Do you know about “The Hidden OC”? It’s an area comprised of three unique communities in the Canyons; Trabuco, Silverado and Modjeska Canyons. Serving as the backdrop is the Cleveland National Forest. Encompassing 460,000 acres, it is the southernmost national forest in California and is popular with outdoor enthusiasts for its many hiking and mountain bike trails.
Situated at the base of the forest is Silverado Canyon. The town of Silverado was founded in 1878 as a silver mining town and remnants of mining operations are still scattered throughout the area.
The annual Silverado Country Fair & Folk Festival is a popular event each October bringing community together while celebrating Old West traditions and culture. Live music, tasty western fare, handmade arts & crafts and lively Wild West reenactments make this a popular fall festival for miles around.
Modjeska Canyon is a tight knit, suburban community named after the 19th century Polish stage actress Helen Modjeska who settled in the canyon in the late 19th century. Her home, now named Arden: Helen Modjeska Historic House and Gardens, is a National Historic Landmark and is open for tours a few times a month.
Trabuco Canyon is located just north of the town of Rancho Santa Margarita and, like its fellow canyon towns, is also a close-knit community. The Trabuco General Store has been a local gathering spot for over 75 years, hosting neighborhood fundraisers, chili cook-offs and Friday night summer concerts.
Quiet, rural living with close proximity to city life is what draws people to this beautiful part of Orange County. Residents here embrace a strong sense of community, love of nature and pride of ownership.
