Outside Guide - Giving Thanks Through Trail Cleanups

November is a season of gratitude, a time to reflect on what we appreciate and to give back to the places and people that enrich our lives. For outdoor enthusiasts, one of the most meaningful ways to express gratitude is by caring for the natural spaces that bring us joy, adventure, and peace throughout the year. Trail cleanups offer a simple yet powerful opportunity to say “thank you” to the outdoors while making a lasting impact on local ecosystems and recreation areas.

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Why Trail Cleanups Matter

Each year, thousands of people visit Nevada’s parks, trails, canyons, and wild spaces. Over time, even small amounts of litter can harm wildlife, disrupt natural processes, and diminish the outdoor experience for others. Trail cleanups help:

• Protect wildlife from ingesting or becoming entangled in trash

• Keep trails safe and accessible for everyone

• Preserve natural beauty, ensuring future generations experience the same stunning landscapes

• Build community, connecting volunteers around a shared appreciation for nature

Cleaning up these spaces is a tangible way to show gratitude for the benefits the outdoors provides—from scenic hikes and fresh air to family adventures and quiet moments of reflection.

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How to Plan Your Own Trail Cleanup

Whether you’re organizing a group event or taking on a solo adventure, planning a trail cleanup is easier than you might think.

1. Choose Your Location

Pick a favorite trail, park, or natural area—somewhere you feel connected to or want to help protect. It can be a local neighborhood path, a popular recreation site, or a hidden gem that needs a little extra care.

2. Bring the Right Supplies

Pack:

• Gloves

• Trash bags

• A bucket or reusable bag for recyclables

• Grabbers (optional but helpful)

• Hand sanitizer

• Water and snacks

Leave No Trace recommends staying mindful of what you handle and avoiding hazardous materials.

3. Be Safe and Respectful

Stay on designated trails, avoid disturbing wildlife, and only pick up items that are safe to handle. If you come across anything unusual or hazardous, report it to land managers rather than attempting to remove it yourself.

4. Dispose of Trash Properly

Sort recyclables when possible, and use appropriate disposal bins or facilities. A cleanup isn’t complete until the collected trash makes it to the right place!

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Turning Gratitude Into Action

Trail cleanups are more than just a service activity—they’re an act of appreciation. By giving your time and energy to care for the outdoors, you’re helping protect the places that support recreation, adventure, and well-being. Even spending 10 minutes picking up trash during a hike makes a difference.

Looking for ways to deepen your impact?

• Invite friends, coworkers, or family to join you

• Organize a community cleanup through a local nonprofit (like NOS!)

• Participate in statewide events such as Nevada Public Lands Day

• Practice Leave No Trace principles on every outing

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A Season of Thankfulness

As we take time this month to reflect on the things we’re grateful for, let’s remember the trails, rivers, parks, and mountains that bring so much joy into our lives. Giving back through trail cleanups is a meaningful way to honor these spaces and ensure they remain healthy and beautiful for years to come.

Nature Gratitude for November

November invites us to pause, reflect, and appreciate the world around us. As the days grow shorter and the air becomes crisp, nature offers countless reminders of the beauty, resilience, and stillness that enrich our lives. This month is the perfect time to slow down, tune in, and foster a deeper sense of gratitude for the outdoors. Here are a few simple and meaningful nature-based gratitude practices to help you connect with the season and nurture your well-being.

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Take a Thankfulness Walk

Head outside—whether it’s your backyard, a local park, or a quiet trail—and use all your senses to notice what you appreciate.
Look for the warm glow of fall colors.
Listen to the crunch of leaves underfoot.
Feel the cool breeze.
Savor the scent of pine or damp earth.
Each observation becomes a small moment of gratitude.

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Keep a Daily Nature Gratitude List

Start or end your day by writing down three things in nature you’re grateful for. It could be a sunrise, a bird you noticed, the first snowflake of the season, or even the comfort of a warm jacket on a cold morning.
Over time, these small moments add up and help you appreciate the simple beauty surrounding you.

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Create a Nature-Inspired Gratitude Jar

Collect small items from your walks—like pinecones, leaves, or interesting rocks—and place them in a special jar or basket at home. Each item can represent a moment in nature you’re thankful for.
This becomes a visual reminder of the season and your connection to the outdoors.

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Practice Sit-Spot Reflection

Find a comfortable place outdoors where you can sit quietly for five to ten minutes. Observe the environment around you without judgment.
Notice how the landscape shifts with the colder weather, how wildlife prepares for winter, or how the light changes throughout the day.
These small, mindful pauses help slow the mind and cultivate appreciation.

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Spread Gratitude Through Stewardship

One of the most meaningful ways to express gratitude for nature is by giving back.
Pick up litter on a favorite trail, recycle at home, or help maintain outdoor spaces.
Even simple acts of stewardship strengthen your connection to the environment and show appreciation for the places you love.

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Share Nature Gratitude With Others

Invite a friend or family member to join you for a fall hike or nature outing.
Share what you’re grateful for in the outdoors and ask them to do the same.
These conversations often spark deeper appreciation and strengthen connections—both to nature and to one another.

