Inspired by one of my riding mates, I've been taking part in several of the docent-led rides on the Irvine Ranch Reserve. The rides are spectacular, covering less traveled trammeled trails through some of the most pristine wilderness in the county. The IRLR offers at least one ride per week, beginning and ending in their staging areas which are spread throughout Irvine Ranch. Each ride is led by a nice group of docents. The pace is good, the trails are fun and the scenery is stunning. The other added bonus - less dust, ruts and trail wear - these trails don't see nearly the traffic of the "major" mountain biking areas in the county.Yesterday's ride began in Agua Chinon Wash and climbed to Limestone Canyon. There was a fun bit of single track that paralleled Santiago Canyon and then a long climb to the ridge line above Limestone and then a fun rolling downhill out of Agua Chinon. The ride was listed as advanced, but mostly for the climbs. The downhills were non-technical, but fun. Sure, fire road climbing grows old after a while but the scenic payoffs seemed worth the pain. No trip to Limestone is complete without a view of "The Sinks" and we viewed the eroded canyon from both perspectives. The ridge above Limestone afforded views of Saddleback and Newport Coast. The rolling landscape of the canyons still clings to spring colors, Yuccas, Lupins, Irises were in brilliant bloom. Many thanks to Roger and Chris for leading another cool ride. I'll be back.
Check out the IRLR website for ride times and sign up info.
