NOS Mission

Nevada Outdoor School inspires exploration of the natural world, responsible stewardship of our habitat and dedication to community.
This is the spot for us to share stories, fun ideas or general musings. When you aren't in here, we hope to see you out there!







Thursday, March 14, 2024

What's New At NOS- February 2024

February is consistently delightful, and this year proved to be no different! We marked Valentine's Day with a Romantic Night Hike and a captivating painting event. Additionally, we celebrated the rare occurrence of a leap year, concluded the final session of Science in Nature, witnessed 15 participants successfully pass Hunter Safety, and achieved Tread Lightly! training certification for all our AmeriCorps members, among other accomplishments. Explore further details of our February activities below in February's What's New at NOS!


To start off the month our Elko AmeriCorps members picked up their Young Naturalist Club: Science in Nature. This lesson we ventured into Sound! In true Nevada Winter/ Spring fashion, we needed to move inside the classroom due to the weather. Despite the location move students were able to study how they could use their senses to hear different sounds, play games to understand how sound travels, and see how sound moves with the help of a harmonica made from popsicle sticks!


Photo Caption: Students listen to conch shell with Noah D.


Even though it was cold outside 46 participants warmed up with us at the Winnemucca Rec Center for a community workshop on how to crochet! Participants learned how to make a slip knot, start a chain, and a single crochet stitch. AmeriCorps member Toni shared information on where to find patterns and what basic tools are needed for this craft.


Photo caption: AmeriCorps member Toni demonstrating how to crochet to other AmeriCorps members. 


On February 7th the Winnemucca members Noah, Sedric, and William went to the Healthy Habits walk at the Splash Pad behind the Winnemucca Boys and Girls Club. There was a small turnout of 1 family but the AmeriCorps members were able to make it enjoyable by showing the children workouts and having them join in. They finished the walk pretty quickly but to make up for the extra time they had the kids use the monkey bars on the play equipment. The weather was a little overcast and a little windy.

On February 9th, K-2 students met Elko  NOS Members Kaneisha and Noah at Angel Park for a fun lesson about kinetic and potential energy! Participants were shown examples of kinetic and potential energy through multiple ways that can be experienced just by playing outside. During this lesson frisbees, paper airplanes, and catapults were all shown to have potential and kinetic energy! Participants were anywhere between Kindergarten and 5th grade.


Photo Caption: Students Exploring Kinetic and Potential Energy by Rolling Down a Hill.


As the community geared up to celebrate their love with the special people in their lives, Nevada Outdoor School and the California Trail Center partnered together to host a romantic night hike on February 9th at CTIC! 10 people showed up to participate in a self-lead hike, standing around a nice hot fire, gourmet s’mores, a photobooth, and fun trivia. As the night progressed, the clouds started to clear, creating pockets perfect for stargazing! Evie, the California Trail Center’s telescope expert, was able to roll out one of the museum’s high-powered telescopes to allow event-goers to peer through the scope to catch a glimpse of the planet Jupiter!


Photo Caption: NOS Romantic Night Hike Welcome and S'mores Booth.


On February 14th, Valentine’s Day, the community in Winnemucca was offered the opportunity to join NOS at the rec center near Vesco Park for a glass painting event celebrating Valentine's Day. NOS members Sedric and Noah provided glasses and paints for participants and gave participants tips for painting their designs, instructions were also provided for curing the designs at home if they wanted their glass to be both decorative and functional. 6 participants came to the event and all had fun getting creative and painting their own unique designs, the 2 children who participated even got to do an extra painting on a small canvas as well. The event was a success, as the whole group of participants who came and the members leading the event enjoyed getting to paint their own decorative glasses and socialize while celebrating Valentine’s Day.
Photo Caption: Sedric and participants painting glasses for Valentine’s Day.


February 16th was the last Young Naturalist Club: Science in Nature. For the final lesson, we reviewed what we learned in the previous weeks; Botany, Sound, Potential and Kinetic Energy. This week we really focused on Kinetic Energy as we showed the kids how to reverse Potential Energy to Kinetic Energy, by heat transfer. For our final lesson, the research resulted in making homemade ice cream! Noah and I set out to make ice cream to show how kinetic energy can also turn into potential energy. This was a super fun experiment to do with the kids. K-2 we tried putting the ice cream in a bucket and rolling it down the hill, they used a lot of potential and kinetic energy for this session as they had to walk back and forth up the hill! For 3-5 as they are older kids we let them do the shaking of their own ice cream bag. Overall I feel this lesson was a success as the kids had tons of fun making Telephones, Planting their own bean plant and finally making ice cream and then getting to eat their creation!


