Irvine: Vista, Meadow and Play loop

If you’re looking for a way to let the kids run free, this is an excellent loop trail. You’ll cover water, aviaries, overlooks, and woodland forest. Be mindful of ticks…but most of all have fun. Start from the parking lot and head down the steps. Don’t go all the way into the nature play area (yet), make a left onto the trail (you’ll see a trail map). Follow this only 20 yards or so and you’ll pass by a raptor sanctuary. Back on the trail, had another 20 yards or so til you reach a wildlife blind. Let the kids pretend they are actually quiet and still enough to allow wildlife to be observed (ha!) and move back along the trail until you reach a trail intersection. Follow to the left to take you down to the Valley Wall Trail. Once you reach the access lane, turn right and you’ll be out in the meadow. There’s another wildlife viewing blind on your right. After taking a moment follow that trail uphill to the gazebo (there’s a bench right in front of the trail to gaze out onto the meadow). Follow the vista loop trailback to the side entrance of the outdoor classroom. At this point good luck on getting your child to leave as there is so many fun things to enjoy here. If it’s too cold/hot or wet, head inside to the nature center. Again, good luck getting them to leave this absolute gem! No pets allowed on property. Be mindful of events prior to visiting which may cost $ or impede parking https://www.explorenature.org