crafts, and meeting zoo animals up close!
Location: Orange County Zoo. 1 Irvine Park Road, Orange, CA 92869
Website: http://www.ocparks.com/oczoo/
Cost: $5 per child (one parent included) Parking: $3 per vehicle
Contact: (714) 973-6846
Special Instructions: PHONE REGISTRATION REQUIRED. Call Marcy Crede-Booth, Education Coordinator at (714) 973-6846. For ages 3 to 4 years old. Parent must accompany child for duration of program. Additional parents/siblings/family/friends must pay admission fee to enter zoo.

October 4, 5 – Battle of the Paddle
7:30 a.m. – 6 p.m.
The Rainbow Sandals Gerry Lopez Battle of the Paddle will bring paddlers from all over two full days of competition. Events will include kids, open and elite competitors, along with an expo and Kids Zone.
Location: Salt Creek Beach Park. 33333 S. Pacific Coast Hwy., Dana Point, CA 92629
Cost: Free
Contact: (949) 496-5517   
Special Instructions: Parking: Concierge shuttle service is provided free of charge to all spectators, competitors and exhibitors, direct to the event site. Shuttles will transport from parking lots at Dana Hills High School, Strands Beach Park and Salt Creek before, during and after. Visit www.battleofthepaddle.com for more information.
 
October 4, 18  – Redwood Hike
8:30 – 10 a.m.
Join OC Parks' trained staff on the first and third Saturday of the month for an easy 1.1-mile hike to the park's Coastal Redwood grove. You will use your 5 senses to engage with nature as you stroll to the Redwoods. You will also have an opportunity to learn about our native plants along the way. The hike begins each Saturday and Sunday morning at 8:30 a.m. from the park's Nature Center. Don't forget to visit our Nature Center when you are there, too!
Location: Carbon Canyon Regional Park. 4442 Carbon Canyon Road, Brea, CA 92823
Website: http://www.ocparks.com/carboncanyon/
Cost: Free Parking: $5 per vehicle
Contact: (714) 973-3160
Special Instructions: All ages. Participants should remember water, sunscreen, hat, hiking shoes. Meet at Nature Center located at east end of the park. Reservations preferred, please call (714) 973-3160 or email carboncanyon@ocparks.com. A minimum group of 5 or more is needed for a staff led interpretive hike.

October 4, 11, 18, 25 – Nature Walk 
9 – 10:30 a.m.
Join our Naturalists on a nature walk and learn about Trabuco Canyon animals and nature. Light to moderate walk on mostly paved roads. Meet at the Nature Center just inside the main entrance of the park.
Location: O’Neill Regional Park. 30982 Trabuco Canyon Road, Trabuco Canyon, CA 92678
Cost: Free Parking: $5 per vehicle
Contact: (949) 923-2260
Special Instructions: All ages welcome. Event is conditional on the weather.

October 4, 18 – Beginning Archery Class
9 – 10 a.m.
Join Park Rangers and volunteers for an introductory archery class at the brand new archery range at Mile Square Regional Park. This one-hour class will introduce participants to basics of the exciting sport of archery.
Location: Mile Square Regional Park. 16801 Euclid, Fountain Valley, CA 92708
Cost: Free Parking: $5 per vehicle
Contact: (714) 973-6600

October 4 – CPF Monthly Meeting 
9:30 – 11 a.m.
Interested in volunteering at Caspers Wilderness Park? Join the Caspers Park Foundation (CPF) for their monthly volunteer meeting held in the Caspers Wilderness Park Nature Center. This is a great opportunity to learn just what volunteers, do as well as meet others who love nature, the outdoors and preserving the park for all. 
General business meeting starts at 9:30 a.m., followed by an informative lecture presented by guest speakers at 10 a.m. October Guest Speaker - Michael Lindsey. Subject – Stories of the Santa Ana Mountains’ Past.  
Location: Caspers Wilderness Park. 33401 Ortega Highway, San Juan Capistrano, CA 92675
Website: www.ocparks.com/caspers/
Cost: Free Parking: Free
Contact: (949) 923-2210
Special Instructions: Ages 16 years and up. For more information, call the park office at (949) 923-2210.


