Why Stewardship Matters More Than Ever

Spending time outdoors gives us the opportunity to enjoy Nevada’s landscapes, but it also gives us a responsibility to care for them. From high desert trails and mountain forests to wetlands, rivers, and wide-open spaces, the places we enjoy are home to plants, wildlife, and communities that depend on healthy habitats.

Stewardship is about more than protecting a place from major threats. It is the everyday choices we make while we are outside. Staying on durable surfaces, giving wildlife space, packing out what we pack in, being thoughtful with campfires, and leaving natural objects where we find them are all simple ways to reduce our impact.

Small Choices Add Up

Outdoor spaces are shared by people, wildlife, and future generations. As more people spend time outside, the choices of each visitor become increasingly important.

One person picking up a piece of litter may seem like a small thing. One person staying on the trail may not seem significant. But when thousands of people make those same choices, the collective impact can be substantial.

This is one of the ideas behind Nevada Outdoor School’s Action. Impact. Choice. model. Our actions have an impact, and understanding that connection helps us make thoughtful choices when we are outside.

Stewardship Starts With Connection

People are more likely to care for places they know and appreciate. Spending time outdoors can help build that connection.

A child noticing the first signs of spring, a family watching wildlife from a respectful distance, or a hiker stopping to observe the landscape around them can all be meaningful outdoor experiences. These moments encourage curiosity and help us recognize that we are visitors in a much larger ecosystem.

Stewardship doesn't require knowing the name of every plant or understanding every ecological process. It starts with paying attention, respecting the place you're in, and recognizing that our choices matter.

Leave It Better

Leave No Trace provides a helpful framework for making responsible decisions outdoors, but stewardship can go a step further. Instead of asking only, “How can I avoid causing harm?” we can also ask, “How can I leave this place better than I found it?”

That might mean picking up litter you encounter on a trail, reporting an issue to a land manager, helping restore a damaged area, or simply encouraging someone else to make a thoughtful outdoor choice.

There isn't one way to be a steward. What matters is finding meaningful ways to care for the places that make time outdoors possible.

Stewardship for the Future

Nevada's outdoor spaces are part of what makes our communities special. They provide places to explore, learn, recreate, and connect with one another. Caring for these places today helps ensure that they remain available for the people, plants, and wildlife that depend on them tomorrow.

At Nevada Outdoor School, stewardship is part of helping people build a lasting relationship with the natural world. When we spend time outdoors, we have an opportunity to learn, to notice, and to make choices that reflect the kind of relationship we want to have with the places around us.

Get outside, pay attention, and leave it better.

Fall is a season of change, not just for people, but for Nevada’s wildlife, too. As temperatures cool and daylight hours get shorter, animals begin preparing for the months ahead. Some migrate to warmer areas, some change what they eat, and others spend the fall building up energy or finding shelter for winter.

For anyone who enjoys spending time outdoors, fall is a great season for wildlife watching. Knowing what animals are doing can make a hike, camping trip, or afternoon in the park feel a little more like an adventure.

Getting Ready for Winter

For many Nevada animals, fall is a time to prepare for colder temperatures and less available food. Animals that remain active throughout the winter may spend the fall eating more, growing thicker coats, or finding sheltered places to rest.

You may notice animals becoming more active during certain parts of the day as they take advantage of the remaining warmth and available food. Mule deer, for example, can often be spotted moving through sagebrush and wooded areas as they search for plants to eat. Elk are also more visible in some parts of Nevada during the fall, particularly during their fall rut.

Other animals take a different approach. Small mammals may spend the fall gathering and storing food, while some species find protected spaces where they can shelter during cold weather.

Changing the Menu

Fall also brings changes to what wildlife eats. As summer plants dry up and some insects become less abundant, animals have to adjust their diets.

Birds may take advantage of fall berries and seeds, while mammals search for nuts, roots, grasses, and other foods that remain available. Bears, where they occur in Nevada, spend the fall eating as much as they can before winter. Their diets can include berries, nuts, insects, plants, and other available foods.