Photo Caption: Kaneisha and students work on the Plant Life Cycle worksheet.


It is always an adventure when staff members Meghan and Jacklyn teach hunter safety! On February 17th, 15 students and 4 parents attended Hunter Safety Education in Winnemucca. Each class that is taught is 8 hours long with a working lunch. During this class students are required to complete a workbook or an online course before coming to class. While in class we go over the following: an introduction to hunter education, knowing your firearm, basic shooting skills, basic hunting skills, primitive hunting equipment and techniques, being a safe, responsible, and ethical hunter, preparation and survival skills, and wildlife conservation. Not only do we review the hunter safety handbook but we practice getting in and out of a mock vehicle and boat safely with a firearm, crossing a fence with a firearm and practice knowing our range of fire when walking in a hunting party. And of course, we play trivia as a review! We really enjoy these classes and look forward to our next one in Elko on April 5th!


Photo Caption: Hunter safety instructor Meghan and student going over deer herd conservation.


Despite the snowy weather on Wednesday, February 21st, Nevada Outdoor School AmeriCorps members were able to receive their Tread Lightly! Training. Tread Lightly! is also a nonprofit organization dedicated to promoting responsible outdoor motorized and non-motorized recreation through ethics education and stewardship initiatives. The 6-hour training was led by Meghan Sturgell, our master Tread Trainer. This training is also offered to members of the community for free! The core principles of Tread Lightly! revolve around responsible recreation, including practices such as staying on designated trails, respecting wildlife and their habitats, properly disposing of waste, and being considerate of other outdoor users. By raising awareness and providing educational resources, Tread Lightly! aims to preserve outdoor spaces for future generations to enjoy.


Photo Caption: NOS AmeriCorps members and Meghan S. with their certificates of completion.



The Sage stem fair was a very successful way to reach the kiddos! In attendance were Leanna, Noah, and myself (Kindra). The kids were each given a little passport and they had to go up to each booth and get a stamp; after they got every stamp they got a prize! We had our elk trunk setup and the kids could test out elk vision, and feel the pelt. They were most interested in the stickers and pencils that I was handing out, but they really enjoyed our elk vision glasses. In total, we spoke to 158 people about NOS, and our booth! All in all, it was a great outreach event!



Photo Caption: NOS AmeriCorps members at the Sage STEM and Health Fair.



The Bookworm Trail Trek was held at Southfork Meadows on a sunny and warm day. This was a partnership between Elko BLM, State Parks, and MyBrary. It was about a mile hike where there were trivia questions set up along the hike for kids. The kids really enjoyed this aspect of the hike. The hike also entailed 2 stories being read by MyBrary Members. The kids were super engaged in the books. There was also a station for kids and adults alike to color bookmarks. After the bookmark station, there were s'mores, and rocks for the kids to color. The community really enjoyed the event.



Photo Caption: Participants listening to a story from the MyBrary members.



On February 24, AmeriCorps members Noah C, Sedric Z, And William N hosted a hot spring adventure day allowing community members to get outside and explore a new place in Nevada. They had a pretty good turnout with 6 people. Four of them rode with the members in the van while the other two drove there themselves. Once they arrived they did introductions and talked about some hot springs ethics. A few of the participants didn't really want to get into the water so they looked around the area and hiked down the road and back exploring while the rest enjoyed the hot springs. Overall it was a great event allowing people to get outside and see something new.



Photo caption: Participants at the opening of the Thousand Creek Gorge.



On Saturday, February 24th, Nevada Outdoor School along with the California Trail Center, Travel Nevada, and the Elko County Visitors Authority welcomed travelers from all over the world to Elko for the day. The event was hosted at the Trail Center where Macy Rohr and Paul Gregory led a Dutch Oven Cooking Workshop. After the workshop, participants were led on a short interpretive hike along the trail systems. Participants learned about native plants in the area as well as some local wildlife. Lunch was some delicious dutch oven chili, an apple dump cake, and freshly churned vanilla ice cream! Lastly, the participants explored all that the museum has to offer before departing for the rest of their tour through Nevada.



Photo Caption: Go West Summit Tour participants at the lookout point along the hike.


