View of Chaparral Park, Irvine Open Space
Hummingbird in the Irvine Open Space
Text and photography copyright 2011 by David W. Lockeretz, all rights reserved. Information and opinions provided are kept current to the best of the author’s ability. All readers hike at their own risk, and should be aware of the possible dangers of hiking, walking and other outdoor activities. The author does not take any responsibility for injuries sustained during hikes or walks on the routes described here. Check the informational links provided for up to date trail condition information.
Irvine Open Space: San Rufino to Chaparral Park
- Location: Irvine, on the corner of Via Novella and San Rufino Drive. From the 405 freeway, take the Culver Drive exit. Go right and in 1.4 miles, turn left on Campus Drive. Go 0.4 miles and turn right on Turtle Rock Drive. Go 0.2 miles and turn left on Amalfi Drive, then a quick right on Via Novella. Park at the end of Via Novella where it meets San Rufino Drive.
- Agency: City of Irvine
- Distance: 1.4 miles
- Elevation gain: 350 feet
- Difficulty Rating: PG
- Suggested time: 1 hour
- Best season: Year-round
- USGS topo map: Newport Beach
- More information: here
- Rating: 3
Many trails, both paved and dirt, snake through Irvine, providing UCI students, families, commuters and other people in the area with easy and convenient options for getting exercise in nature. The short route described here provides a quick workout with a nearly 360 degree view that includes the San Gabriels, Catalina Island, Old Saddleback and much more.
From the intersection of San Rufino and Via Novella, look for a trail leading uphill, across a concrete drainage ditch. The trail heads uphill steeply through a field that is bright green after recent rains. You curve to the right, continuing your ascent. Several trails branch off to either side, but this route stays straight, soon arriving at a ridge. The trail ascends to a summit, dips slightly and then reaches another summit. Here, you get a good view of virtually all of Orange County.
At this point, you can return by the same route, or extend your hike by carefully descending the steep trail in front of you to Chaparral Park below (you will see a paved walkway leading to some stairs). There are also plenty of other trails in the Irvine Open Space to check out if you liked this one.