October 4 – Acorn Day
10 a.m. – 2 p.m.
Come join us under the oaks at O’Neill Regional Park. There will be ranger-led hikes and interpretive programs for families, as well as crafts, games, tree planting and much, much more.
Live animals will be on exhibit with a petting zoo! There will also be a butterfly enclosure. Presentations will be going on throughout the day, including storytelling and acorn preparation demonstrations.  
Location: O’Neill Regional Park. 30982 Trabuco Canyon Road, Trabuco Canyon, CA 92678
Cost: Free Parking: $5 per vehicle
Contact: (949) 923-2260
Special Instructions: All ages welcome. Food available for nominal fee.

October 4, 11, 18, 25 – Guided Interpretive Hike
10 – 11 a.m.
Join our naturalists on a nature walk and learn about the local plants, animals and history of Irvine Park. Light to moderate walking on both paved paths and trails.
Location: Irvine Regional Park. 1 Irvine Park Road, Orange, CA 92869 Website: www.ocparks.com/irvinepark/
Cost: Free Parking: $5 per vehicle 
Contact: (714) 973–6835
Special Instructions: All ages welcome. Meet at the Nature Center near the OC Zoo in parking lot #19.

October 4 – Visit Orange County’s Past Historical Walk 
10 a.m. – 2 p.m.
Celebrate the 125th Anniversary of Orange County. Enjoy historic highlights and presentations by special guests and Park Rangers in the newly restored Soda Fountain Pavilion. Join us as we embark on a Park Ranger led walking tour of historic Irvine Regional Park. 

OC Historical Societies will also have the opportunity to display information about their organizations. Food will be available for purchase from food trucks on site, and the event will conclude with an old fashioned ice cream social.
Location: Irvine Regional Park. 1 Irvine Park Road, Orange, CA 92869 Website: www.ocparks.com/irvinepark/
Cost: $5 per person 13 years and over
Contact: (714) 973–6835
Special Instructions: Entry includes: parking, a copy of 100 Years of Yesterday, AAA historical site map, entry to the OC Zoo and participation in the old fashioned ice cream social.

October 4, 11, 18, 25 – Ranger Led Campfire Program
8 – 9 p.m.
Join us on Saturday nights at the amphitheater for this Ranger led talk on local animal life, set to the glow of fire light. This event is only open to those camping at O’Neill Regional Park. No access for day use after sunset.
Location: O’Neill Regional Park. 30982 Trabuco Canyon Road, Trabuco Canyon, CA 92678
Cost: Free
Contact: (949) 923-2260 or (949) 923-2256
Special Instructions: All ages welcome. Event is outdoors and dependent on weather conditions. 

October 4, 11, 25 – Campfire Program
8 – 9 p.m.
Every Saturday night, join us for a campfire program that may include a slide presentation, wilderness safety, games and activities for children, animal adaptations, skins and skulls, a live animal demonstration and a chance to visit the Nature Center. Topics may vary weekly.
Location: Caspers Wilderness Park. 33401 Ortega Highway, San Juan Capistrano, CA 92675
Website: www.ocparks.com/caspers/
Cost: Free Parking: $5 per vehicle
Contact: (949) 923-2210
Special Instructions: All ages welcome!

October 5, 12, 19, 26 – Nature Hike
8 – 9 a.m.
Join our Park Rangers Sunday mornings for an easy 1-mile hike on the Nature Trail. The trail takes visitors through grassland, oak woodland, riparian and sandy cactus scrub communities. Meet at Old Corral Day Use area. Rain will cancel hike. 
Location: Caspers Wilderness Park.  33401 Ortega Highway, San Juan Capistrano, CA 92675
Website: www.ocparks.com/caspers/
Cost: Free Parking: $5 per vehicle
Contact: (949) 923-2210
Special Instructions: Wear comfortable clothing and hiking shoes. Sunscreen, water and insect repellent are recommended. For additional information, please call the park at (949) 923-2210.

