What's New at NOS! January 2026

January was filled with meaningful moments of learning, connection, and outdoor adventure for Nevada Outdoor School (NOS). From peaceful moonlit hikes and imaginative youth programs to hands-on safety trainings and community outreach events, NOS brought people of all ages together to explore the outdoors in fun, safe, and engaging ways. Across northern Nevada, participants built skills, deepened their understanding of the natural world, and formed lasting connections with both nature and their community. Here’s a look back at a month of discovery, stewardship, and shared experiences outside.

January 6 | Elko Full Moon Hike

On January 6, Nevada Outdoor School hosted a Full Moon Hike in Elko, bringing together two participants for a cold but memorable evening outdoors. The group enjoyed a short hike to the park kiosk, covering a manageable yet satisfying distance while taking in the quiet of the winter landscape. Along the way, they had a meaningful conversation with a park ranger, adding depth and connection to the experience. Although the moon remained hidden, the night sky was exceptionally clear, offering stunning views of the stars. Despite the chilly temperatures, the hike ended on a warm note with hot chocolate, creating a cozy and welcoming atmosphere for all involved.

January 6 | Winnemucca Full Moon Hike

On January 6, Nevada Outdoor School hosted a Full Moon Hike in Winnemucca, welcoming approximately 14 community members for a guided nighttime outdoor experience. While clouds kept the moon out of sight, participants embraced the darkness, slowing down to engage their senses and experience the trail from a new perspective. The chilly evening added to the sense of adventure, making the hike feel both grounding and memorable. The night concluded with participants gathering for warm hot cocoa, a cozy moment that fostered connection and reflection. Through this hike, Nevada Outdoor School provided a meaningful opportunity to explore, connect, and appreciate the outdoors after dark.

January 9 | Adventure Buddies

On January 9, Nevada Outdoor School’s Adventure Buddies program welcomed two young participants for a fun-filled, dinosaur-themed session. Participants learned about dinosaurs while taking part in a hands-on excavation activity, digging mini dinosaurs out of special eggs. The group also enjoyed plenty of outdoor play, blowing bubbles and using their imaginations to stomp, jump, and run like dinosaurs. Through movement, exploration, and creative play, NOS created a joyful outdoor learning experience that encouraged curiosity, physical activity, and a love of nature.

January 9 | Nature Investigators

On January 9, Nevada Outdoor School’s Nature Investigators program welcomed its largest group yet of 3rd to 5th graders, marking an exciting milestone in the program’s continued growth. During this session, youth kicked off their fall and winter habitat lessons by exploring deserts and discovering that not all deserts are hot; some can be cold, too. They learned about the four different types of deserts and took part in a hands-on sensory activity where they played in sand with toy animals, sparking thoughtful conversations about how different animals might survive in desert environments. Through guided discussion and exploration, students also learned about the special adaptations plants and animals have developed to thrive in places where rain is scarce, building both curiosity and understanding of the natural world.

January 10 | Museum Career Day

On January 10, Nevada Outdoor School participated in Northeastern Nevada Museum Career Day, connecting with approximately 30 community members at an engaging, family-friendly event. NOS staff shared photos from past camps and programs, giving families a glimpse into the outdoor learning experiences offered throughout rural Nevada. Visitors to the table received AmeriCorps items such as frisbees, pens, and stickers, while staff spent time talking with kids about their favorite outdoor activities and explaining NOS’s mission and programs. Alongside community partners including the fire station, library, hospital, and veterinary clinic, NOS enjoyed the opportunity to build relationships, inspire curiosity, and share how outdoor education supports both youth and the broader community.

January 13 | Tread Lightly! Training

On January 13, Nevada Outdoor School participated in a Tread Lightly! training focused on enjoying the outdoors while minimizing impacts on natural spaces. The training emphasized the importance of respecting trails, wildlife, and other recreationists, and highlighted how small actions, like staying on designated trails, can make a big difference in protecting the places we love.

Sophia and Isabel, NOS AmeriCorps Outdoor Educators from Winnemucca, joined the training alongside the NOS team, adding to the collaborative and engaging learning experience. Through discussion and hands-on learning, participants explored how everyday choices can help keep outdoor spaces clean, safe, and accessible for everyone.

This training reinforced NOS’s commitment to responsible recreation and stewardship, encouraging participants to think more intentionally about how to have fun outdoors while caring for the land.