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End the Month With a Thank-You to Nature

Take a moment to write a short letter (just for yourself) expressing gratitude for what nature has given you this year—peace, adventure, discovery, or simply a place to breathe.
This reflective practice helps carry gratitude into the months ahead.

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Finding Thankfulness in Every Season

November reminds us that even as the world grows colder and quieter, there is so much to appreciate outdoors. By embracing simple nature gratitude practices, we can deepen our connection to the natural world, support our own well-being, and carry a sense of appreciation into our daily lives.

So bundle up, step outside, and let nature remind you of everything there is to be thankful for this season.

What's New at NOS! October 2025

October was a busy and exciting month for Nevada Outdoor School, filled with hands-on learning, community connection, and outdoor adventures across Northern Nevada. From educational programs for young naturalists and Adventure Buddies, to field trips, family hikes, and workshops for OHV enthusiasts, NOS brought people of all ages together to explore, discover, and engage with the natural world. Participants had opportunities to practice nature journaling, learn about animal adaptations, enjoy fall-themed crafts and activities, and even experience a bit of local history on the trails. Community events, such as Business Before Hours and the Education Adventure Fair, allowed NOS to connect with educators, families, and local partners, strengthening relationships and sharing resources to promote outdoor education and safe, responsible recreation throughout the region.

October 1-3 | Nevada Off Road Summit

OHV enthusiasts gathered from across the state of Nevada. Other non-profit who are passionate about keeping Nevada Wild and enjoying the public lands in a safe and responsible way were able to network and find ways to help support each other. Topics covered were anywhere from the benefits of being part of an actual club, to Stop the Bleed which was hosted by NOS and Renown, to railroad safety were covered. Many participants were also able to join a trail ride out to Hastings Cutoff to experience part of the history here in Elko.

October 9 | Business Before Hours

On October 9, Nevada Outdoor School had the pleasure of hosting Business Before Hours in partnership with the Elko Area Chamber. This event also marked the one-year anniversary of NOS’s new Elko office, and staff were excited to celebrate this milestone with the community. Around 40 individuals attended, enjoying the opportunity to connect, network, and learn more about Nevada Outdoor School’s programs, including summer camps and the Ride Safe Ride Smart initiative. It was a wonderful morning of conversation and community connection, and NOS is grateful for the continued support of the Elko area as it furthers its mission to inspire exploration of the natural world.

October 9 | Education Adventure Fair

On October 9, Nevada Outdoor School participated in the second annual Education Adventure Fair, an event designed to connect educators with hands-on outdoor learning opportunities. This year, NOS was excited to welcome even more community partners to the fair. While attendance was smaller than hoped, the team had meaningful conversations with the teachers who joined and shared ideas on integrating nature into the classroom. For the 2024–2025 school year, Nevada Outdoor School is shifting focus from structured lessons to nature journaling, encouraging students and teachers alike to explore and reflect on the natural world around them. NOS believes that health and well-being are essential for academic success, and that connecting with nature supports physical health, mental and emotional well-being, and social development. The organization’s goal is not only to provide outdoor lessons, but also to empower students and educators with the tools and understanding to continue benefiting from time spent outdoors long after NOS has left the classroom.

October 10 | Adventure Buddies

On October 10, Nevada Outdoor School hosted its first-ever Adventure Buddies program at Peace Park, and it was a fantastic success! Fourteen young adventurers joined in for a fun-filled morning celebrating the beauty of autumn. The group read a story about the fall season, created colorful baskets decorated with leaves labeled with their favorite autumn activities, and played an energetic dice game featuring fall animals and actions to act out. Nevada Outdoor School was thrilled with the great turnout for this first session and looks forward to seeing Adventure Buddies grow and evolve. This engaging program will continue to be held on the second Friday of each month.

October 10 | NOS Young Naturalist Club Session 1

On October 10th, Nevada Outdoor School kicked off the first session of the Young Naturalist Club. During this engaging lesson, students explored the fascinating world of animal adaptations, learning how creatures like eagles, rabbits, elk, and beavers have evolved to thrive in their environments. About ten young naturalists participated in the hour-long session, which included a fun, hands-on activity where one student was dressed as a beaver to help demonstrate the animal’s unique adaptations. Participants also took time to journal their observations, curiosities, and discoveries; encouraging creativity and a deeper connection to the natural world.

October 15 | Flagview Field Trip Day

On October 15th, Nevada Outdoor School joined Flagview students for a fun-filled field trip day. Over the course of the day, NOS educators met with 201 fifth and sixth graders in one-hour sessions, introducing them to the art of nature journaling. Students practiced observing the world around them and recording their findings through writing and drawing, fostering both creativity and curiosity. It was a joy to witness each student’s unique personality shine as they engaged with nature and discovered new ways to connect with the outdoors.