October 7, 11, 21, 25 – Modjeska House Tour 
10 a.m. – 12 p.m.
Docent-led tour of the historic house and grounds.
Location: 25151 Serrano Road, Lake Forest, CA 92630-2534
Website: http://www.ocparks.com/modjeskahouse/
Contact: (949) 923–2230
Cost: $5 per person
Special Instructions: Advance reservations required, call (949) 923-2230. Directions provided with reservations. 

October 9 – Fitness Hike at Little Sycamore
8:30 – 10:30 a.m.
Raise your heart rate and your spirits on this difficult, strenuous and fast-paced, 4.8-mile hike (400-ft. elevation gain) over very steep, uneven terrain with Laguna Canyon Foundation volunteers.  
Location: Laguna Coast Wilderness Park. 18751 Laguna Canyon Road, Laguna Beach, CA 92651
Cost: $2 donation per person Parking: $3 per vehicle
Contact: (949) 923-2235
Special Instructions:  Ages 15 and up. Online reservations required, sign-up online: www.lagunacanyon.org/activities. Not for beginners. Hiking poles suggested. Little Sycamore Canyon Staging Area/Nix Nature Center (west side of Laguna Canyon Road/SR-133, approximately 3.5-miles south of I-5/405). For questions, call (949) 497-8324.

October 11 – 2nd Saturday Trail Work Day
8:30 – 11 a.m.
Come join park staff and our trail leaders by volunteering to assist with habitat restoration, non-native plant removal and trail work throughout Irvine Regional Park. Please wear jeans and durable shoes or boots. Park provides tools and gloves. Bring sunscreen, hat, snacks and water.
Location: Irvine Regional Park. 1 Irvine Park Road, Orange, CA 92869 Website: www.ocparks.com/irvinepark/
Cost: Free Parking: Free for volunteers 
Contact: (714) 973–6835
Special Instructions: Ideal for ages 12 and up. Minors must be accompanied by an adult. Large school groups/companies welcome, call (714) 973-6836 for group registration.

October 11 – Morning Fitness Hike
9 – 10:30 a.m.
Take a mildly strenuous 2.5-mile hike along the Back Bay with Preserve staff. Hike will begin in front of the Muth Center, please meet on the patio at 8:45 a.m. Restrooms and water fountain are available. The hike is on both paved and dirt paths with mostly flat surfaces.
This hike explores the uplands area of the bay – with opportunities to see birds, mammals and reptiles that make this habitat their home. Minimal interpretation, but questions are welcomed.
Location: Upper Newport Bay. 2301 University Drive, Newport Beach, CA 92660
Cost: $5 per student Parking: Free
Contact: (949) 923-2290
Special Instructions: Space is limited and pre-registration is required. Please call (949) 923-2275, or email unbic@ocparks.com to register.  

October 11 – California Native Plant & Wildflower Hike    
9 a.m. – 12 p.m.
Learn to identify native plants with Laguna Canyon Foundation volunteer naturalists on this moderate paced, steep and rocky, 3.5-mile hike (600-ft. elevation gain).
Location: Laguna Coast Wilderness Park. 18751 Laguna Canyon Road, Laguna Beach, CA 92651
Cost: $2 donation per person Parking: $3 per vehicle  
Contact: (949) 923-2235
Special Instructions: Ages 12 and up. Reservations required, sign-up online: www.lagunacanyon.org/activities. Little Sycamore Canyon Staging Area/Nix Nature Center (west side of Laguna Canyon Road/SR-133, approximately 3.5-miles south of I-5/405). For questions, call (949) 497-8324.