January 14 | Stop the Bleed Training

On January 14, Nevada Outdoor School hosted a Stop the Bleed training in Elko, led by NOS Director of Training and Program Reporting, Meghan Sturgell, providing AmeriCorps members from both the Elko and Winnemucca offices with critical lifesaving skills and certification. During the training, participants learned how to control severe bleeding through techniques such as applying pressure, packing wounds, and using a tourniquet, as well as how to recognize and respond to emergency scenarios where these skills are needed. Beyond building emergency preparedness, the shared experience strengthened teamwork, boosted confidence, and reinforced NOS’s commitment to safety and readiness across its programs.

January 24 | Sheep Show

On January 24, Nevada Outdoor School (NOS) hosted a Ride Safe Ride Smart booth at the 2026 Sheep Show, connecting with families and youth from across the region. Throughout the event, NOS staff and AmeriCorps members distributed approximately 30 helmets to youth who needed them, helping promote safe and responsible outdoor recreation.

The booth was filled with energy as AmeriCorps members engaged kids in interactive educational games focused on outdoor safety. Participants who joined in received NOS merchandise, making learning both fun and memorable. Over the course of the event, the NOS team interacted with an estimated 250 community members, sharing resources and building awareness around helmet use and safe riding practices.

In addition to outreach with families, the event provided valuable opportunities for partnership and connection. AmeriCorps members met with a representative from the Lahontan Audubon Society and had meaningful conversations with both the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) and the Nevada Department of Wildlife (NDOW), strengthening relationships with fellow organizations dedicated to outdoor education and stewardship.

Love Where You Hike: Destination Recreation with a Leave No Trace Lens

Northern Nevada is a winter wonderland like no other. From the snowy peaks of the Ruby Mountains to the quiet trails near Elko and Winnemucca, our backcountry offers endless opportunities for snowshoeing, winter hiking, cross-country skiing, and simple exploration. But winter adventures in Northern Nevada come with a responsibility: protecting the delicate landscapes and wildlife that make this region so special.

Practicing Leave No Trace while enjoying destination recreation ensures that the natural beauty we love remains intact for generations to come. Here’s how we can enjoy Northern Nevada responsibly this winter.

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Plan Ahead: Know Before You Go

Northern Nevada winters can be unpredictable. Snowstorms, icy trails, and limited daylight can quickly turn a simple outing into a risky adventure. Planning ahead protects both you and the land:

• Check local trail conditions and avalanche risks, especially in mountain regions like the Ruby Mountains or Santa Rosa Range.

• Dress in layers, pack extra food, and bring navigation tools—even if you’re sticking to familiar trails.

• Understand regulations for camping, fires, and wildlife areas in your destination.

Being prepared reduces the temptation to take shortcuts or create informal campsites that can damage sensitive ecosystems.

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Travel and Camp on Durable Surfaces

Even in snowy Northern Nevada, fragile alpine plants and shrubs lie beneath the snow, waiting for spring to grow again. Stick to:

• Established trails or deep snow when traveling cross-country.

• Designated winter campsites or hard-packed snow for overnight stays.

Avoid compressing vegetation under thin snow—every footprint can leave a mark that lingers well into the next season.

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Pack It In, Pack It Out

Snow and ice don’t make trash disappear. Litter—even biodegradable items like food scraps—can harm local wildlife, including mule deer, rabbits, and birds, whose winter resources are already scarce.

• Bring a small pack to carry out all trash, wrappers, and food scraps.

• Human waste should be packed out or disposed of according to backcountry regulations.

Leaving nothing behind helps preserve the remote beauty that draws us to Northern Nevada’s winter trails.

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Respect Wildlife During Winter

Animals in Northern Nevada’s high desert and mountain regions are conserving energy to survive the cold months. Disturbing them—even unintentionally—can have serious consequences.

• Observe wildlife from a distance.

• Keep dogs under control, and avoid feeding animals.

• Admire tracks in the snow, but don’t follow them.

Our winter presence should be gentle and non-disruptive, leaving wildlife to thrive in their natural environment.

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Fire Safety in Winter

A warm fire can be tempting after a day in the snow, but Northern Nevada’s backcountry can be surprisingly vulnerable.

• Use camp stoves whenever possible, as they have minimal impact.

• If fires are permitted, use existing fire rings and keep fires small.

• Fully extinguish fires, and never rely on snow to hide hot embers.

Protecting the land from fire scars preserves the wilderness experience for future adventurers.

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Leave What You Find

Northern Nevada is full of unique natural treasures, icy rock formations, frost patterns in the desert, and tracks from elusive wildlife.

