OC Parks April 2014 Calendar of Events

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

OC Parks APRIL 2014 calendar of events
April 3 – 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 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: Free  
Contact: (949) 923-2235
Special Instructions: Ages 15 and up. 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).

April 3, 11, 16 – Bonkers for Bunnies – Preschool Program
10 – 11 a.m.
Come learn all about bunnies and meet some up close! Class includes hands on learning and fun crafts!
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. Additional parents/siblings/family/friends must pay admission fee to enter zoo. Please note these Easter-themed classes fill quickly!

April 3, 10, 17 – 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, story telling, 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.

April 4 – 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. Ages 8 and up. 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.

April 4, 11, 18 – 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.  

April 5 – Free Kids’ Fishing Clinic
7 – 11 a.m.
OC Parks would like to invite you and your kids to a fun morning of fishing at Tri-City Regional Park! This Kids Fishing Clinic (for ages 15 and under) is designed to teach kids how to fish, while giving them an opportunity to catch a few from our lake.
Whether this is your first time fishing or you’re a regular, you will have fun trying to catch some fish. Instructors will be on hand to demonstrate, assist and answer any questions.
Please bring your own pole. If you do not have a fishing pole there will be some available for loan. The lake will be stocked with Rainbow Trout and there will be a two-fish limit. Prizes for tagged fish.
Location: Tri-City Regional Park. 2301 Kraemer Blvd, Placentia, CA 92870
Website: http://ocparks.com/parks/tri_city_park
Cost: Free Parking: Free
Contact: (714) 973 -3180
Special Instructions:  Registration is required at the OC Parks check-in table on the day of the event.
April 5, 12, 19, 26 – 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.

April 5 – Moulton Peak Geology and Natural History Hike   
9 a.m. – 12 p.m.
Join Laguna Canyon Foundation volunteer naturalists on this 4-mile Geology hike (600-ft. elevation gain) over steep and uneven terrain. Hike through the oak-filled woodland of Wood Canyon and continue to the park’s highest peak. We will pass by rock formations that tell of ancient floods, landslides and the building of a great shell-filled limestone reef. This hike is not for beginners! Bring water, hiking shoes (hiking poles suggested), snacks, and field guides of your choice and a sense of adventure!
Location: Aliso and Wood Canyons Wilderness Park. 28373 Alicia Parkway, Laguna Niguel, CA 92677
Cost: $2 donation per person 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. Meet at the entrance to Canyon View Park). For questions, call (949) 497-8324.

April 5, 6, 12, 13, 19, 20, 26, 27 – Redwood Grove Hike
9:30 – 11 a.m.
Join OC Parks' trained staff on 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 9:30 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.


April 5 – Adventure Day and 40th Anniversary Celebration 
10 a.m. – 3 p.m.
Caspers’ Park Rangers, Volunteers, and Staff invite you to a fun-filled day of nature hikes, guest speakers, exhibits, games, music, and the celebration of the 40th anniversary of Caspers Park at Adventure Day 2014. 
Location: Caspers Wilderness Park. 33401 Ortega Highway, San Juan Capistrano, CA 92675
Website: www.ocparks.com/caspers/
Contact: (949) 923-2210
Special Instructions: For more information, visit: http://ocparks.com/civicax/inc/blobfetch.aspx?BlobID=33929.   

April 5 – 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). 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
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.

April 5, 12, 19, 26 – Ranger Led Campfire Program
8 – 9 p.m.
Join us Saturday night 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. 

April 6 – Family Hike in the Canyon
8:30 – 11 a.m.
Enjoy a hike with your family in beautifully lush Wood Canyon, while exploring its wildlife with OC Parks Resource Specialist Rick Schaffer. This is an easy 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.

April 6 – 1st Sunday Restoration Program at Talbert Nature Preserve 
9 a.m. – 12 p.m.
Come join us for some R&R at Talbert Regional Park in Costa Mesa as we kick off the first community based Talbert Restoration & Revitalization Project. Learn about the native plants and wildlife of our Coastal zone. We will meet the 1st Sunday of each month 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. at the corner of 19th St. and Balboa Blvd. in Costa Mesa.
Location: Talbert Nature Preserve. 1298 Victoria Avenue, Costa Mesa, CA 92627
Cost: Free Parking: Free
Contact: (714) 376-7414
Special Instructions: This program will be cancelled if rainy/muddy conditions are present 24 hours prior or enrollment minimums are not met.

