The city of Irvine was designed with conservation in mind. Some 16,000 acres of preserved natural habitats and wildlands offer wide open spaces, hiking trails, and bikeways for visitors to enjoy, while public parks and green spaces dot business complexes and residential areas. This year, the Trust of Public Land ranked Irvine’s open space and parks the best in Southern California, and the 10th best in the United States.
With about a third of the city designated for outdoor recreation, its residents naturally tend to have an active streak, locals say. Join them, perhaps after a day of eating, to work it off in the great outdoors.
Irvine Open Space Preserve
The scenic Bommer Canyon, part of the Irvine Open Space Preserve, is ideal for leisurely hikes and nature walks. Courtesy of Destination Irvine
Hit the 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. LetsGoOutside.org
Mountains to Sea Trail
Hiking enthusiasts can take on this 22-mile trail through Orange County, which stretches from Weir Canyon, on the northern edge of Irvine Ranch, south towards the California coast, ending at Upper Newport Bay. Easily accessible by foot or bike, the trek promises a stunning overview of the region’s diverse landscapes and wildlife.San Joaquin Marsh and Wildlife Sanctuary
Home to over 200 species of birds, the San Joaquin Marsh is a birdwatcher's paradise. Eric Lindberg
This wildlife sanctuary is a true hidden gem. The San Joaquin Marsh spans more than 300 acres of coastal freshwater wetlands, over half of which has been restored, making it one of the largest in Southern California. Visitors can stroll through 12 miles of trails, flanked by blue water and vibrant patches of green. It’s also a birdwatcher’s delight, home to over 200 different species that soar overhead or swoop down to skim the still waters. No vehicles, bikes, or pets are allowed, so take the opportunity to commune with nature in undisturbed peace.
Biking Trails
Mountain bikers can enjoy miles of off-road trails. Courtesy of Destination Irvine
With over 300 miles of on-road and over 60 miles of off-road bikeways, including trails that wind through scenic expanses of the Irvine Open Space Preserve, Irvine is a fantastic biking city. In fact, it was the first city in Orange County to be named a Bicycle Friendly Community by the League of American Bicyclists, in 2009.
Hungry? Here’s where to eat in Irvine.