• Capture memories with photos, not by removing rocks, plants, or other natural items.

• Preserve the environment so that others can experience the same sense of wonder.

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Love Where You Hike

Northern Nevada’s winter landscapes are fragile, beautiful, and uniquely rewarding. Practicing Leave No Trace principles ensures that our favorite trails, mountains, and hidden valleys remain vibrant and healthy.

Every snowshoe track, every ski glide, and every hike is an opportunity to show care for the land. By planning ahead, traveling responsibly, respecting wildlife, and leaving no trace, we can all love where we hike—and protect it for those who come after us.

Leave No Trace in Winter: Caring for the Outdoors When It Matters Most

 

Winter landscapes invite us into a quieter, more delicate version of the outdoors. Snow-covered trails, frozen rivers, and crisp mountain air create opportunities for snowshoeing, skiing, winter hiking, and peaceful exploration. But while winter may feel rugged and resilient, it is actually one of the most vulnerable times for natural spaces. Practicing Leave No Trace in winter is not only important, it’s essential.

Why Leave No Trace Matters More in Winter

Cold temperatures and snow slow down natural processes. Footprints, campfire scars, and compacted snow can linger far longer than they would in summer. Plants and soil beneath the snow are often dormant but alive, and winter wildlife is expending precious energy just to survive. Our actions during this season can have lasting impacts.

By following Leave No Trace principles, we protect wildlife, preserve fragile ecosystems, and ensure that the next group of explorers experiences the same quiet beauty we did.

Plan Ahead and Prepare

Winter conditions can change quickly, so preparation is the first step in responsible recreation. Check the weather, daylight hours, and trail conditions before heading out. Dress in layers, bring extra food and water, and pack the right gear so you won’t need to create shortcuts, emergency shelters, or fires that can damage the environment.

Staying prepared also helps prevent rescues that put both people and wild places at risk.

Travel and Camp on Durable Surfaces

Snow can hide fragile vegetation and uneven terrain. When hiking or snowshoeing, stick to established trails or travel on deep, packed snow when possible. Avoid walking on thin snow where plants and soil may be exposed.

If you’re camping, choose established winter campsites or camp on snow rather than on bare ground. This protects vegetation that would otherwise be crushed and slow to recover.

Pack It In, Pack It Out, Even in the Snow

Trash doesn’t disappear just because it’s cold. In fact, it’s often harder to spot once snow melts. Pack out everything you bring in, including food scraps, tissues, and wrappers. Even biodegradable items like orange peels or nut shells can harm wildlife and take a long time to break down in winter conditions.

Human waste should be disposed of properly using restrooms or following backcountry guidelines, even when the ground is frozen.

Respect Wildlife During Their Hardest Season

Winter is survival mode for animals. Food is scarce, and every bit of energy counts. Getting too close, making loud noises, or forcing animals to move wastes energy they need to stay warm and alive.

Observe wildlife from a distance, never feed animals, and keep dogs under control. If you see tracks in the snow, admire them, but don’t follow them.

Be Careful with Fire

Fires may feel extra appealing in cold weather, but they can leave lasting scars on snowy landscapes. If fires are allowed, use established fire rings and keep them small. Make sure all embers are fully out before leaving, snow can hide hot coals that later cause damage or even wildfires.

Whenever possible, use a camp stove instead of building a fire.

Leave What You Find

Winter reveals beautiful patterns in ice, snow, and wildlife tracks. Enjoy them, photograph them, and leave them where they are. Removing natural objects or disturbing snowy landscapes takes away from the experience of those who come after you.

Protecting the Places We Love

At Nevada Outdoor School, we believe the outdoors is for everyone, and that means caring for it in every season. When we practice Leave No Trace in winter, we’re protecting the landscapes that support wildlife, provide recreation, and inspire curiosity year-round.

Whether you’re going for a short walk in the snow or heading out on a winter camping trip, your choices matter. Small actions add up to a big difference. By traveling thoughtfully, respecting wildlife, and leaving places better than we found them, we help ensure that winter remains a season of wonder for generations to come.

AmeriCorps Highlight: Isabel Tolotti

Nevada Outdoor School is proud to highlight Isabel Tolotti, an AmeriCorps Outdoor Educator serving with our team in Winnemucca, Nevada. Isabel has been a dedicated AmeriCorps member for nearly two terms, bringing enthusiasm, care, and a strong sense of community to every program she supports.