These changes can also make wildlife easier to spot. Animals may spend more time searching for food or gathering resources, giving observant visitors more opportunities to notice them.

Some Wildlife Is On the Move

Fall is also migration season for many birds. Nevada sits along important migration routes, making wetlands, lakes, rivers, and other water sources especially valuable places for birds traveling south.

Waterfowl, shorebirds, songbirds, and raptors may all pass through Nevada during their seasonal journeys. Some species stay through the winter, while others continue much farther south.

Wetlands and riparian areas can be particularly rewarding places to watch birds in the fall. Places such as the Ruby Lake National Wildlife Refuge and other Nevada wetlands provide important habitat for migrating and resident wildlife.

Where Can You Spot Nevada Wildlife?

You don't have to travel deep into the wilderness to see wildlife. Animals live in and around many of the places we visit every day.

Try looking for wildlife around:Wetlands and lakes: Great places for waterfowl, shorebirds, and other migrating birds.
Rivers and riparian areas: Look and listen for songbirds, waterfowl, beavers, and other wildlife.
Sagebrush country: Keep an eye out for mule deer, rabbits, coyotes, and birds of prey.
Forested mountain areas: These habitats can provide opportunities to see deer, elk, squirrels, woodpeckers, and other forest wildlife.
Open fields and parks: Fall can bring a variety of migrating birds, especially during early morning and evening.
Your own backyard: Native plants, trees, and water sources can attract birds and other small wildlife.

Remember that wildlife sightings are never guaranteed—and that's part of the fun. Sometimes the most exciting discovery is a set of tracks, a feather, a chewed branch, or the sound of an animal you never actually see.

Watch Wildlife Responsibly

Fall is a great time to observe wildlife, but it's important to give animals the space they need. As wildlife prepares for winter, unnecessary disturbance can cost them valuable energy.

Use binoculars or a camera with a zoom rather than approaching animals for a closer look. Keep dogs under control, stay on designated trails where appropriate, and never feed wild animals. If an animal changes its behavior because of your presence, you're probably too close.

Wildlife watching is about more than getting a great photo. It's an opportunity to slow down, pay attention, and notice the signs of life happening around us.

This fall, take some time to explore outside and see what you can find. Look closely, listen carefully, and remember that every season tells a different story about Nevada's wildlife.

Outside Guide: Preparing for Cold Weather Hiking

 

As the temperatures begin to drop across Nevada, it doesn’t mean it’s time to put away your hiking boots. In fact, cooler weather can be one of the best times to explore the outdoors. Fall brings colorful landscapes, crisp mornings, and fewer crowds, while winter offers a completely different perspective on Nevada’s trails. With the right preparation, you can stay comfortable, safe, and ready for whatever the season brings.

Check the Weather Before You Go

Nevada’s weather can change quickly, especially in higher elevations. Before heading out, check the forecast for your specific trail or destination, not just the weather in the nearest town. Pay attention to temperature, wind, precipitation, and any potential snow or ice.

Remember that conditions at higher elevations can be significantly colder than they are in the valley. If the forecast looks questionable, don’t be afraid to change your plans. There will always be another day to explore.

Dress in Layers

One of the best ways to stay comfortable during cold-weather hikes is to dress in layers. Layering allows you to adjust what you’re wearing as your body temperature changes.

A good system includes:

• Base layer: Choose moisture-wicking clothing that helps keep sweat away from your skin.
• Insulating layer: Fleece, wool, or another warm layer helps retain body heat.
• Outer layer: A windproof or waterproof jacket can protect you from changing weather conditions.

Avoid relying on cotton as your primary layer. Once cotton gets wet, it takes a long time to dry and can leave you feeling much colder.

Don’t forget your extremities, either! Warm socks, gloves, and a hat can make a big difference on a chilly hike.

