OC Parks December 2014 Calendar of Events

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Here are some highlights from the OC Parks December Calendar of events, if you are looking for hiking ideas or other outdoor events in the month of December, make sure to check out some of these great events!
OC Parks DECEMBER 2014 calendar of events

December 3 – Birds of Mason Regional Park
9 – 10:30 a.m.
Join us on one or both of these dates!  Led by an OC Parks volunteer and experienced birdwatcher, this is a beginner-friendly program about the birds of William R. Mason Regional Park. On an easy walk of 1/2 mile around Mason, we will view and discuss a variety of birds that use the park. We'll check for different types of ducks, geese, and grebes in the ponds. We’ll look and listen for songbirds on the trees and bushes. We may also spot shorebirds and hawks.
Location: Mason Regional Park. 18712 University Drive, Irvine, CA 92612
Cost: Free Parking: $3 per vehicle   
Contact: (949) 923-2220
Special Instructions: Water, sunscreen, a hat and comfortable shoes are recommended. Bring your binoculars to get a better view of the birds! Turn left at the stop sign after the entrance gate and park in Parking Lot B. We will meet at the picnic table near the Ranger Office by the park entrance. Rain will cancel event.

December 4 – 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
Parking: Free
Contact: (949) 497-8324
Special Instructions: Ages 15 and up. Reservations required, sign-up online: www.lagunacanyon.org/activities. Aliso & Wood Canyons Wilderness Park, Canyon View Staging Area (from southbound Aliso Creek Rd, turn right on Glenwood [turns into Pacific Park] and right on Canyon Vistas. For questions, call (949) 497-8324 M-F or (949) 923-2200 Sat/Sun.

December 5 – 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
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 M-F or (949) 923-2235 Sat/Sun.

December 5, 10 – Creatures in the Cold – Preschool Program 
10:15 – 11:15 a.m.
Learn all about animals that live in the cold, including reindeer, polar bears, penguins, and more! Class includes hands-on learning, fun 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.

December 5, 12, 19, 26 – Wild Tales
10:30 – 11:30 a.m.
Visit with Preserve and YMCA 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.  

December 5-7, 12-23 – Irvine Park Railroad’s 19th Annual Christmas Train
Times Vary
It’s the season, once again for Irvine Park Railroad’s annual Christmas Train. Come with family and friends and take this enchanting night ride through historic Irvine Regional Park to meet Santa Claus. The train will depart every 15 minutes from the brightly-lit train station and drop you off at Santa’s Village.
Christmas Train tickets may be purchased to ride the train at a specific date and time – get in line and board the train any time during the hour for which you purchase tickets. Tickets may be purchased online ONLY beginning November 1. Tickets may not be purchased in person. Visit http://www.irvineparkrailroad.com/ for more details and to purchase tickets.
Location: Irvine Regional Park. 1 Irvine Park Road, Orange, CA 92869 Website: www.ocparks.com/irvinepark/
Cost: Visit www.irvineparkrailroad.com.
Contact: (714) 997-3968


December 6, 20  – 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.

December 6, 13, 20, 27 – 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.

December 6 – Geology and Natural History Hike
9 – 11:30 a.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. 18751 Laguna Canyon Road, Laguna Beach, CA 92651
Parking: $3 per vehicle
Contact: (949) 923-2235
Special Instructions:  For ages 10 and up. 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 M-F or (949) 923-2235 Sat/Sun.

December 6, 20 – 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
Special Instructions: Participants must be at least 12 years old. Equipment is provided.

December 6, 13, 20, 27 – 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.

December 6 – Holiday Gifts for the Animals – Family Program  
10 a.m. – 12 p.m.
The fun family class is filled with activities adults and children can do together. Help us make “gifts” for the zoo animals (we call it enrichment). Enrichment items help keep the zoo animals active and healthy. You will learn about the various kinds of enrichment we give the animals, and create holiday-themed enrichment items that the zoo animals will receive at our Christmas event and throughout the holiday season (this may include wrapping boxes, painting “ornaments”, making popsicles and more! You’ll also get to meet some zoo animals up close!
Location: Orange County Zoo. 1 Irvine Park Road, Orange, CA 92869
Website: http://www.ocparks.com/oczoo/
Cost: $5 per family member Parking: $5 per vehicle
Contact: (714) 973-6846
Special Instructions: PHONE REGISTRATION REQUIRED. Call Marcy Crede-Booth, Education Coordinator at (714) 973-6846. For ages 4 years and older. Please respect the age restrictions and DO NOT bring younger siblings to class.