Despite the chilly weather, three California Trail Center staff members were trained on OHV safety on Tuesday, February 27th. The Nevada OHV rider hands-on training was led by NOS staff, Meghan Sturgell with the support of Elko AmeriCorps members. The training covered responsible riding practices, proper OHV safety gear, and a series of exercises to test rider safety. Some exercises included; weaving, evasive maneuvers, obstacle crossings, and more. By the end of the training, everyone felt more confident and comfortable on their OHV’s.



Photo Caption:
CTIC staff and Meghan S. after successfully completing the NV OHV Trainer Course.


Winnemucca’s Nevada Outdoor School invited the community to Leap into Nature on the 29th of February to celebrate the extra day in the month with craft activities. Four booths were set for the community's enjoyment, participants painted rocks with a multitude of colors, made fabulous bugs with beads, lemon bird feeders for happy birds, and the ever-useful paracord bracelet. All of this fun was experienced by seventeen members of our community, with each booth being led by NOS members Sedric, Toni, William, and Noah C.. Overall it was a great night to learn some fun skills and bug facts to enrich our community.


Photo Caption:
Sedric and participant painting rocks at Leap into Nature day.









Monday, February 12, 2024

What's New at NOS- January 2024

During January 2024, we were able to create, educate, and get individuals outside! 


Just one day after we returned from Christmas Break we jumped back into programming and community skills events! AmeriCorps members, William Neff and Sedric Zimmerman, helped community members build their own eco-friendly do-it-yourself bird feeder! In total we had 12 participants participate. 



Photo: AmeriCorps member William Neff helping participants thread a pinecone onto a piece of rope for their birdfeeder.  


In Elko on January 12th we had a change of plans and instead of going up to the Powerhouse picnic area we met everyone at the Ruby Dome Ranch and took a snowshoe trek from there! Even though it was a little cold and windy, all participants were able to make it to the Lamoille Powerhouse picnic area for pictures to preserve their memories of the experience. 



Photo: Participants and AmeriCorps members pose for a picture before the snowshoe hike. 


January 19th was our first road show of the year. AmeriCorps member, Noah Clymens, traveled to the Reno Convention Center to attend the Youth Wildlife Conservation Experience. We were able to reach about 650 people throughout the weekend. Participants both children and adults spun the wheel of ethics and were quizzed about outdoor knowledge. 



Photo caption: AmeriCorps Member Noah Clymens standing in front of the NOS booth.


January was also the start of our second Young Naturalist Club. This time around we are introducing Science in Nature. During this series of lessons, we will be exploring botany, sounds, kinetic, and potential energy. In our first class, we explored how we could grow our own plant, made cup phones, and rolled down a hill to experience kinetic and potential energy. For our second class, students dove deep into the study of plants and the identification of parts and plant types. With all of the learning of course we played games like tag! Our next class will be focused on sound.
 

On the morning of January 27th, NOS held their largest hunter education course yet! With 21 students and 13 parents in attendance, the class was full of amazing conversations and excitement. Students were taught many different skills and concepts including; safe gun handling practices, Nevada hunting laws, wildlife conservation, hunting ethics, and much more! These hunter education courses are made possible by partnering with the Nevada Department of Wildlife and we look forward to bringing more of these courses to our community!


Photo: Participants and parents listening to NOS staff member, Meghan, during introductions. 

Our final event for this month was Scribes of the Wild: Nature Journaling Workshop. AmeriCorps members Noah D. and Kaneisha discussed mindfulness, took a walk to help ground the participant's thoughts, and got them to start thinking about their surroundings. After a quick talk about what journaling is, students were able to build and decorate their own journals to take home.  During the workshop, students got to practice nature journaling skills, examining different items, randomly pulled from a tote full of objects, ranging from pinecones to small, plastic animals. With their item, they zoomed in to see all of the little details that they may have otherwise missed. They documented the size, colors, and names of their objects in their journals.


Photo: Participant deep in thought while journaling. 
Are you interested in being a part of the NOS experience? Visit our website, Facebook, or Instagram for information on upcoming events!


Tuesday, January 23, 2024

The Outside Guide- “Chilln’ in the Chill: Winter Wonderland Camping”

 Venturing into the heart of Northern Nevada for a winter camping escapade may seem eccentric, but trust me, the experience is nothing short of magical. Envision yourself in a snowy wonderland, the air so crisp it could freeze your worries away. So, bundle up, grab that thermos of hot cocoa, and let's dive into the frosty adventure that awaits.