Originally from Kentucky, Isabel comes from a small, close-knit family and was drawn to AmeriCorps in search of hands-on, active work that would allow her to challenge herself while making a meaningful difference. After learning about the AmeriCorps program, she saw it as an opportunity to grow personally while giving back, an opportunity she didn’t hesitate to pursue.

To Isabel, AmeriCorps is a national service that helps communities thrive. She believes the program is important because it brings people together to create positive change, both locally and beyond. Through her service with Nevada Outdoor School, Isabel has seen firsthand how outdoor education can strengthen communities and help people understand why caring for the earth matters.

On a personal level, Isabel shares that her time as an AmeriCorps member has helped her gain confidence, an impact that continues to shape her growth as an educator and leader. Within the Winnemucca community, her work has contributed to building stronger connections and fostering environmental stewardship among youth and families.

When asked about her favorite AmeriCorps experience so far, Isabel doesn’t hesitate: summer camps stand out as a highlight. From spending extended time outdoors to connecting with students through hands-on learning, these moments have been some of the most meaningful parts of her service.

For anyone considering AmeriCorps, Isabel has simple advice: “Try it! You might just fall in love.” While she’s still exploring what comes next after her AmeriCorps service, she’s confident that the experience is equipping her with lifelong skills that will carry forward into whatever path she chooses.

We are grateful to have Isabel as part of the Nevada Outdoor School AmeriCorps team and thankful for the passion, energy, and heart she brings to our programs and the Winnemucca community.

What's New at NOS! December 2025

December was a busy and meaningful month for Nevada Outdoor School, filled with opportunities to connect with learners of all ages, support community partners, and celebrate the season through outdoor education and service. From classrooms and college campuses to community events and winter hikes, NOS staff and AmeriCorps members brought hands-on learning, Leave No Trace principles, and a spirit of togetherness to communities across Northern Nevada. The following highlights reflect a month of growth, collaboration, and shared experiences that closed out the year on a strong and joyful note.

December 4 | GBC ESL Class

On December 4, Nevada Outdoor School’s AmeriCorps members spent two hours at Great Basin College with a group of 10 English language learners, introducing them to NOS and the organization’s mission. The session began with an overview of AmeriCorps service and an introduction to Leave No Trace principles, followed by an interactive Plan Ahead and Prepare activity in which participants worked through outdoor scenarios, selected appropriate clothing, and chose essential items to bring on their trip. The group also enjoyed making s’mores, an especially memorable experience, as several participants were trying one for the first time. The visit concluded with relaxed conversation, connection-building, and a few fun magic tricks, creating a welcoming and engaging learning environment for everyone involved.

December 5 | S’more with Santa

On December 5, Nevada Outdoor School supported the S’more with Santa event, welcoming more than 100 community members for an evening of holiday fun and outdoor connection. Children participated in a festive scavenger hunt, searching for 12 Christmas-themed items to earn the chance to make their own s’mores. Families also had the opportunity to go indoors to take photos with Santa. NOS staff and AmeriCorps members worked together to keep the event running smoothly, managing check-in, s’more ingredients, and the campfire. The evening wrapped up with kids learning how to safely make s’mores over a campfire at CTIC, creating a warm, memorable experience for the community.

December 8 | Project Santa

On December 8, Nevada Outdoor School proudly supported Project Santa, a meaningful community initiative hosted by the Frontier Community Coalition in Winnemucca from December 8 through December 12. AmeriCorps members assisted FCC staff by wrapping and organizing donated gifts for families in need, contributing five hours of volunteer service to support the effort. During that time, each AmeriCorps member helped prepare gifts for at least four different families, ensuring holiday cheer reached as many households as possible. Project Santa is an annual program that plays an important role in supporting local families during the holiday season, and Nevada Outdoor School was grateful for the opportunity to partner with the Frontier Community Coalition and be part of an initiative that brings joy and relief to the community.

December 9 | NOS Christmas Party

On December 9, Nevada Outdoor School celebrated the end of the year with a Christmas party at the Martin in Winnemucca, bringing together nearly the entire NOS team and AmeriCorps members. The evening was filled with holiday cheer as staff enjoyed a white elephant gift exchange, festive games, and time to connect and reflect as a team. As part of the annual celebration, the Nevada Outdoor School Board of Directors presented end-of-year awards to recognize outstanding contributions. This year, Kim Pay was honored for creating excellent programming, and Toril Tapia was recognized for marketing and sharing that programming with the community. The celebration marked the close of a strong year for Nevada Outdoor School, highlighted by growth in both programming and participant numbers.