December 6 – Victorian Christmas 
11 a.m. – 3 p.m.
Festive Traditional Christmas entertainment, music and performances, children’s crafts, historical exhibits, handicraft vendors, tours through decorated historic buildings staffed by our docents, and visits with Santa.
Location: Heritage Hill Historical Park. 25151 Serrano Road, Lake Forest, CA 92630
Cost: $3 for children (3-12 years old, children under 3 are free), $4 adults (13 and older)
Parking: Free
Contact: (949) 923-2230

December 6 – Birds of Mason Regional Park
3 – 4:30 p.m.
Join us on one or both of these dates!  Led by an OC Parks volunteer and experienced birdwatcher, this is a beginner-friendly program about the birds of William R. Mason Regional Park. On an easy walk of 1/2 mile around Mason, we will view and discuss a variety of birds that use the park. We'll check for different types of ducks, geese, and grebes in the ponds. We’ll look and listen for songbirds on the trees and bushes. We may also spot shorebirds and hawks.
Location: Mason Regional Park. 18712 University Drive, Irvine, CA 92612
Cost: Free Parking: $5 per vehicle   
Contact: (949) 923-2220
Special Instructions: Water, sunscreen, a hat and comfortable shoes are recommended. Bring your binoculars to get a better view of the birds! Turn left at the stop sign after the entrance gate and park in Parking Lot B. We will meet at the picnic table near the Ranger Office by the park entrance. Rain will cancel event.

December 6, 13, 20, 27 – 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!

December 7, 14, 21, 28 – Ranger-Led 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.

December 7 – Sunday Fitness Hike  
8:30 – 11 a.m.
Enjoy a fresh, coastal breeze as you get your workout in the park on this strenuous fast-paced, 6.5-mile hike over steep and uneven terrain (1,100-ft elevation gain). Hike through lush Wood Canyon and up surrounding ridges with OC Parks Resource Specialist Rick Schaffer.
Location: Aliso and Wood Canyons Wilderness Park. 28373 Alicia Parkway, Laguna Niguel, CA 92677
Parking: Free
Contact: (949) 497-8324
Special Instructions: Ages 15 and up. Reservations required, sign-up online: www.lagunacanyon.org/activities. Aliso & Wood Canyons Wilderness Park, Canyon View Staging Area (from southbound Aliso Creek Rd, turn right on Glenwood [turns into Pacific Park] and right on Canyon Vistas. For questions, call (949) 497-8324 M-F or (949) 923-2200 Sat/Sun.

December 7 – Exploring Nature with a Camera 
2 – 4:30 p.m.
Explore nature in the  fall - using a digital camera.  Bring your camera and search for interesting shapes, organisms, lighting situations, and colors. Share your ideas with other nature enthusiasts!  Hike 2 miles over steep and uneven terrain (400-ft. elevation gain).
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. 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.

December 10 – Birding Walk
9 – 11 a.m.
Join OC Parks Volunteer Mike Clayton for a morning of birding at Laguna Niguel Regional Park. With its meandering streams and 44-acre lake, the park attracts a variety of birds, including waterfowl and shore birds. 
Location: Laguna Niguel Regional Park. 28241 La Paz Road, Laguna Niguel, CA 92677
Cost: Free Parking: $5 per vehicle 
Contact: (949) 923-2240
Special Instructions: Beginning and intermediate birders are welcome. Participants must be 10 years old and above and children must be accompanied by an adult. Program is free, meet at the shelter #3 parking lot inside the gate and to the right.

