Over 15 miles of trails for hikers, mountain bikers and horseback riders at Limestone-Whiting Wilderness Park attract visitors from all over the county. The plan for the Irvine Ranch open space system is to link open lands through a series of trails that may eventually make it possible for residents to hike or mountain bike from the inland canyons to the Pacific Ocean.

       

Maintaining and preserving Orange County’s precious resources is a team effort. Below are seven basic safety and etiquette tips to follow when enjoying parks and wilderness areas on the Irvine Ranch.

Use park entrances. Always enter a park at the designated area to prevent damage to native plants and streams.

Stay on the trails.It doesn’t take much off-trail activity to beat down vegetation, whether you are traveling via foot, mountain bike or horse. Also avoid traveling on sandstone rock outcroppings to prevent damage to special plants — or yourself. Most hiking injuries occur when people go off-trail.

Appreciate wildlife. Honor the environment by traveling quietly and becoming aware of your surroundings. Wild animals are unpredictable, so for their safety and yours, keep your distance.

Leave dogs at home. Unfortunately, the scent of dogs disturbs deer and other wildlife. Roaming pets also can pick up harmful foxtails, ticks or fleas, which can carry disease.

Leave it as you see it. Removing anything from a park or open space can weaken the entire eco-system of thriving plants and wildlife. Also, please do not leave litter behind.

Respect closed areas. These areas are closed for your safety and the protection of sensitive plant and animal species. Some open space is not open to the public during certain parts of the year. Stay on clearly marked trails.

Be alert. Awareness is the key to preventing accidents. Look before you put a foot or hand down and, when possible, use the buddy system to minimize dangers.

Pg. 1: From the Canyons ... to the Coast
Pg. 2: Irvine Ranch Map
Pg. 3: Outdoor Safety and Etiquette
Pg. 4: Managing Our Wildlands
Pg. 5: Planning for the Future

Planning Ahead July 2000
-- Pg. 3 of 5 --