October 11 – Whiting Ranch Poker Ride 2014
9 a.m. – 1 p.m.
OC Parks and Oakley invite you to ride the trails and test your luck at the Whiting Ranch Poker Ride! Participants will ride their mountain bike through an adventurous course of trails, navigating their way through checkpoints along the way. After hitting all the checkpoints, riders will be dealt a poker hand to compete for awesome prizes!
Following the ride, various mountain bike exhibits will be set up at the Glenn Ranch staging area. Food will also be available for purchase.
Location: Whiting Ranch Wilderness Park. 26707 Portola Parkway, Lake Forest, CA 92620 
Website: http://ocparks.com/whitingranch/
Cost: Free Parking: Free
Contact: (949) 923-2245

October 11 – Weekends at the Nix Nature Center: Amazing Birds of Prey Day 
1 – 4 p.m.
Get a close-up look at live hawks, owls, and falcons from the Orange County Bird of Prey Center. Learn to identify raptors in flight.  Dissect an owl pellet. Find out how owls fly silently and discover other raptor survival secrets! Live raptor presentation by Bird of Prey Center’s Peggy Chase at 2 p.m.
Location: Laguna Coast Wilderness Park. 18751 Laguna Canyon Road, Laguna Beach, CA 92651
Cost: Free, donations appreciated Parking: $3 per vehicle
Contact: (949) 923-2235
Special Instructions:  Online reservations required, sign-up online: www.lagunacanyon.org/activities. Little Sycamore Canyon Staging Area/Nix Nature Center (west side of Laguna Canyon Road/SR-133, approximately 3.5-miles south of I-5/405). For questions, call (949) 497-8324.
October 11 – Autumn Harvest Festival
4 – 9 p.m.
Halloween costume parade, games, family entertainment, haunted school house, maze, Trick or Treating throughout the park. Docents will provide narrative tours in the buildings.
Location: Heritage Hill Historical Park. 25151 Serrano Road, Lake Forest, CA 92630
Cost: $5 per person ages 3 and over.  Parking: Free
Contact: (949) 923-2230
Special Instructions: This is a family-friendly event and children are encouraged to come in costume.

October 12 – Second Sunday Restoration Program
9 a.m. – 12 p.m.
Join Preserve staff and other volunteers in enhancing the Bay’s habitat for local wildlife. Activities may include non-native plant removal, planting natives, watering, trash cleanup and Butterfly Garden maintenance. No experience is necessary; water, snacks and tools are provided. 
Location: Upper Newport Bay. 2301 University Drive, Newport Beach, CA 92660
Cost: Free Parking: Free
Contact: (949) 923-2290
Special Instructions: Minors aged 16 and younger must have legal guardian present at all times. Space is limited and pre-registration is required. Please call (949) 923-2275, or email unbic@ocparks.com to register. Rain or heat advisories cancels event.

October 12 – Prehistoric OC  
10 a.m. – 3 p.m.     
The Dr. John D. Cooper Archaeological and Paleontological Center will celebrate International Archaeology Day and National Fossil Day with a free educational family event. The Prehistoric OC festival presents Orange County’s rich heritage of natural history, prehistoric animals and plants, and Native American culture to the community.
Prehistoric OC is fun for both young and old, with a number of activities including archeological and paleontological demonstrations and exhibits, a Junior Scientist Camp featuring educational crafts and hands-on activities. The event will feature volcano demonstrations, Native American storytelling and lectures by leading experts on archeology, paleontology and geology. And, Brew Hawg and Roman Nose Fy Bread will be on hand with delicious food and drinks.
Location: Clark Regional Park. 8800 Rosecrans Ave., Buena Park, CA 90621
Website: http://ocparks.com/parks/ralph/
Cost: Free Parking: $5 per vehicle
Contact: (714) 973–3170  

October 14 – Dilley Loop Nature Hike
9 – 11 a.m.
Get close to nature on this leisurely 2-mile hike (370-ft. elevation gain) over steep and uneven terrain as you spot plants and animals or maybe their tracks and signs along the way.
Location: Laguna Coast Wilderness Park. 18751 Laguna Canyon Road, Laguna Beach, CA 92651
Cost: $2 donation per person Parking: $3 per vehicle
Contact: (949) 923-2235
Special Instructions:  Ages 12 and up. Reservations required, sign-up online: www.lagunacanyon.org/activities. James Dilley Preserve (405 South to 133 South to stoplight at 73 turn-off; make a U-turn, go 1 block. Dilley is on the right). For questions, call (949) 497-8324.

