Summer Nights on the Irvine Ranch Natural Landmarks (Hiking Ideas)

We thought that some of our readers might enjoy these outdoor recreation opportunities. The picture is provided by the Irvine Ranch Conservancy's press release and was taken at Orchard Hills.

Summer Nights on the Irvine Ranch Natural Landmarks

Explore Orchard Hills and Black Star Canyon during a series of evening and night hikes

 ORANGE COUNTY, Calif. (June 27, 2016) – Irvine Ranch Natural Landmarks invites the public to explore the City of Irvine’s Orchard Hills and OC Parks’ Black Star Canyon Wilderness Park during evening, twilight, and nighttime guided hikes. The programs are free with registration and welcome nature lovers to enjoy the Landmarks during summer nights.  

Orchard Hills Evening Hikes at Orchard Hills is a reoccurring program that offers nature lovers multiple opportunities per week to avoid the heat and enjoy sweeping views of Irvine and the Pacific coastline. Orchard Hills is home to a three-mile trail that features a double loop. The evening hikes travel along the outer loop and include areas with substantial elevation gain. Evenings are the perfect time to embark on this moderately paced guided hike, which skirts a working avocado orchard and leads to a panoramic vista from Loma Ridge. The program is suitable for hikers ages 12 and over. All minors must be accompanied by a parent or adult guardian. Water and sturdy shoes advised. Click here for a list of all programs.  

Twilight Hikes in Orchard Hills welcome trekkers to enjoy the trail before and after sunset. The leisurely paced hike follows the same route as the Evening Hike, offering visitors expansive views of the Irvine Open Space and an opportunity to connect with the land. The hike begins at the Orchard Hills Staging Area on various Tuesdays at 6:30 p.m., and circles back at roughly 8:30 p.m. Sturdy shoes and water are advised.  

Black Star Canyon Twilight Trek on The Mesa takes place in scenic Black Star Canyon Friday evenings, from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. This 2.5-mile loop trail will reveal the sights, sounds, and smells of the canyon as dusk turns to nightfall. This mild hike also offers time to enjoy scenic views of the lands and the endless evening sky. Ideal for hikers age ten and over; comfortable shoes and water advised. On Sunday, July 31, explore Black Star Canyon under the stars during  

Starry, Starry Night. Spaces are filling up quickly for this popular program, which averages 2.5 miles roundtrip and travels at a mild pace. Nature lovers 6 years of age and older are welcome to enjoy this easy outing that includes lots of stops to name constellations visible in the sky. For more information on all public programs available, visit www.letsgooutside.org.