The Irvine Ranch Natural Landmarks is a unique biodiversity hotspot with five main plant communities: coastal sage scrub, chaparral, riparian, Southern oak woodland and coastal grassland. Within each of these communities are a variety of native shrubs, wildflowers and trees – the largest plants on the planet – that provide shelter and food for local wildlife. Native trees such as coast live oaks, Western sycamores and arroyo willows are vitally important to the Landmarks’ ecosystem as a whole. Many of these tree species stand tall after decades of growth, and can be seen throughout nature preserves and wilderness parks on the Landmarks.
Trails in Bommer Canyon are open daily from dawn to dusk, giving hikers and mountain bikers the ability to connect with the outdoors on their own time, at their own pace. Guided programs also offer visitors a chance to learn about the expansive open space from highly trained Irvine Ranch Conservancy staff and volunteers, who lead interpretive and fitness-focused hikes and bike rides on behalf of the City of Irvine. For more information on how to explore Bommer Canyon, click here. Visitors to Limestone can travel through the lush canyon’s thick oak woodlands during guided hiking, mountain biking and equestrian activities. Click here to find an upcoming guided program in Limestone Canyon that interests you!
Western sycamores (Platanus racemosa) are common trees in riparian woodland habitats, and can be found in Bommer Canyon, Limestone Canyon and the City of Newport Beach’s Buck Gully Reserve. Sycamore trees can be identified by their light bark and broad leaves, which change color in the fall and provide Orange County with its best display of autumn colors. Western sycamores have a tendency to grow taller and spread farther than most trees, and are found in the bottom of canyons near creek beds and bodies of water. This is why Buck Gully is a prime area for sycamores, with a watershed that spans roughly 1,200 acres and includes portions of Newport Coast and the San Joaquin foothills. Buck Gully is also home to wispy arroyo willows (Salix lasiolepis), which can be identified by their elongated, narrow leaves. Trail enthusiasts can enjoy Buck Gully’s ample greenery and tranquil stream while spotting the many bird species nested within sycamore and willow trees during daily self-guided access, as well as scheduled docent-led activities. Click here for more information on hiking and mountain biking in Buck Gully.
The native coast live oaks, Western sycamores and arroyo willows are valuable, important resources to both the animals in the Landmarks and humans who enjoy the open space's beauty and wonder. While taking in these grand sights during your next outdoor adventure, also consider giving back to the land by volunteering at a stewardship program on the Landmarks. Volunteers are always needed to help weed, water and care for the native habitat that helps local wildlife thrive. Browse a list of all upcoming stewardship opportunities on the Landmarks here. To learn more about self-guided access and guided programs on the Landmarks, click the links above. All guided activities are free and open to the public with required pre-registration, and minors must be accompanied by a parent or adult guardian. For all upcoming opportunities to connect with the outdoors, go to LetsGoOutside.org/activities.