October 16 – Fitness Hike at Ridge Park
8:30 – 11 a.m.
Raise your heart rate and your spirits on this difficult, strenuous and fast-paced, 6.5-mile hike (700-ft. elevation gain) over very steep, uneven terrain with Laguna Canyon Foundation volunteers.  
Location: Laguna Coast Wilderness Park. 18751 Laguna Canyon Road, Laguna Beach, CA 92651
Cost: $2 donation per person Parking: $3 per vehicle
Contact: (949) 923-2235
Special Instructions:  Ages 15 and up. Online reservations required, sign-up online: www.lagunacanyon.org/activities. Not for beginners. Hiking poles suggested. Ridge Park Staging Area (Newport Coast Drive to Ridge Park Rd. east to end; meet at the gate.) For questions, call (949) 497-8324.

October 17 – A Morning Stroll to Barbara’s Lake
9 – 11:30 a.m.
Enjoy an outdoor stroll to Barbara’s Lake (Orange County’s only natural lake) on this leisurely paced, level, 2-mile hike with Laguna Canyon Foundation volunteer naturalists.
Location: Laguna Coast Wilderness Park. 18751 Laguna Canyon Road, Laguna Beach, CA 92651
Cost: $2 donation per person Parking: $3 per vehicle
Contact: (949) 923-2235
Special Instructions: All ages welcome! Reservations required, sign-up online: www.lagunacanyon.org/activities. Little Sycamore Canyon Staging Area/Nix Nature Center (west side of Laguna Canyon Rd/SR-133, approximately 3.5 miles south of I-5/405). For questions, call (949) 497-8324.

October 17-18 – Haunt at Heritage Hill
6 – 10:30 p.m.
Haunted house, mazes, goblins, music, stage performances, classic horror movie screening. Wear your costumes and come be part of this scary tradition.
Location: Heritage Hill Historical Park. 25151 Serrano Road, Lake Forest, CA 92630
Cost: $7 per person Parking: Free
Contact: (949) 923-2230
Special Instructions: Frightfully good fun recommended for 12 years old and up.

October 17 – Mason Movie Nights Under the Stars – Monsters University
6 – 9 p.m.
OC Parks is pleased to announce Mason Movie Nights Under the Stars! Join us on October 17 for a viewing of Monsters University. Bring a chair or blanket and find a spot on the grass in Mason Park’s beautiful amphitheater. You are welcome to bring your own picnic; there will be free popcorn and bottled water available for everyone. Additional refreshments will be available for a nominal fee.
Location: Mason Regional Park. 18712 University Drive, Irvine, CA 92612
Cost: Free Parking: Free after 5 p.m.   
Contact: (949) 923-2220
Special Instructions: Reservations are not necessary. Parking will be free after 5 p.m. and the movie will begin around sunset, approximately 6:15 p.m. This is an outdoor event, please dress accordingly. Rain will cancel event.

October 18 – Non Dot Adventures OC Classic MTB Bike Race  
7:30 – 10:30 a.m.
On Saturday October 18, Caspers Wilderness Park will be the venue for the Non Dot Adventures Bike Race.
Staging will take place at Old Corral Picnic Area. The following trails will be closed during event from 7:30am to 10:30am: East Ridge, Sun Rise, Cougar Pass, Oso and Bell Canyon
Location: Caspers Wilderness Park. 33401 Ortega Highway, San Juan Capistrano, CA 92675
Website: www.ocparks.com/caspers/
Contact: (949) 923-2210
Special Instructions: Visit www.nondotadventures.com for more information.