December 10 – 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
Parking: Free 
Contact: (949) 497-8324
Special Instructions: Ages 12 and up. Reservations required, sign-up online: www.lagunacanyon.org/activities. Aliso & Wood Canyons Wilderness Park, Canyon View Staging Area (from southbound Aliso Creek Rd, turn right on Glenwood [turns into Pacific Park] and right on Canyon Vistas. For questions, call (949) 497-8324 M-F or (949) 923-2200 Sat/Sun.

December 11 – 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
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 M-F or (949) 923-2235 Sat/Sun.

December 11, 18 – 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.

December 12 – Wood Canyon Discovery Hike 
9 a.m. – 12 p.m.
Explore beautiful Wood Canyon and discover its wildlife with Laguna Canyon Foundation volunteer naturalists on this moderate but steep, uneven and rocky, 5-mile hike (200-ft. elevation gain).
Location: Aliso and Wood Canyons Wilderness Park. 28373 Alicia Parkway, Laguna Niguel, CA 92677
Parking: Free  
Contact: (949) 497-8324
Special Instructions: Reservations required, sign-up online: www.lagunacanyon.org/activities. Aliso & Wood Canyons Wilderness Park, Canyon View Staging Area (from southbound Aliso Creek Rd, turn right on Glenwood [turns into Pacific Park] and right on Canyon Vistas. For questions, call (949) 497-8324 M-F or (949) 923-2200 Sat/Sun.

December 12 – Moonlight Stroll Night Hike   
5:30 – 7:30 p.m.
Explore the amazing nocturnal world at Santiago Oaks Regional Park under the wintery night sky. The Moonlight Stroll will feature a visit to the Nature Center, hot cocoa and cookies, and a Park Ranger guided hike to a scenic lookout for a panoramic view. Do not miss these opportunities to visit the parks at night. The hike is approximately 2 miles and is of moderate difficulty. This is an outdoor event so please be sure to dress warmly, wear sturdy walking shoes and bring a flashlight The final one will be at Peters Canyon Regional Park on Friday, January 9th.
Location: Santiago Oaks Regional Park. 2145 N. Windes Drive, Orange, CA 92869
Cost: Free Parking: Free
Contact: (714) 973-6620
Special Instructions: Recommended for ages 6 years and up. No dogs allowed. Space is limited, please call (714) 973-6620 or email santiagooaks@ocparks.com to register. This event will not be rescheduled if cancelled.

December 13 – 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.

December 13 – 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.  

December 13 – 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-mile hike (535-ft. elevation gain).
Location: Laguna Coast Wilderness Park. 18751 Laguna Canyon Road, Laguna Beach, CA 92651
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 M-F or (949) 923-2235 Sat/Sun.

December 13 – Christmas at the OC Zoo!   
10 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Join us for holiday fun at the OC Zoo! Activities include visits with Santa, story time with Mrs. Claus, holiday kids’ crafts, and face painting! Come see the zoo animals receive treat-filled "gifts" and treats hidden inside Christmas trees throughout the day!
Location: Orange County Zoo. 1 Irvine Park Road, Orange, CA 92869
Website: http://www.ocparks.com/oczoo/
Cost: $2 per person (ages 2 and under free) Parking: $5 per vehicle
Contact: (714) 973-6846
Special Instructions: Reservations are not needed. Activities are free with paid zoo admission.  

December 13, 14 – Candlelight Walk  
5:30 – 8:30 p.m.
Two enchanting evenings with luminaria-lit paths, historic buildings and trees aglow with Christmas lighting, strolls through restored historical buildings adorned in period décor and staffed by our docents, Victorian carolers, live entertainment in each building, storytellers, visits with Santa, refreshments.
Location: Heritage Hill Historical Park. 25151 Serrano Road, Lake Forest, CA 92630
Cost: $3 for children (3-12 years), $4 for adults  Parking: Free
Contact: (949) 923-2230

