Octa's transportation blog

Plan Your Visit to OCTA’s Beautiful Open Space Preserves

Make 2022 the year to explore OCTA’s permanently protected open spaces with a docent-led hike or equestrian ride.

Hosted by OCTA, these free excursions provide special access to some of Orange County's natural landscapes.

To date, OCTA has acquired more than 1300 acres in Brea, Laguna Beach, Silverado Canyon, and Trabuco Canyon. A total of 12 restoration projects, resulting in 350 acres of restored open space, was funded throughout Orange County.

These properties are part of the OC Go (also known as Measure M) Freeway Environmental Mitigation Program, which allocates funds to acquire land and fund habitat restoration projects in exchange for streamlined environmental approvals for all OC Go freeway improvement projects.

The OCTA preserves are only open to the public during the docent-led hikes and equestrian rides so that the land’s wildlife and important plant life can be protected for generations to come.

All participants must sign a liability waiver and minors must be accompanied by a parent or guardian. All riders must provide their own horse. Space is limited.

View the 2022 hike and ride calendar and learn more about OCTA’s wilderness preserves here.