December 10 | Winter Wanderwood Hike

On December 10, Nevada Outdoor School hosted a Winter Wanderwood Hike, bringing community members together for an afternoon walk through the canyon. The weather was chilly with a light wind, creating a true winter atmosphere and a great opportunity to slow down and observe seasonal changes in the landscape. We shared insights about winter ecology in the canyon, pointing out how plants and animals adapt to colder temperatures and limited resources. After the hike, the group gathered to enjoy warm beverages, giving everyone a chance to connect. The event offered a calm and welcoming space to experience the outdoors in winter and build community through shared curiosity and conversation.

December 11 | Flagview Day

On December 11, Nevada Outdoor School participated in Flagview Day, reaching 308 fifth- and sixth-grade students through engaging, hands-on lessons. NOS led a Five Senses activity that encouraged students to explore how sight, sound, touch, smell, and taste help them understand the world around them, while also challenging them to rely more heavily on one sense when another was limited. Interactive tools such as smell jars and sensory balloons helped bring the lesson to life and kept students actively involved. Nevada Outdoor School partnered with Flagview CIS, with Mrs. O playing a key role in ensuring the day ran smoothly. Teachers were highly engaged and supportive throughout the program, contributing to a positive learning environment. With favorable weather, NOS was also able to take portions of the lesson outdoors, enhancing the experience and allowing students to connect their learning directly to the natural environment.

December 14 | Pioneer Christmas

On December 14, Nevada Outdoor School proudly participated in Pioneer Christmas, an event that proved to be a tremendous success for the entire community. NOS staff embraced the pioneer spirit by dressing in period attire and welcoming the many families who attended throughout the day. NOS hosted a s’mores station that quickly became a favorite, with both kids and parents enjoying the warm, hands-on experience. Midway through the event, NOS staff also stepped in to support the treadle machine station, ensuring it continued to run smoothly despite staffing shortages. This station saw strong engagement, with many families stopping by and several children having the opportunity to safely try the treadle machines under supervision. Overall, Pioneer Christmas was a highly successful event, and families left feeling happy, engaged, and satisfied with their experience.

December 17 | Sunsets & S’mores

Nevada Outdoor School hosted a lively Sunsets & S’mores event at Highland Park, on December 17th, welcoming families for an evening of community, connection, and outdoor fun. The park was decorated with string lights, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere as the sun set over the park. Families enjoyed gathering around the fire, roasting s’mores and seeing just how many they could make before the night ended. A photo booth was set up and well-used throughout the evening, giving families a chance to capture memories together. Despite the chilly weather, the combination of the campfire, glowing lights, and colorful sunset made the evening feel cozy and worth staying out for. Sofia led Leave No Trace games, helping families learn how to enjoy outdoor spaces responsibly while having fun around the fire. The event created a welcoming space for families to relax, play, and experience the outdoors together, ending the evening with full stomachs, warm hands, and lasting memories.

December 22 | Frosty Yurt Hike

On December 22, Nevada Outdoor School hosted the Frosty Yurt Hike in Water Canyon, welcoming families for a winter adventure focused on outdoor exploration and stewardship. Participants hiked up to the yurt while NOS staff shared facts and discussed the Leave No Trace principles along the way, helping families learn how to recreate responsibly in winter conditions. Three families joined the hike and braved the cold, windy weather, enjoying the experience together despite the elements. Nevada Outdoor School partnered with the Humboldt County Library for this event, allowing the program to reach more community members and encourage greater participation in outdoor activities. The hike concluded with warm, delicious s’mores, creating a relaxing and welcoming atmosphere that brought everyone together. Overall, the Frosty Yurt Hike was a successful event that inspired participants to spend time outdoors while gaining valuable knowledge about Leave No Trace principles.

Outside Guide: How to Set Realistic Outdoor Goals for the Year

A new year often brings big plans and fresh motivation to spend more time outside. While it’s easy to set ambitious outdoor goals, the key to long-term success is making them realistic, flexible, and meaningful. At Nevada Outdoor School, we believe outdoor goals should inspire curiosity and confidence, not pressure. Whether you’re new to outdoor activities or looking to build on existing skills, here’s how to set outdoor goals you can actually achieve this year.

Start Where You Are

Before setting goals, take an honest look at your current routine, experience level, and available time. How often do you realistically get outside during the week? What activities do you already enjoy? Starting from where you are helps prevent burnout and builds confidence as you progress.