Winter transforms Northern Nevada into a real-life snow globe, where the landscape becomes a pristine wonderland with snow-laden pine trees and frozen lakes shimmering under the moonlight. The hush of falling snow creates a serene symphony, helping you forget the hustle and bustle of everyday life as you set up camp.

Preparing for winter camping in Nevada requires a different approach to gear. Forget the flimsy summer tent – invest in a sturdy four-season tent. Sleeping bags rated for sub-zero temperatures and insulated sleeping pads become your new best friends. It's all about layering up – thermal socks, fleece-lined everything, and a down jacket that could double as a marshmallow.

Despite the cold, winter camping doesn't mean sacrificing delicious campfire meals. It calls for hearty, soul-warming dishes that can thaw you from the inside out. Imagine a steaming pot of chili bubbling away on the camp stove, the aroma mingling with the crisp winter air. Or perhaps, skewering marshmallows for the ultimate s'mores experience.

Winter in Northern Nevada doesn't mean the wilderness is dormant. It's a time when elusive creatures make their presence known. Keep an eye out for tracks in the snow – perhaps a coyote or a snowshoe hare passed by your campsite. If you're lucky, you might catch a glimpse of a majestic bald eagle soaring overhead or the elusive lynx prowling through the trees.

After a day of winter adventures, there's nothing better than soaking in a natural hot spring. Northern Nevada is dotted with these geothermal wonders. Imagine lounging in a warm pool surrounded by snow-draped landscapes, with the cold air nipping at your nose while your body luxuriates in the soothing embrace of the hot spring.

For the adrenaline junkies, winter camping in Northern Nevada has something special – snow sports galore! Whether it's strapping on a pair of snowshoes and venturing into the backcountry or gliding down the slopes on a snowboard, the possibilities are endless. Balance the adrenaline rush with moments of quiet contemplation amidst the snow-covered pines.

If you find peace in the patience of fishing, winter in Northern Nevada offers a unique twist – ice fishing. Drill a hole in the frozen surface of a lake, drop your line, and wait for that satisfying tug. And while you're waiting for the fish to bite, take a moment to absorb the stillness around you – a different kind of meditation amidst the beauty of a winter landscape.

In a world filled with constant connectivity, winter camping in Northern Nevada provides the perfect opportunity to unplug and reconnect with nature – and with yourself. The tranquility of a snow-covered forest, the crunch of your footsteps on a pristine trail, and the crackling of a campfire become the soundtrack to your escape from the digital cacophony. Embrace the solitude, and you might find a sense of inner peace you didn't know you were missing. So, as you sip your hot cocoa by the fire, watching the snowflakes gently fall, remember winter camping in Northern Nevada is not just an adventure; it's a love affair with nature in its most enchanting form. Pack your sense of wonder, leave your worries behind, and let the winter wilderness work its magic on your soul.




The Outside Guide: Embracing Winter in Northern Nevada: Nature’s Survival & Beating the Winter Blues

Ah, Northern Nevada in the winter! There's truly nothing like it. The snow-draped landscapes, the crisp air, and the warm glow of homes create a magical atmosphere. Yet, as we gravitate towards indoor warmth, a spectacle of nature unfolds. Let's embark on a journey through the wonders of this season, interweaving tales of nature's survival and exciting outdoor adventures to combat the "Winter Blues."

While our kitchens brim with festive treats, wildlife has its own culinary extravaganzas. The black bears of Alaska, for instance, engage in "hyperphagia," consuming the equivalent of 31 McDonald's Big Macs daily! This isn't just a feast; it's a survival tactic, providing insulation for the cold months ahead.

And then, the enchanting realm of hibernation. From the woodchuck's slowed heartbeat to the Poorwill bird's winter repose, nature has perfected the art of winter survival. As we marvel at their adaptations, let's draw inspiration for our own winter journeys.

Migration, a breathtaking spectacle! Flocks of birds painting the sky, caribou in graceful herds, and majestic whales crossing oceans—nature's symphony of movement. Embracing this spirit, why not plan a winter bird-watching expedition in Northern Nevada's scenic spots? Witnessing the beauty of nature in motion can be a transformative experience.

Adaptation, the essence of survival. Animals change their fur, diets, and habits, finding harmony with winter's challenges. Drawing inspiration, consider embarking on a snowshoeing expedition in the Sierra Nevada. The crunch of snow beneath your feet, the fresh mountain air—these experiences invigorate the spirit, transforming winter from a challenge to an opportunity.