April 6 – Nature Center Open 
10 a.m. – 2 p.m.
The Nature Center is open the first Sunday of each month. Join a Park Ranger for a tour of the nature center and learn about local history, flora and fauna.
Location: Santiago Oaks Regional Park. 2145 N. Windes Drive, Orange, CA 92869
Cost: Free Parking: $5 per vehicle
Contact: (714) 973-6620

April 7 – Knitting in Nature 
1 – 3 p.m.
Come out and knit or crochet in nature at beautiful Aliso and Wood Canyons Wilderness Park. Whether you want to learn how to knit or have been knitting for years, come join in the stitching as we sit under the sycamores.  Help available to all knitters. Bring your own project or try your hand at the project of the month that is great for beginners (Please email leader for materials needed for the project of the month, amy@lagunacanyon.org).
Location: Aliso and Wood Canyons Wilderness Park. 28373 Alicia Parkway, Laguna Niguel, CA 92677
Cost: $2 donation per person 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 Pkwy (from southbound Aliso Creek Rd, turn right on Alicia, first right on Awma, left into parking lot). For questions, call (949) 497-8324.

April 8 – 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.

April 9 – 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
Cost: $2 donation per person 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. Meet at the entrance to Canyon View Park). For questions, call (949) 497-8324.

April 10 – 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: Free  
Contact: (949) 923-2235
Special Instructions: Ages 15 and up. Reservations required, sign-up online: www.lagunacanyon.org/activities. Not for beginners. Hiking poles suggested. Willow Canyon Staging Area (20101 Laguna Canyon Road, just south of El Toro Road intersection). For questions, call (949) 497-8324.

April 11 – 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
Cost: $2 donation per person 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. Meet at the entrance to Canyon View Park). For questions, call (949) 497-8324.

April 12 – 10th Annual Survive and Thrive Run/Walk Health & Safety Expo    
10 a.m. – 12 p.m.
The Orange County Board of Supervisors and OC Parks invite you to a tribute to all crime victims. The event will commemorate National Crime Victims’ Rights Week and the winning design for the Orange County Crime Victims’ Monument will be announced.

Program will include:

Community booths.
Speakers.
Orange County Crime Victims’ Monument design winner announced.
Dove release in conjunction with Crime Survivors.
Event and parking are free.
Register for the Crime Survivors 5K Run/Walk at www.surviveandthriverunwalk.org. The run/walk begins at 9 a.m. with the unveiling of the monument design winner immediately following.
Location: Mason Regional Park. 18712 University Drive, Irvine, CA 92612
Cost: Free Parking: Free
Contact: (949) 923-2220
Special Instructions: For more information, visit: http://surviveandthriverunwalk.org/. 

April 12 – 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.

April 12 – 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 but fast-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. Laguna Coast Wilderness Park, 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.

April 13 – The Mysterious World of O’Neill Regional Park
9 – 10:30 a.m.
Have you ever wondered, “Where are all the wild animals in the park?” Visit a Show and Share Exhibit located next to the O’Neill Park Nature Center and discover mysterious clues animals leave behind. Free fun crafts and games!
Location: O’Neill Regional Park. 30982 Trabuco Canyon Road, Trabuco Canyon, CA 92678
Cost: Free Parking: $5 per vehicle
Contact: (949) 923-2260 or (949) 923-2260
Special Instructions: All ages welcome. A 30-minute moderate nature walk will follow.

April 13 – 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. Program will be cancelled if inclement weather is present.

April 14 – Family Nature Walk 
10 a.m. – 12 p.m.
Join Resource Specialist Laura Cohen on an easy 1.5-mile walk to Barbara’s Lake as you play games and learn about the wildlife in the spring at Laguna Coast Wilderness Park.
Location: Laguna Coast Wilderness Park. 18751 Laguna Canyon Road, Laguna Beach, CA 92651
Cost: Free Parking: $3 per vehicle  
Contact: (949) 923-2235
Special Instructions: Ages 5 and up. 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. 

April 14 – Storytelling with Ed and Sam   
10 a.m. – 12 p.m., 1 – 3 p.m.
Orange County's rich beekeeping history can be traced all the way back to two men in Santiago Canyon in the late 1860s. Sam Shrewsbury and Joseph ‘Ed’ Pleasants were pioneer beekeepers living in tiny cabins along the creek at a time when grizzly bears still roamed the chaparral and condors perched high atop the peaks of the Santa Ana Mountains. 

Meander through the gardens of Arden and hear animated retellings of Sam and Ed's adventures. Receive a guided tour of the Helena Modjeska House, which includes Ed's original cabin. 

This program is presented by the Walking Stick Storytellers Guild in collaboration with OC Parks. 
Location: 25151 Serrano Road, Lake Forest, CA 92630-2534
Website: http://www.ocparks.com/modjeskahouse/
Contact: (949) 923–2230
Special Instructions: Space is limited, please call to register. Directions and map will be sent after registration.    

April 15 – 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 and reader. Elevation gain 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
Cost: $2 donation per person 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. Meet at the entrance to Canyon View Park). For questions, call (949) 497-8324.

April 17 – 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
Cost: $2 donation per person 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. Meet at the entrance to Canyon View Park). For questions, call (949) 497-8324.