Instead of aiming for daily adventures, consider goals like a weekly walk on a local trail or a monthly family outing. Small, consistent steps add up.

Focus on Experiences, Not Just Outcomes

Outdoor goals don’t have to be about distance, speed, or difficulty. Some of the most meaningful goals focus on experiences; trying a new trail, learning a new skill, or spending intentional time outside with family or friends.

Examples include:

• Exploring one new local outdoor space each month

• Learning basic navigation or outdoor cooking skills

• Spending uninterrupted outdoor time with your family once a week

Experience-based goals leave room for flexibility and enjoyment.

Make Goals Seasonal and Flexible

Outdoor opportunities change with the seasons, especially in Northern Nevada. Weather, daylight, and schedules all affect what’s possible. Break your goals into seasonal chunks rather than year-long expectations. Winter might focus on short hikes and observation, while summer allows for longer adventures.

Flexibility keeps outdoor time enjoyable and helps you adapt when plans change.

Build Goals Around Community

Outdoor goals are easier, and more fun, when shared. Look for ways to involve others, whether that’s attending a community hike, signing up for a class, or exploring with a friend. Community accountability and shared experiences can help you stay motivated throughout the year.

Participating in local programs, like those offered by Nevada Outdoor School, can also provide structure, learning opportunities, and encouragement as you work toward your goals.

Celebrate Progress, Not Perfection

Every step outside counts. Celebrate small wins, like showing up on a cold day, learning something new, or simply slowing down long enough to notice your surroundings. Progress isn’t always measurable, and that’s okay.

Outdoor goals should support your well-being, curiosity, and connection to the natural world, not add stress.

Make the Outdoors a Habit

The most successful outdoor goals are the ones that become part of everyday life. Keep gear accessible, plan simple outings, and choose activities that fit naturally into your routine. When outdoor time feels manageable, it becomes something you look forward to rather than something you have to schedule.

This year, set outdoor goals that meet you where you are and grow with you. With realistic expectations and a sense of curiosity, every season offers opportunities to learn, explore, and connect outside.

Discover Something New: Winter Desert Exploration

When most people think of exploring the desert, summer heat and wide-open landscapes often come to mind. But winter offers a quieter, cooler, and often overlooked opportunity to experience Nevada’s desert in an entirely new way. At Nevada Outdoor School, we believe every season holds the potential for discovery, and winter desert exploration is full of unexpected lessons and moments of wonder.

A Different Kind of Desert Beauty

Winter transforms the desert. Snow dusts sagebrush and mountain ridges, frost clings to grasses, and the air carries a stillness that’s hard to find during busier seasons. With fewer visitors on the trails, winter is a perfect time to slow down, observe closely, and notice details that are easy to miss; animal tracks in the snow, subtle plant adaptations, and the way light moves across the landscape.

Wildlife Clues in the Cold

While some animals migrate or hibernate, many desert species remain active throughout the winter. Cooler temperatures make it easier to spot tracks, scat, and other signs of wildlife activity. Coyotes, rabbits, deer, and birds leave behind stories written in snow and mud, offering a hands-on way to learn about animal behavior, movement, and survival strategies. Winter is an ideal season for practicing observation skills and asking curious questions about how wildlife adapts to harsh conditions.

Learning How the Desert Adapts

The desert may look quiet in winter, but it is anything but dormant. Plants conserve energy, seeds lie in wait for spring moisture, and ecosystems adjust to freezing nights and short days. Winter exploration helps us understand resilience, how living things endure cold, wind, and limited resources. These lessons connect naturally to Leave No Trace principles and foster a deeper respect for fragile desert environments.

A Comfortable Season to Explore

One of the best parts of winter desert exploration is the comfort. Cooler temperatures make hiking more enjoyable, especially for families and young explorers. Layering up, sipping something warm, and moving at a slower pace create opportunities for meaningful conversations, curiosity-driven learning, and shared experiences outdoors.

Discover Something New Close to Home

You don’t have to travel far to find adventure. Winter invites us to rediscover familiar places with fresh eyes. A local trail, canyon, or open space can become a classroom filled with seasonal changes and new perspectives. By exploring during the winter months, we learn that nature doesn’t shut down, it simply shifts.

At Nevada Outdoor School, we encourage our community to step outside year-round, embrace curiosity, and discover something new in every season. This winter, bundle up, head into the desert, and see what stories the landscape has waiting for you.