As the allure of warmth competes with the call of adventure, Northern Nevada's trails and snowy vistas beckon. Picture a family snowball fight, a winter hike with friends, or an evening of stargazing. These activities not only lift the spirits but also connect us with the beauty outside our doors.

To further elevate the winter experience, why not plan a winter picnic in a local park or nature reserve? Pack some warm soup, cozy blankets, and immerse yourself in the serene surroundings. This simple yet heartwarming activity can turn a chilly day into a memorable adventure.

And let's not forget the magic of winter sports! From ice skating to building snowmen with loved ones, these activities provide exercise and create cherished memories. They transform the winter blues into a canvas of joy, celebrating the season's beauty and wonder.

As the snow blankets our surroundings, let's embrace its serenity and actively engage with the season. Step out, explore, and discover the wonders of winter in Northern Nevada, transforming this chilly time into a season of outdoor joy, exploration, and celebration. Get Outside! It’s great for everyone.  – Nevada Outdoor School  https://www.nevadaoutdoorschool.org





Thursday, January 11, 2024

What's New at NOS- December 2023

Snow or no snow, inside or outside we are always inspiring exploration of the natural world, responsible stewardship of our habitat, and dedication to community. And in December 2023 we did just that!

On December 1st, 8th, and 15th we continued and finished our Young Naturalist Club for the year. The club braved the sun and snow (sometimes all on the same day) to learn about Temporary, Fine and Functional art. Participants in these lessons built crafts to help show examples of the three types of art. And of course, we had hot chocolate to warm up! Would a NOS event be complete if we didn't have hot chocolate? Do you have a student who would like to participate in our Young Naturalist club? Call our Elko office (775-777-0814) to sign them up for our next club (Science in Nature) starting January 19th.


Picture: Participants creating various crafts in examples of the different types of art.


December 6th Noah Clymens and Melanie Erquiaga visited the Battle Born Youth Academy Career Day in Carlin, Nevada. This visit was all about educating students about potential careers they may be presented with after graduating. AmeriCorps is a nonprofit program that often recruits students right out of high school to prepare them for careers that they will have later on in life. Teaching members invaluable skills that will help them in the future is an important core value of AmeriCorps which should encourage anyone to join!

Also on December 6th Noah D. and Kaneisha attended the Great Basin College Winter Festival to educate the public about NOS and all of the things we have to offer! This event went off without a hiccup, the great thing about the event was the kids that came to our table and got information about NOS as they took stickers and brochures home with them.

Picture: Elko High School Choraliers


In Winnemucca on December 6th 2 families joined us for a Healthy Habits walk about the Splash Pad Fitness Path. Participants were encouraged to use the workout equipment around the path and enjoy a cup of hot chocolate!  

Plant identification and Leave No Trace were topics of discussion at our December 8th Snowshoe Hike on the Talbot Trail in Lamoille. Though there was not enough snow for snowshoes to be worn, it did not put a stop to all our winter fun! Not only did we find native plants on the trail but one of our participants found a geocache!

Picture: Participant finding her very first geocache along the Talbot Trail in Lamoille



Saturday, December 16th was the perfect day for the California Trail Center to host their Annual Pioneer Christmas.  Participants were greeted outside with a warm fire and the opportunity to make a s’more. Once inside their first stop was at the stocking table, where they could decorate their own stocking to be filled with treats and crafts. Other opportunities included; yarn ornaments, Christmas cards, paper snowflakes, fabric dolls, clay ornaments, candy cane reindeer, hot chocolate in a bag, and pretzel log cabins. The event was a huge success and we look forward to helping with the next one!

Picture: NOS Staff member, Meghan Sturgell, showing a pretzel log cabin example. 






What's New at NOS- November 2023


Just because it is cold doesn't mean that NOS stops helping serve their community and the people in it! From hikes to helping other non-profits we have been on the go along with visiting classrooms! Here is our What's New at NOS for the month of November!


On November 1st, AmeriCorps member William and staff member Jacklyn attended the Battle Mountain Career Fair. They spoke with around 90 students about Nevada Outdoor School, what the AmeriCorps Program was, and the benefits that come with it! Williams's biggest goal of the entire fair was to inspire others to become an AmeriCorps member with Nevada Outdoor School!

