ORANGE, Calif.—With 3.3 miles of traversable terrain and five interweaving trails, the Orange County Parks department welcomed the opening of the Saddleback Wilderness hiking trail system last month located within the protected wildlands of the Irvine Ranch Open Space.

The newly-developed trails—some with 360-degree views from the mountains to the Pacific Ocean—welcome hikers, bikers, and equestrians.

“Nearly all the routes feature scenic vistas,” Orange County Parks Operations Manager John Gump told The Epoch Times.

A flower blossums in the Saddleback Wilderness in Orange, Calif., on May 4, 2023. (John Fredricks/The Epoch Times)

Before the trails’ opening, biological surveys were conducted to identify rare and protected plants and animals.

“This data allowed OC Parks to make informed decisions on which areas to avoid . . . to protect sensitive natural resources,” Gump said.

Outdoor enthusiasts must register in advance to visit the trails due to limited parking.

Guided access in small groups with a flora and fauna specialist is scheduled for May 10 from 9 a.m. to 11:30 a.m.

A bird flies over the Saddleback Wilderness in Orange, Calif., on May 4, 2023. (John Fredricks/The Epoch Times)

“Participants are encouraged to come prepared with plenty of water and wear sturdy, closed-toe shoes, sunscreen, and a hat,” Gump said.

OC Parks also warns that the area is home to mountain lions, rattlesnakes, and temperate weather conditions that can lead to unscheduled closures.

“Our great OC Parks department and professionals in OC Community Resources envisioned this great project and worked their magic to make it happen,” Orange County Supervisor Don Wagner told The Epoch Times. “These trails introduce everyone to the natural beauty of our county [and] the views from the trails are stunning.”

The trail system is located at 3066 Santiago Canyon Rd., in Orange.

Trail map of the Saddleback Wilderness. (Courtesy of Orange County Parks)