October 17 | Elko Trails & Tales

On October 17th, Nevada Outdoor School joined families for the Elko Trails & Tales event at the California Trail Interpretive Center. About 48 kids and adults participated in this hour-and-a-half adventure, which combined hiking, storytelling, and a bit of Halloween fun. Along the trail, children were given the choice between a “trick” or a “treat,” leading them down different paths filled with surprises. At the end of the hike, Bayley delighted everyone with a classic Dr. Seuss story, wrapping up the event with laughter and smiles. One of the highlights included a clever “trick” where a hole was poked through a note card without damaging a dollar bill; leaving both kids and parents amazed.

October 17 | Young Naturalist Club Session 2

On October 17th, Nevada Outdoor School hosted the second session of the Young Naturalist Club, all about owls! Students learned about how owls eat, their unique adaptations, and the different sounds they make. Younger participants enjoyed a creative craft activity, making owls out of brown paper bags with coffee filter eyes and hand-traced wings. Older students took a more hands-on scientific approach by dissecting owl pellets, identifying bones, and determining what animals the owls might have eaten. Six younger and four older students participated in this engaging three-hour session filled with curiosity, discovery, and fun learning experiences.

October 25 | Winnemucca Pumpkin Painting

On October 25th, Nevada Outdoor School hosted a fun and festive Pumpkin Painting event in Winnemucca at Vesco Park. Although not all invited guests were able to attend, the smaller group created room for more community members to join in throughout the day. Participants enjoyed a relaxed, unscheduled atmosphere under beautiful fall weather. Kids especially loved decorating their pumpkins with paint and creative designs, showing off their artistic skills. The event brought families and neighbors together, fostering community connection and seasonal cheer.

October 30 | Trailing Treat

On October 30th, Nevada Outdoor School hosted the Trailing Treat event; a fun and festive outdoor gathering for all who attended! While only a few participants joined, everyone made the most of the time together, spending about an hour and a half enjoying the fall weather and community spirit. Candy bags were plentiful, ensuring everyone went home with a sweet treat. Both attendees and Nevada Outdoor School AmeriCorps members and staff embraced the Halloween spirit by dressing up in creative costumes. The event was a wonderful opportunity to celebrate the season and strengthen community connections.

October | NIMW in Elko & Winnemucca

Throughout October, Nevada Outdoor School celebrated Nevada Invasive Species and Wildlife Month (NIMW) in both Elko and Winnemucca. Across both offices, NOS educators visited more than 50 classrooms, reaching approximately 1,000 students. Lessons focused on Nature Journaling, encouraging students to step outside and experience the calming benefits of time spent in nature. Many classes enjoyed nature walks around their school campuses, discovering details from the natural world that often go unnoticed. Students also had the opportunity to explore fascinating natural items such as bull horns, acorns, hornet nests, and mule deer antlers, sparking curiosity and a deeper appreciation for Nevada’s diverse ecosystems.

Historic Outdoor Spots in Winnemucca, Elko, and Beyond

You don’t have to travel far to experience Nevada’s incredible history, sometimes, the best adventures are right in your own backyard! Northern Nevada is filled with places where stories of pioneers, miners, and Native peoples come alive amid rugged mountains and open skies. This November, take some time to explore the landscapes that shaped our state’s past while enjoying the beauty of fall outdoors.

Winnemucca: Trails Through Time

Start your journey in Winnemucca, where the history of the American West meets high desert adventure. Visit Water Canyon Recreation Area, a favorite local spot that once served as a passageway for travelers and wildlife long before modern roads existed. Today, you can hike or bike the canyon’s scenic trails while spotting remnants of the area’s ranching and mining history. Just outside town, Winnemucca Mountain offers panoramic views that make it easy to imagine early settlers crossing the Humboldt River below.

Elko: Mining Roots and Railroad Days

Head east to Elko, a city that grew out of the railroad boom of the 1860s and still carries that frontier spirit. Take a stroll through the California Trail Interpretive Center, where exhibits and outdoor trails bring to life the experiences of thousands who journeyed west in search of a new start. For a mix of history and nature, explore Lamoille Canyon, while best known for its breathtaking alpine scenery, the canyon also tells stories of early sheepherders and miners who once called the Ruby Mountains home.

Beyond the Cities: Ghost Towns and Hidden Gems

Venture farther afield and you’ll find ghost towns scattered across Nevada’s high desert, each with its own unique story. Places like Unionville, once home to Mark Twain for a brief spell, or Tuscarora, a small community that transitioned from silver mining to art, offer a glimpse into Nevada’s colorful past. These sites make for fascinating day trips, just remember to explore responsibly: never remove artifacts, avoid entering unstable structures, and always follow Leave No Trace principles to protect these fragile pieces of history.

Discover the Past, Respect the Present

Exploring Nevada’s historic outdoor spots is more than a journey through time, it’s a chance to connect with the land and the people who came before us. Whether you’re hiking near home or venturing down a dusty road to an old mining camp, take a moment to appreciate how history and nature intertwine across our state. With curiosity, care, and respect, we can keep these stories alive for generations to come.