December 14 – A Walk in the Park
8:30 – 10:30 a.m.
Bring the family to view the landmark Aliso Creek restoration project and search for OC’s native wildlife on the Aliso Creek Trail East. This is a 2.5-mile, level terrain, leisurely hike (50-ft. elevation gain) through riparian (near water) and grassland habitats. Led by OC Parks Resource Specialist Rick Schaffer.
Location: Aliso and Wood Canyons Wilderness Park. 28373 Alicia Parkway, Laguna Niguel, CA 92677
Cost: Free Parking: $3 per vehicle 
Contact: (949) 497-8324
Special Instructions: Ages 7 and up. Reservations required, sign-up online: www.lagunacanyon.org/activities. Aliso & Wood Canyons Wilderness Park, Ranger Headquarters, 28373 Alicia Parkway (from southbound Aliso Creek Road, turn right on Alicia Parkway, first right on Awma Road, left into parking lot). For questions, call (949) 497-8324 M-F or (949) 923-2200 Sat/Sun.

December 14 – 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.

December 16 – Book Hike  
9 – 11 a.m.
Engage your brain along with your body on a 4-mile hike in beautiful Aliso & Wood Canyons while we share our favorite books. Come prepared to contribute a title or two and leave with the anticipation of some great new reads as well as a relaxed and exercised body. Led by a Laguna Canyon Foundation volunteer naturalist & reader. Elevation gain of 300 ft. on terrain that can be uneven and rocky. A hat, sunscreen, hiking shoes, water and snack are recommended.
Location: Aliso and Wood Canyons Wilderness Park. 28373 Alicia Parkway, Laguna Niguel, CA 92677
Parking: Free
Contact: (949) 497-8324
Special Instructions: Reservations required, sign-up online: www.lagunacanyon.org/activities. Aliso & Wood Canyons Wilderness Park, Canyon View Staging Area (from southbound Aliso Creek Rd, turn right on Glenwood [turns into Pacific Park] and right on Canyon Vistas. For questions, call (949) 497-8324 M-F or (949) 923-2200 Sat/Sun.

December 18 – 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
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 M-F or (949) 923-2235 Sat/Sun.

December 19 – 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
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.

December 19 – Tot Walk 
9 – 11 a.m.
Join Ranger Zak along with Laguna Canyon Foundation volunteers and bring your young ones (infant to age three) to explore Aliso's wild backyard. We will see bugs, animal tracks, plants, birds and have all kinds of outdoor fun!
Location: Aliso and Wood Canyons Wilderness Park. 28373 Alicia Parkway, Laguna Niguel, CA 92677
Cost: Free Parking: $3 per vehicle 
Contact: (949) 497-8324
Special Instructions: Reservations required, sign-up online: www.lagunacanyon.org/activities. Aliso & Wood Canyons Wilderness Park, Ranger Headquarters, 28373 Alicia Parkway (from southbound Aliso Creek Road, turn right on Alicia Parkway, first right on Awma Road, left into parking lot). For questions, call (949) 497-8324.

December 20 – 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 M-F or (949) 923-2235 Sat/Sun.

December 20 – Keep It Wild Volunteer Day 
8 – 11 a.m.
Come on out and help restore the wild lands we so enjoy! What better way to start a Saturday morning than to join Laguna Canyon Foundation and OC Parks staff in an invigorating project of non-native plant removal an/or planting native plants. Help us make a healthier environment for native wildlife and for ourselves.
Location: Aliso and Wood Canyons Wilderness Park. 28373 Alicia Parkway, Laguna Niguel, CA 92677
Cost: Free Parking: Free for Keep It Wild Volunteers 
Contact: (949) 497-8324
Special Instructions: Reservations required, sign-up online: www.lagunacanyon.org/activities. Aliso & Wood Canyons Wilderness Park, Ranger Headquarters, 28373 Alicia Parkway (from southbound Aliso Creek Road, turn right on Alicia Parkway, first right on Awma Road, left into parking lot). For questions, call (949) 497-8324 M-F or (949) 923-2200 Sat/Sun.

