Discovery Hike

Explore Aliso and Wood Canyons Wilderness Park with OC Parks and Laguna Canyon Foundation Volunteers, where you might see deer, bobcats, and hawks. Learn about acorn woodpeckers – the hippies of the bird world – and the wonderful ways of woodrats, as well as the peculiar nature of certain plants. Enjoy wildlife sounds, smells, and sights on this moderately-paced 5-mile hike on rocky terrain with less than 500 feet in elevation gain. 

Age: 16 or older. Participants under 18 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian.  

Location: Canyon View Staging Area, Aliso & Wood Canyons Wilderness Park. From Pacific Park/Canyon Vistas intersection, go northwest on Canyon Vistas. We will meet on the paved sidewalk easement leading toward Wood Canyon Trail. 

Parking: Free neighborhood parking. Park legally (note street signs) on or near Canyon Vistas, preferably between Coastal Oak and Madia (22144 region of Canyon Vistas). Parking is limited; carpooling is encouraged. 

Difficulty Rating: 3/5  

Materials: Participants must bring water, closed-toed shoes, and sun protection. Hiking poles are recommended. 

Safety precautions and protocols: 

• Advanced registration required. Every individual, including children, must be registered. 
• Group sizes are minimized for safety purposes. For group registrations or questions please email volunteer@lagunacanyon.org 
• Participants must individually sign a waiver at the beginning of the program. For participants under 18, a parent or guardian must sign the waiver. 
• To protect all employees, volunteers, and participants, please do not attend if you are not feeling well, have symptoms of illness or have been in contact with someone who was ill. 
• If you register and are no longer able to attend, please cancel your registration as soon as possible to allow others the chance to register. 

Contact volunteer@lagunacanyon.org with any questions. 

Weather, including high temperatures and wet or muddy trail conditions, may lead to cancellation of this event.