Bring More Than You Think You’ll Need

Cold weather is not the time to pack light just for the sake of saving a few ounces. Bring enough food and water for your planned hike, plus some extra in case your trip takes longer than expected.

Your daypack should also include essentials such as:

• Extra layers
• Water and snacks
• First-aid supplies
• A headlamp or flashlight
• Navigation tools
• Emergency supplies
• A fully charged phone

In colder temperatures, your phone battery may drain faster, so consider carrying a portable battery as well.

Pay Attention to Daylight

The days get shorter as winter approaches, which means a hike that would be easy to finish in the summer could leave you racing the sunset in November or December.

Plan to finish your hike well before dark, and always bring a light source, even if you don't expect to need it. If you’re unfamiliar with the trail, give yourself extra time for slower conditions such as snow, mud, or ice.

Watch for Ice and Snow

Snow and ice can transform familiar trails into completely different adventures. Slippery surfaces, hidden rocks, and icy patches can increase the difficulty of even a short hike.

Wear footwear with good traction and slow down when conditions are slick. For more challenging winter hikes, traction devices such as microspikes may be useful.

Most importantly, know your limits. If trail conditions become unsafe, turn around. Reaching the end of a trail is never more important than getting home safely.

Stay Hydrated

It’s easy to forget about hydration when you aren’t sweating under the summer sun, but your body still needs water in cold weather. Drink regularly throughout your hike and carry enough water for the entire trip.

If temperatures are expected to drop below freezing, consider how you’ll prevent your water from freezing. An insulated bottle or hydration system designed for winter conditions can help.

Tell Someone Your Plans

Before heading out, let someone know where you’re going, what trail you plan to hike, and approximately when you expect to return. If your plans change, let them know.

For more remote hikes, consider using a navigation or emergency communication device if you have one. Cell service is not guaranteed throughout Nevada, especially in rural and mountainous areas.

Practice Outdoor Ethics Year-Round

Cold weather doesn’t change the importance of taking care of the places we explore. Continue to follow Leave No Trace principles by staying on durable surfaces, packing out your trash, respecting wildlife, and leaving natural and cultural features where you find them.

Winter can also be an especially important time to give wildlife plenty of space. Animals may be dealing with limited food and harsh conditions, so observe from a distance and avoid disturbing them.

Know When to Turn Around

Perhaps the most important cold-weather hiking skill is knowing when to call it a day. If the weather changes, you’re becoming too cold, your group is struggling, or conditions are worse than expected, turning around is a smart decision—not a failure.

There is always another trail, another weekend, and another opportunity to explore.

Ready for Your Next Adventure?

Cold weather hiking can be an incredible way to experience Nevada from a different perspective. With a little preparation, the right gear, and a willingness to adjust your plans, you can enjoy the outdoors throughout the fall and winter.

So grab your layers, lace up your boots, check the forecast, and get outside. Nevada’s trails are waiting, no matter the season!

AmeriCorps Volunteer Spotlight: Ashley Berry

At Nevada Outdoor School, our AmeriCorps volunteers play an important role in helping youth and communities connect with the outdoors. Through hands-on experiences, outdoor education, and a shared commitment to service, our members make a lasting impact throughout rural Nevada. This month, we are excited to spotlight Ashley Berry, an Outdoor Educator serving with Nevada Outdoor School in Elko, Nevada.

A lifelong Elko resident, Ashley was born and raised in the community and grew up with a love for the outdoors. Camping, exploring, and spending time outside have always been an important part of her life. That connection to the outdoors, combined with her goal of becoming a teacher, made AmeriCorps a natural fit.

Ashley first learned about the Nevada Outdoor School AmeriCorps opportunity from another AmeriCorps volunteer who encouraged her to apply. She was drawn to the position because it offered an opportunity to combine two of her passions: the outdoors and education. As someone working toward a degree in Agricultural Education, Ashley saw the position as a chance to gain valuable teaching experience while serving her community.