On the chilly morning of November 3rd NOS members, Noah and Kaneisha, introduced our newest program, the Young Naturalist Club. this program will take place every other Friday and is offered to two different grade groups, K-2nd and 3rd-5th The first subject focuses on different forms of art. Students participated in many activities, making their own art. They were able to draw with chalk on the sidewalks, stack rocks, and create nature paintings using sticks, leaves, and curly dock. NOS members played fun games to teach about different line types used in painting and drawing, as well as did fun crafts doing paper and yarn weaving. The Young Naturalist club will continue into December and then pick back up in January!




Picture: Participants creating art using nature as their medium





Within Nevada Outdoors Schools' mission we not only mention exploration of the natural world and responsible stewardship of our habitat but we also have dedication to community. And dedication to community is exactly what we did on November 17th. On this day AmeriCorps members Sedric, Noah, William, Amor, Elizabeth, Lauren and Toni helped the FCAA by distributing food items to the less fortunate in our community. They unloaded, sorted, and helped pack boxes of groceries for families in need. Along with directing traffic and loading items into vehicles. Giving back to one’s community is not always easy, but it is extremely satisfying and helps us build a stronger, happier community. AmeriCorps and NOS seek to better our community, regardless of season, they are here to give their all.

Pictured: AmeriCorps members William, Noah C., Amor, Elizabeth, Lauren, Sedric, and Toni. 




Nevada Outdoor School enthusiastically joined forces with the Ducks Unlimited Elko Chapter at their annual banquet on November 18. AmeriCorps members Noah and Kaneisha spent time creating an engaging and educational experience for young attendees in the "Duck Wings" children's area. This collaboration between Nevada Outdoor School and Ducks Unlimited not only added a meaningful and interactive component to the event but also contributed to instilling a love for nature in the next generation.

A successful hike was held November 27th where 3 members of the public joined NOS in a hike to the Overlook in Water Canyon. Two of the participants said they don't usually do things like hikes or similar activities during the colder months so we were able to expose them to it and made sure they had fun doing it as well. Overall, we had an impact by helping members of our community get out into nature and experience new things.


Picture: AmeriCorps and members of the public at the Overlook in Water Canyon






















Friday, December 15, 2023

Outside Guide: "Snowshoeing Shenanigans: A Hilarious Guide for Beginners in Northern Nevada"

Welcome, aspiring snowshoe enthusiasts, to the wacky world of winter wonderland exploration in Northern Nevada! If you're tired of slipping on icy sidewalks and yearn for an adventure that involves strapping tennis rackets to your feet (metaphorically speaking), then snowshoeing is your ticket to frozen fun. And where better to embark on this frosty frolic than the snow-laden landscapes around Elko, Winnemucca, Battle Mountain, and Eureka? Buckle up, or rather, strap in your snowshoes, as we embark on a laughter-packed journey into the heart of snowshoeing madness.


Before you dive headfirst into the frosty fray, it's essential to gear up properly. Forget about the latest fashion trends; in the world of snowshoeing, it's all about function over fashion. Picture this: you, decked out in layers that rival the Michelin Man, with snowshoes that make you look like a human spider trying to moonwalk. It's a look. Trust me.


Start with the basics: warm layers, waterproof boots, and of course, the pièce de résistance - the snowshoes themselves. Size matters here, so don't be shy about getting the most gigantic ones you can find. Embrace the clunkiness; it's your new best friend.


Now that you're suited up and ready to roll, let's talk about the pristine snowshoeing paradises waiting for you in the wide open spaces of Nevada. Elko, Winnemucca, Battle Mountain, and Eureka may sound like towns straight out of a spaghetti western, but these places transform into winter wonderlands perfect for snowshoeing escapades.


Elko, known for its cowboy culture, embraces a different kind of Wild West in the winter. Picture yourself gliding through the Ruby Mountains on snowshoes, the snow-capped peaks serving as a majestic backdrop to your clumsy yet determined strides. Pro tip: Practice your best cowboy swagger while wearing snowshoes for an added touch of flair.


Winnemucca may be famous for its Basque culture, but in winter, it's all about that snowshoe swag. Embark on a trail and channel your inner sheepherder – minus the actual sheep, of course. Just be prepared to explain to bewildered onlookers why you're herding invisible animals in the snow. Bonus points if you can incorporate a sheepish grin.