October 18 – Keep It Wild Volunteer Day
8 – 11 a.m.
Come on out and help restore the wild lands we so enjoy! There’s no better way to start a Saturday morning than by joining Laguna Canyon Foundation and OC Parks staff in an invigorating project of non-native plant removal and/or planting native plants. Help us make a healthier environment for the native wildlife and for ourselves.
Location: Laguna Coast Wilderness Park. 18751 Laguna Canyon Road, Laguna Beach, CA 92651
Cost: Free Parking: Free for Keep It Wild Volunteers
Contact: (949) 923-2235
Special Instructions: Reservations required, sign-up online: www.lagunacanyon.org/activities. Little Sycamore Staging Are/Nix Nature Center (west side of Laguna Canyon Rd/SR-133, approximately 3.5 miles south of I 5/405). For questions, call (949) 497-8324. 

October 18 – Wildlife Crafting
9:30 – 11:30 a.m.
Please join our staff for a morning of outdoor crafting! We will draw creative inspiration from things we find within the park to help us make simple crafts. Wear your favorite smock or “artist attire” as creativity can be messy!
Location: Yorba Regional Park. 7600 E. La Palma, Anaheim, CA 92807
Cost: Free Parking: $5 per vehicle
Contact: (714) 973-6615
Special Instructions:  Option: Bring a t-shirt to design! This event will be outside, please bring water and sunscreen.

October 18 – Family Hike
3 – 5 p.m.
Join us on this very enjoyable, easy 3-mile hike over moderate but uneven terrain (100-ft. elevation gain). Families welcome. You will hike in one of the most diverse areas of the park, through a canopy of oaks, part Barbara’s Lake and back. Led by Laguna Canyon Foundation volunteers.
Location: Laguna Coast Wilderness Park. 18751 Laguna Canyon Road, Laguna Beach, CA 92651
Cost: $2 donation per person Parking: $3 per vehicle
Contact: (949) 923-2235
Special Instructions:  Reservations required, sign-up online: www.lagunacanyon.org/activities. Laguna Coast Wilderness Park, James Dilley Preserve (east side of Laguna Canyon Rd/Sr-133, just north of 73 Toll Road). For questions, call (949) 497-8324.

October 18 – Star Party 
7 – 9 p.m.
Come for a grand tour of the universe! Join Allan and other amateur astronomers and have a look in the telescopes to see Mars and Saturn. Take a guided tour of the summer constellations and learn the myths and facts about the cosmos. Observe the wonders of the night sky including nebulas, galaxies, star clusters and double stars.
Location: Caspers Wilderness Park. 33401 Ortega Highway, San Juan Capistrano, CA 92675
Website: www.ocparks.com/caspers/
Cost: Free Parking: $5 per vehicle
Contact: (949) 923-2210
Special Instructions: Held only on evenings with clear skies. Call park at (949) 923-2210 for weather-sky updates or additional information. 

October 19 – Morning Walk Around the Lake
9 – 11 a.m.
Come enjoy a wonderful morning walk around the lake and learn about the native plants and critters in the park. This is an easy 2.5-mile walk (both paved and dirt trail) with no elevation gain. Led by Laguna Canyon Foundation Volunteer Naturalists. Dogs on leashes welcome!
Location: Laguna Niguel Regional Park. 28241 La Paz Road, Laguna Niguel, CA 92677
Cost: $2 donation per person Parking: $5 per vehicle 
Contact: (949) 923-2240
Special Instructions: Ages 8 and up. Reservations required, sign-up online: www.lagunacanyon.org/activities. Meet at the parking lot in front of Shelter 3. For questions, call (949) 497-8324.

October 23 – Fitness Hike at Willow  
8:30 – 10:30 a.m.
Raise your heart rate and your spirits on this difficult, strenuous and fast-paced, 5.5-mile hike (400-ft. elevation gain) over steep and uneven terrain with Laguna Canyon Foundation volunteers.
Location: Laguna Coast Wilderness Park. 18751 Laguna Canyon Road, Laguna Beach, CA 92651
Cost: $2 donation per person Parking: $3 per vehicle
Contact: (949) 923-2235
Special Instructions: Ages 15 and up. Reservations required, sign-up online: www.lagunacanyon.org/activities. Willow Canyon Staging Area (20101 Laguna Canyon Road, just south of El Toro Road intersection). For questions, call (949) 497-8324.