After three months as an AmeriCorps volunteer, Ashley has already seen the impact of service both personally and throughout the Elko community. She describes AmeriCorps as a program that brings together people with similar interests and a shared desire to make a difference. For Asley, the experience has helped build her confidence while giving her the opportunity to help young people discover the natural world around them.

One of the most meaningful parts of Ashley's service has been giving kids opportunities to spend time outdoors and learn something new about nature. Whether exploring a new environment, learning about the natural world, or simply having fun outside, these experiences help young people build positive connections with the outdoors.

One of Ashley's favorite memories so far came during a Nevada Outdoor School trip to Lake Tahoe. While spending time with campers, Ashley decided to jump into the lake wearing jeans and a T-shirt; giving the kids a good laugh and creating a memorable moment for everyone. It was a perfect example of the fun, spontaneity, and connection that can make outdoor education so meaningful.

Looking ahead, Ashley plans to continue pursuing her passion for education after completing her AmeriCorps service. She hopes to work as a substitute teacher while finishing her teaching degree in Agricultural Education. Her experience with Nevada Outdoor School is helping her build skills and confidence that she can carry with her into the classroom and beyond.

“Being an AmeriCorps member at Nevada Outdoor School has been a great experience,” Ashley shared. “I look forward to seeing where my AmeriCorps journey takes me.”

Nevada Outdoor School is grateful for the energy, enthusiasm, and dedication Ashley brings to our Elko programs. We look forward to seeing all that she accomplishes throughout the rest of her AmeriCorps journey, and the many young people she will continue to inspire along the way.

Nevada Outdoor School Thanks Frank Offenhauser Foundation for $48,000 in 2026 Support

 

October 2026, Winnemucca, Nevada — Nevada Outdoor School (NOS) is proud to recognize the Frank Offenhauser Foundation for its generous support of outdoor education and community programming in Humboldt County. Through two contributions totaling $48,000 in 2026, the Foundation has helped strengthen NOS’s ability to provide outdoor experiences, expand access to programming, and support outdoor skills education throughout the region.

The Foundation contributed $43,000 toward the purchase of a new passenger van, providing Nevada Outdoor School with a safer and more reliable way to transport participants to outdoor programs and summer camps. This investment will serve the organization for years to come, helping NOS safely transport youth while creating more opportunities for people of all ages to explore Nevada’s natural spaces year-round. The van will be an important resource in expanding access to outdoor education, particularly for youth participating in NOS’s summer camp programs.

In addition to supporting transportation, the Frank Offenhauser Foundation provided a $5,000 sponsorship for Nevada Outdoor School’s 2026 Twilight Glow Ball Golf Tournament Fundraiser, held August 22 at the Winnemucca Golf Course. This contribution helped cover tournament expenses, allowing funds raised through participant entry fees, raffle ticket sales, and on-course games to go directly toward supporting outdoor education and outdoor skills courses throughout Humboldt County.

Nevada Outdoor School is grateful for the Frank Offenhauser Foundation’s continued investment in the Winnemucca community and surrounding Humboldt County area. Support from local foundations and community partners helps NOS deliver meaningful outdoor experiences, develop outdoor skills, and inspire responsible stewardship of Nevada’s natural resources.

To learn more about Nevada Outdoor School’s programs and community impact, visit Nevada Outdoor School online or follow NOS on social media.

About the Frank Offenhauser Foundation

The Frank Offenhauser Foundation is a private foundation based in Winnemucca, Nevada, dedicated to supporting charitable organizations and community projects. The foundation provides grants to nonprofits that strengthen communities and improve opportunities for residents throughout Nevada.

About Nevada Outdoor School

Nevada Outdoor School is a nonprofit organization dedicated to connecting people to the outdoors through education and exploration. Based in northeastern Nevada, NOS provides hands-on outdoor education programs, summer camps, and community events that inspire stewardship, curiosity, and lifelong learning in the natural world.

