The City of Irvine Open Space Preserve provides countless ways to connect with nature and enjoy outdoor adventures without traveling far, including hiking, mountain biking, equestrian programs and naturalist-led tours

Trails for hiking, mountain biking, and bird and wildlife spotting through this 5,200-plus acre expanse of the historic Irvine Ranch, which was officially designated as a Natural Landmark by the State of California and the United States Department of the Interior. Bring the dog, too; Quail Hill, one of the preserve’s four areas, is the only wilderness trail in the Natural Landmarks that allows dogs, as long as they remain leashed. Docents also regularly lead nature hikes, mountain biking lessons, and other activities, such as tai chi and animal tracking.

 

Bommer Canyon

Rich in both Irvine Ranch lore and nature’s wonders, Bommer Canyon beckons walkers, hikers and all other outdoor enthusiasts to stroll past ancient oak and sycamore groves and rough rock outcrops. Much like the City’s Quail Hill Loop Trail specific trails in this area are open daily for self-guided hikes from dawn to dusk; however, other areas within Bommer can only be accessed through guided programs and do require pre-registration. Monthly Wilderness Access Days are available to allow hikers and bikers the chance to explore the network of outstanding trails and views of the area.

 

Orchard Hills

This three-mile, multi-use trail features a double loop and skirts the edge of a working avocado orchard. The larger 3-mile outer loop is relatively strenuous, with a substantial elevation gain over a short distance in certain sections. The reward for those who conquer the trail is a breath-taking vista from Loma Ridge that consumes the coastal hills and most of Irvine. On a clear day, it is possible to see Camp Pendleton, Catalina and San Clemente Islands, the Palos Verdes Peninsula, and even the Hollywood sign in Los Angeles (with binoculars of course). The gently sloping, 1.2-mile, inner loop trail is perfect for beginners, families or anyone who wants a shorter stroll. The inner loop has enough elevation for great views of Irvine and the coast as well. The Orchard Hills trail is planned to eventually connect to a regional protected open space area encompassing Loma Ridge, Limestone Canyon and Agua Chinon Canyon. This trail is currently open to guided access, because of adjacent agricultural and development activity, however programs are very frequent and free.

 

Quail Hill

The 2.8-acre Quail Hill Trailhead provides a great location to connect to southern Irvine’s extensive trail network. The trailhead is located at the end of Sand Canyon Road and marks the beginning of the Quail Hill Loop Trail, an easy two-mile natural surface trail at the foot of Quail Hill that is open to the public from dawn to dusk. Irvine’s southern wilderness is also accessible via docent-led activities that begin at the trailhead. Quail Hill loop is the only wilderness trail in the Natural Landmarks that allows dogs – on leashes of course.

 

While visiting the Quail Hill Loop Trail, bring along your cell phone and experience Irvine’s self-guided cell phone audio tour. Just dial in to hear natural resource interpreters and researchers explain important features along the trail. The tour itself is free, but you will use your own cell service and minutes. Additionally, the tour can be listened to from any phone, anywhere, any time.