April 18 – 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.

April 18 – Tot Walk
9 – 11 a.m.
Join Ranger Zak and Laguna Canyon Foundation volunteers and bring your young ones (babies to 3 years old) 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: For babies to 3 years old. Reservations required, sign-up online: www.lagunacanyon.org/activities. Aliso & Wood Canyons Wilderness Park, Ranger Headquarters, 28373 Alicia Pkwy (from southbound Aliso Creek Rd, turn right on Alicia, first right on Awma, left into parking lot). For questions, call (949) 497-8324.

April 19 – 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. 

April 19 – 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: 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 Pkwy (from southbound Aliso Creek Rd, turn right on Alicia, first right on Awma, left into parking lot). For questions, call (949) 497-8324.

April 19 – Introduction to Mountain Bike Riding     
8:30 – 10:30 a.m.
Learn mountain biking basics and trail etiquette on this 6.8-mile ride over steep and uneven terrain (800-ft. elevation gain) while enjoying canyon views. Please come prepared with a bike suitable for off-pavement riding, sturdy shoes, helmet, gloves, water and snack. Led by Laguna Canyon Foundation volunteer mountain bike trail assistants.
Location: Laguna Coast Wilderness Park. 18751 Laguna Canyon Road, Laguna Beach, CA 92651
Cost: $2 donation per person Parking: Free  
Contact: (949) 923-2235
Special Instructions: 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).

April 19 – Intermediate Mountain Bike Ride  
8:30 – 10:30 a.m.
Catch beautiful canyon views on this 10-mile ride over steep and uneven terrain (1,000-ft. elevation gain) with Laguna Canyon Foundation volunteer mountain bike trail assistants. Must have helmet, gloves, hydration; a snack is strongly suggested. Be prepared for varied weather out in the canyons.
Location: Laguna Coast Wilderness Park. 18751 Laguna Canyon Road, Laguna Beach, CA 92651
Cost: $2 donation per person Parking: Free  
Contact: (949) 923-2235
Special Instructions: Reservations required, sign-up online: www.lagunacanyon.org/activities. Not for beginners. This is for INTERMEDIATE riders with mountain biking experience. Ridge Park Staging Area (Newport Coast Drive to Ridge Park Rd. east to end; meet at the gate).

April 22 – Beginners 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
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. Wear walking or hiking shoes, hat, sunscreen, and bring water. 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.

April 24, 25, 26, 27 – American Pro Surfing Series 
Waiting period to be from 4/21/14 – 4/27/14. Contest estimated to run from 4/24/2014 through 4/27/2014
Location: Salt Creek Beach Park. 33333 S. Pacific Coast Hwy., Dana Point, CA 92629
Contact: (949) 496-5517
Parking: $1 an hour

April 24 – 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. Online reservations required, sign-up online: www.lagunacanyon.org/activities. Not for beginners. James Dilley Preserve (east side of Laguna Canyon Rd/SR-133, just north of 73 Toll Road). For questions, call (949) 497-8324.

April 26 – 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. 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.

April 26 – Earth Day at the Bay!
10 a.m. – 3 p.m.
Join us for our 24th annual Earth Day at the Bay celebration presented by the Newport Bay Conservancy in partnership with OC Parks. Learn how you can make Earth Day everday!

Activities include:
  • Environmental exhibitors
  • Live entertainment
  • Face painting
  • Childrens' scavenger hunt with prizes
  • Live animal demonstrations
  • Science discovery booths
  • Arts and Crafts
  • Opportunity drawings
  • Environmental films courtesy of the Newport Beach Film Festival
Food available for purchase from the Burnt Truck, Tamarindo and Front Porch Pops.
Location: Upper Newport Bay. 2301 University Drive, Newport Beach, CA 92660
Cost: Free Parking: Free
Contact: (949) 923-2290
Special Instructions: Visit www.newportbay.org for more information.

April 26 – The Night Skies at Caspers
7:30 – 9:30 p.m.
Come for a grand tour of the universe! Join Allan and other amateur astronomers as we look in the telescopes to see the wonders of the sky. Take a guided tour of the constellations and learn the myths and facts about the cosmos. Observe Jupiter, Mars and Saturn and deep sky objects 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 park at (949) 923-2210 for weather-sky updates or additional information.

April 27 – Birding Hike  
8 – 11 a.m.
Spot local native and 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) 497-8324
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.

April 27 – 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 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 Pkwy (from southbound Aliso Creek Rd, turn right on Alicia, first right on Awma, left into parking lot). For questions, call (949) 497-8324.

April 27 – 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 

April 30 – Down On the Farm – Preschool Program
10 – 11 a.m.
Come learn all about farm animals including chickens, pigs, goats, sheep 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. Additional parents/siblings/family/friends must pay admission fee to enter zoo. Please note spaces fill quickly for toddler classes.

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