October 24 – Creepy Crawly Critters Night Hike
6 – 7:30 p.m.
Come see Peters Canyon Regional Park in a completely different setting – in the dark! Park rangers will lead a starlit hike showcasing the natural wonders that can only be seen at night. The free family event will feature many fun activities, including a live animal presentation with crawly critters, hot cocoa and creepy treats, as well as a hike through the wilderness area.
Location: Peters Canyon Regional Park. 8548 E. Canyon View Ave., Orange, CA 92869
Website: http://ocparks.com/peterscanyon/
Cost: Free Parking: $3 per vehicle
Contact: (714) 973-6611
Special Instructions: Space is limited, please call (714) 973-6611 or email peterscanyon@ocparks.com to register. This is an outdoor event, please dress warmly, wear good walking shoes and bring a flashlight. Sorry, not dogs allowed on the hike.

October 25 – Long Distance Hike in the Back Country
8 – 11:30 a.m.
Explore the beauty and diversity of two canyons, Little Sycamore and Laurel Canyon, in the backcountry of the Laguna Coast Wilderness Park. This will be a strenuous, 8.2-mile hike (770-ft. elevation gain) over rocky and uneven terrain. We will hike through sycamore and oak woodlands, riparian habitats, coastal sage scrub, and open grassland. Participants should be fit and able to hike long distances. For your safety and comfort bring 2-3 liters of water, a hat, a hearty snack and proper hiking shoes.  
Location: Laguna Coast Wilderness Park. 18751 Laguna Canyon Road, Laguna Beach, CA 92651
Cost: $2 donation per person Parking: $3 per vehicle
Contact: (949) 923-2235
Special Instructions:  Ages 15 and up. Online reservations required, sign-up online: www.lagunacanyon.org/activities. Not for beginners. Hiking poles suggested. Little Sycamore Canyon Staging Area/Nix Nature Center (west side of Laguna Canyon Road/SR-133, approximately 3.5-miles south of I-5/405). For questions, call (949) 497-8324.

October 25 – Halloween Zoo-tacular!
10 a.m. – 4 p.m.  
Fun activities include trick-or-treating (kids ages 12 & under), spooky crafts, a scavenger hunt and face painting! First 100 children (ages 12 & under) in costume receive a special gift!  Come see the zoo animals receive treat filled pumpkins throughout the day! Reservations are not needed. Activities are free with paid zoo admission
Location: Orange County Zoo. 1 Irvine Park Road, Orange, CA 92869
Website: http://www.ocparks.com/oczoo/
Cost: $2 per person Parking: $5 per vehicle weekends
Contact: (714) 973-6847
Special Instructions: For more information, or if you would like to volunteer for this event (must be at least 18 years old), call Marcy at (714) 973-6846.

October 26 – Birding Walk
8 – 11 a.m.
Spot local native spring resident birds with Laguna Canyon Foundation volunteer naturalists on this slow and easy 2-mile walk through a landscaped suburban parkland setting at Laguna Niguel Regional Park. Wear hiking or walking shoes; bring binoculars!
Location: Laguna Niguel Regional Park. 28241 La Paz Road, Laguna Niguel, CA 92677
Cost: $2 donation per person Parking: $5 per vehicle 
Contact: (949) 923-2240
Special Instructions: Ages 12 and up. Reservations required, sign-up online: www.lagunacanyon.org/activities. Enter park and make a right turn at the T intersection. Make a left into the first parking lot and meet at the far end. For questions, call (949) 497-8324.

