Connect with nature along the edge of a working avocado orchard. Join us on Thursday, February 25 at 9 a.m. for a leisurely three-mile hike on the Orchard Hills Loop Trail. This new multi-use trail features a double loop and contains several steep climbs and descents. Hikers will enjoy sweeping hilltop views of Orange County, the shade from nearby avocado groves and possibly some early wildflowers. This area is also known to attract wildlife such as hawks, song birds, mule deer, coyotes and bobcats.

The gently sloping, 1.2-mile, inner loop trail is perfect for beginners, families or anyone who wants a short stroll. It features enough elevation for great views of Irvine and the coast. 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 area is currently only open to guided access because of adjacent agricultural and development activity; however, programs are frequent and free.

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Bobcats are occasionally seen along the trails of the Irvine Ranch Natural Landmarks, in our county parks and in the more rural parts of the county where they live, breed and raise several offspring each year. Once the kittens get through their "terrible twos" - a period of their lives when they are still learning to hunt successfully and fend for themselves after leaving the care of their mother - they must also learn to avoid their greatest threat: humans, and in particular, automobiles.

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