Battle Mountain isn't just a name; it's a testament to the epic snowshoe battles waiting to be waged. Engage in a friendly snowball fight with fellow snowshoers or challenge the elements in a dramatic duel against the wind. Just remember, the wind always wins, but the key is to go down with style.


In Eureka, where lead-silver mining once ruled, consider snowshoeing your new pursuit. Navigate the snow-covered hills with the determination of a prospector seeking the motherlode. And if you happen to find a snow-covered nugget, remember – it's probably just a rock.

Now that you're acquainted with the prime snowshoeing spots, let's explore the art of walking on snow with tennis rackets strapped to your feet. It's an important outdoor skill to learn, trust me.


*Lesson 1: The Stance*


Picture yourself as a penguin. Not just any penguin, but a penguin with snowshoes. Adopt a wide stance to avoid tripping over your own oversized footwear. Don't worry about looking awkward; in the world of snowshoeing, awkward is the new cool.


*Lesson 2: The Waddle*


Embrace the waddle. Walk with purpose, but let the snowshoes dictate your swagger. You're not going for grace here; you're going for survival. Plus, a good waddle makes for excellent Instagram content.


*Lesson 3: The Snowshoe Shimmy*


When faced with uneven terrain, channel your inner snow dance. The snowshoe shimmy involves a combination of side steps, twirls, and, if necessary, interpretive dance moves. It may not get you anywhere faster, but it's a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.


Nevada Outdoor School (NOS), nestled in the heart of Northern Nevada in Winnemucca, offers a haven for snowshoeing enthusiasts. Join their guided snowshoe hikes led by NOS Staff and AmeriCorps Outdoor Educators, who are more than willing to share their experiences on navigating the snowy terrain. As a beginner, you'll find comfort in the limited number of snowshoes available for use, ensuring you won't have to wrestle a herd of Yeti enthusiasts for a pair.


Gather at the trailhead, perhaps in Water Canyon, meet fellow snowshoers, and embark on an adventure where awkward stances and waddles are not only accepted but encouraged. The guides will patiently lead you through the paces, ensuring you shimmy through the snow-covered hills with both finesse and laughter.


Elko, not to be outdone, is home to another outpost of the Nevada Outdoor School. Prepare for a winter wonderland experience with guided snowshoe hikes that cater to beginners. Limited snowshoes are available for use, making this the perfect opportunity to try out your newfound waddling skills.


As you navigate the snowy trails of Lamoille Canyon or Southfork Meadows, take in the beauty of the surrounding landscape while bonding with fellow snowshoers over shared stumbles and triumphant waddles. The guides at Nevada Outdoor School aren’t “experts” in snowshoeing, but they are masters of turning a snowy outing into a memorable escapade filled with laughter and camaraderie.


For a unique snowshoeing experience with a touch of history, head to the California Trail Interpretive Center near Elko. Immerse yourself in the stories of the pioneers while enjoying a guided snowshoe hike through the snow-covered trails. With a limited number of snowshoes available for beginners, you'll be in good company as you explore both the historical and snowy landscapes.


The knowledgeable guides at the Trail Center will not only help you strap on your snowshoes but will also regale you with tales of the intrepid souls who traversed these very trails during the westward expansion. It's like taking a step back in time, only with more layers and fewer covered wagons.


After your guided snowshoe adventures, it's time to unwind and share your triumphs and snowshoeing escapades. Whether you're in Elko, Winnemucca, Eureka, Lovelock, Battle Mountain, Tuscarora, or anywhere throughout our great state, make sure to visit local establishments to warm up and exchange stories.


Head to a cozy café or a welcoming pub, and swap tales with fellow snowshoers over a cup of hot cocoa or a well-earned craft beer. Relive the moments of your snowy odyssey, from the quirky encounters on the trail to the triumphant waddle across pristine landscapes.


In the heart of Northern Nevada, snowshoeing isn't just a winter activity; it's a community affair. Whether you choose to navigate the snowy hills with Nevada Outdoor School in Elko or Winnemucca or delve into history at the California Trail Interpretive Center, your snowshoeing journey is bound to be filled with laughter, camaraderie, and a newfound appreciation for the wintry landscapes of this unique region. So, strap on those snowshoes, join a guided adventure, and let the snowy trails of Northern Nevada become your canvas for winter wonder. Happy snowshoeing, intrepid beginners! May your trails be guided, your snowshoes be shared, and your laughter echo through the snowy hills.  ~ Nevada Outdoor School   https://www.NevadaOutdoorSchool.org