October 26 – 300 Round Archery Tournament and Zombie Apocalypse Shootout – Compound and Freestyle Recurve
9 a.m. – 12 p.m.
Mile Square Regional Park invites compound and freestyle recurve archers 16 years or older to participate in our first ever 300 round tournament. This free event allows archers to showcase their skills in a friendly competition. After the 300 rounds, competitors are invited to stick around and participate in our sudden death zombie apocalypse shootout!
Location: Mile Square Regional Park. 16801 Euclid, Fountain Valley, CA 92708
Cost: Free Parking: $5 per vehicle
Contact: (714) 973-6600

October 26 – Family Science Sunday: Creepy Crawlies and Night Creatures
10 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Come explore the world of nocturnal animals and eight legged insects. Free activities in the Muth Interpretive Center classroom once a month, each with a different educational theme to explore. The activities are self-guided and may include hands on exhibits, outside hikes, crafts and more. Then join Preserve staff for storytime at 11 a.m. and 2 p.m.
Location: Upper Newport Bay. 2301 University Drive, Newport Beach, CA 92660
Cost: $5 per student Parking: Free
Contact: (949) 923-2290
Special Instructions: Recommended for ages 3 to 12.

October 26 – There’s More Than Meets The Eye At Clark Park  
1 – 3:30 p.m.    
Have you ever wondered “Where are all the animals in the park?” but haven’t a clue? See the park through the eyes of a Ranger and discover the hidden clues. Find out what animals ruled the land in Clark Park 10,000 years ago and what animals rule today.  Visit with Rangers at a Share and Show Exhibit located at Clark Park’s Fossil Museum front patio from 1 to 3 p.m. and discover the secrets of Clark Park. A moderate, 30–minute, ¾-of-a-mile, Ranger-led nature walk will follow. The walk will begin at the Share and Show Exhibit, continue past Elephant and Camel Hill and up Camel Hill, the highest point of Clark Park before looping back to the starting point. Fun activities will be available for both children and adults.
Location: Clark Regional Park. 8800 Rosecrans Ave., Buena Park, CA 90621
Website: http://ocparks.com/parks/ralph/
Cost: Free Parking: $5 per vehicle
Contact: (714) 973–3170 

October 26 – Pioneer Roundup
2 – 4 p.m.
Early pioneer family members and descendants attend this meeting at the Saddleback Area Historical Society to greet long-time friends and reminisce about old times in the Saddleback Valley. Come meet them, hear their stories, share your knowledge and learn about the early days of the Saddleback Valley area.
Location: Heritage Hill Historical Park. 25151 Serrano Road, Lake Forest, CA 92630
Cost: Free Parking: Free
Contact: (949) 923-2230

October 28 – Beginning Fitness Hike
9 – 10:30 a.m.
Now is a great time to start a new fitness routine beginning with an easy 2-mile hike over moderate but uneven terrain to Barbara’s Lake and back (100-ft. elevation gain). Join Laguna Canyon Foundation volunteer and registered dietitian to learn about fitness and nutrition during this 1.5-hour hike.
Location: Laguna Coast Wilderness Park. 18751 Laguna Canyon Road, Laguna Beach, CA 92651
Cost: $2 donation per person Parking: $3 per vehicle
Contact: (949) 923-2235
Special Instructions:  Ages 12 and up. Reservations required, sign-up online: www.lagunacanyon.org/activities. James Dilley Preserve (405 South to 133 South to stoplight at 73 turn-off; make a U-turn, go 1 block. Dilley is on the right). For questions, call (949) 497-8324. Wear walking or hiking shoes, hat, sunscreen and bring water.

October 31 – Halloween Hike and Star Gazing   
6 – 8:30 p.m.
Join Laguna Coast Wilderness Park staff for a slow 3.8-mile Halloween Hike over sometimes steep and uneven terrain (600-ft. elevation gain).  If the sky is clear, we will do some stargazing from the ridge. For those who are not afraid of the dark.
Location: Laguna Coast Wilderness Park. 18751 Laguna Canyon Road, Laguna Beach, CA 92651
Parking: $3 per vehicle
Contact: (949) 923-2235

Special Instructions: Ages 12 and up. Reservations required, sign-up online: www.lagunacanyon.org/activities. Willow Canyon Staging Area (20101 Laguna Canyon Road, just south of El Toro Road intersection). For questions, call (949) 497-8324.  Bring a flashlight, good walking shoes, water and dress in layers as the canyon can get cold at night. 

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