December 20 – Family Hike
3 – 5 p.m.
Come and enjoy an easy, 3-mile family hike over moderate but uneven terrain (100-ft. elevation gain). Starting at Nix Nature Center we will hike one of the most diverse areas of the park under a canopy of oaks to Barbara’s Lake and back. Hike is led by Laguna Canyon Foundation volunteers. 
Location: Laguna Coast Wilderness Park. 18751 Laguna Canyon Road, Laguna Beach, CA 92651
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 M-F or (949) 923-2235 Sat/Sun.

December 20 – Star Party 
5 – 7 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 the marvels of the sky. Take a guided tour of the 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 (good weather). Call the park at (949) 923-2210 for weather/sky updates or additional information. 

December 21 – Birding Walk 
8 – 11 a.m.
Spot native and winter resident birds, with Laguna Canyon Foundation volunteer naturalists on this moderate 2-mile, level hike over uneven terrain through one of the most diverse plant communities in the United States.
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 M-F or (949) 923-2235 Sat/Sun.

December 21 – Restoration Day
8:30 – 11:30 a.m.
Want to enjoy the outdoors and help take car of park ecosystems? Join us for Restoration Days at Peters Canyon Regional Park every third Sunday from 8:30 to 11:30 a.m.
Location: Peters Canyon Regional Park. 8548 E. Canyon View Ave., Orange, CA 92869
Website: http://ocparks.com/peterscanyon/
Cost: Free
Contact: (714) 973-6611
Special Instructions: Please call to register at (714) 973-6611 or email us at peterscanyon@ocparks.com. Recommended to bring water and snacks, have sunscreen, and wear pants, long sleep shirts and boots.  

December 21 – Family Hike in the Canyon 
8:30 – 11 a.m.
Enjoy a hike with your family in the beautifully lush Wood Canyon, while exploring its wildlife with OC Parks Resource Specialist Rick Schaffer. This is a moderate 2-mile hike (300-ft elevation gain) over uneven and rocky terrain.
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 7 and up. Reservations required, sign-up online: www.lagunacanyon.org/activities. Aliso & Wood Canyons Wilderness Park, Canyon View Staging Area (from southbound Aliso Creek Rd, turn right on Glenwood [turns into Pacific Park] and right on Canyon Vistas. For questions, call (949) 497-8324 M-F or (949) 923-2200 Sat/Sun.

December 21 – 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
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.

December 21 – Family Science Sunday: Winter Solstice 
10 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Nature’s Harvest - Learn all about seeds, nuts, acorns and the animals that love them. 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
Parking: Free
Contact: (949) 923-2290
Special Instructions: Recommended for ages 3 to 12.

December 23 – 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 a 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
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.

December 26 – Winter Solstice Week  
2 – 4:30 p.m.
The winter solstice is the shortest day of the year. Celebrate the lengthening of the days with a slow 2.0-mile hike over sometimes steep and uneven terrain (400-ft. elevation gain) on the week of the solstice. Take a few minutes to meditate on the ridge and at the end of the hike. Bring water, good hiking shoes and dress in layers as the canyon can get cool in the evening.
Location: Laguna Coast Wilderness Park. 18751 Laguna Canyon Road, Laguna Beach, CA 92651
Parking: $3 per vehicle
Contact: (949) 923-2235
Special Instructions:  Ages 16 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.

December 27  – Ho Ho Happy New Year Night Hike   
5:30– 7:30 p.m.
Come see Carbon 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 Ho Ho Happy New Year Night Hike will feature many fun activities, including: 
• A visit to the Nature Center
• A live animal presentation
• Hot cocoa and cookies
• A hike through the wilderness area (approx. 2 miles round trip)
This is an outdoor event. Please dress warmly, wear good walking shoes and bring a flashlight. (No pets please)
Location: Carbon Canyon Regional Park. 4442 Carbon Canyon Road, Brea, CA 92823
Website: http://www.ocparks.com/carboncanyon/
Cost: Free Parking: Free after 5:30 p.m.
Contact: (714) 973-3160
Special Instructions: Space is limited, please call to register: (714) 973-3160 or email carboncanyon@ocparks.com. Save the Dates: The third and final night hike at Carbon Canyon Regional Park will be Saturday, January 31st, 2015.

December 28 – 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 

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