What's New at NOS! September 2026

September was a busy month for Nevada Outdoor School, with opportunities to connect with communities through outdoor education, history, wildlife, and stewardship. From exploring the night sky and learning about Nevada’s bats to discovering local history and giving back to public lands, NOS staff and community partners helped create meaningful opportunities to get outside, learn something new, and connect with the places we call home.

September 18 | Resource Fair at the Children’s Advocacy Center

On September 18, Nevada Outdoor School participated in a Resource Fair at the Children’s Advocacy Center, connecting with 59 community members. The event provided an opportunity to share NOS’s mission, introduce attendees to AmeriCorps, and highlight the free outdoor programs and educational opportunities available throughout the community.


September 19 | International Observe the Moon Night

On September 19, Nevada Outdoor School participated in International Observe the Moon Night at the California Trail Interpretive Center, welcoming 20 community members for an evening of lunar exploration. Participants learned about the Moon, its phases, and interesting facts before enjoying yoga under the stars and observing the Moon through a telescope.


September 25 | The Donner Party Experience

On September 25, Nevada Outdoor School had the opportunity to support the Donner Party Experience at the California Trail Interpretive Center, led by Macy Rohr. Participants joined Macy on a hike to the overlook of the Hastings Cutoff, where they explored the history of the Donner Party, learned about the families who made the journey, and discussed the importance of the California Trail in Nevada and American history. Approximately 29 people took part in this educational experience, connecting with the landscape while learning more about the history that shaped the region.


September 25 | Chinese Garden Bat Walk in Carlin

On September 25, Nevada Outdoor School hosted a bat-themed community program at the Chinese Gardens in Carlin. Due to windy weather, the planned bat walk was moved indoors, where participants enjoyed a Bat Chat in a comfortable space provided by the City of Carlin. Nicole from the Nevada Department of Wildlife shared information about the bats found throughout Nevada, the importance of protecting their habitat, and the incredible diversity of bats around the world. Thirteen members of the Carlin community attended and learned about everything from the world’s largest bats to its smallest, as well as white-nose syndrome and common myths and facts surrounding rabies.


September 26 | Water Canyon National Public Land Day

On September 26, Nevada Outdoor School joined the BLM, local fire squad, and community members for National Public Lands Day at Water Canyon. With great weather for working outdoors, volunteers came together to complete trail maintenance and improve the disc golf course. Projects included building stairs to make one section of the course safer and easier to access, as well as maintaining and improving disc golf tees throughout the course. The day brought the community together to care for and improve Water Canyon, an important public recreation area for the region.

Where to See Nevada’s Best Fall Colors

When you think of fall foliage, Nevada might not be the first place that comes to mind. But beyond the sagebrush and desert landscapes, Nevada’s mountains and high-elevation forests put on an incredible show each autumn. Quaking aspens turn brilliant shades of gold, cottonwoods glow yellow along mountain streams, and in some areas, reds and oranges add even more color to the landscape.

Fall is one of our favorite times to get outside at Nevada Outdoor School. The cooler temperatures make hiking more enjoyable, wildlife is easier to spot, and the changing leaves offer a great reason to slow down and explore somewhere new.

Here are a few of our favorite places to experience fall colors around Nevada.

Lamoille Canyon & the Ruby Mountains

Just outside Elko, the Ruby Mountains are one of the best places in Nevada to experience fall. Known for their towering peaks, alpine lakes, mountain streams, and tree-lined canyons, the Rubies offer a beautiful backdrop for autumn adventures.

The Lamoille Canyon Scenic Byway is an especially beautiful way to experience the season. The road winds into the mountains, offering plenty of opportunities to stop and enjoy the scenery. Harrison Pass, on the southern end of the Ruby Mountains, is another great option for taking in Nevada's fall colors.

If you want to stretch your legs, there are numerous trails throughout the area, including access to portions of the Ruby Crest National Recreation Trail.

Best time to visit: Generally September through early October, depending on elevation and weather.

Water Canyon Recreation Area

You don't have to travel far from Winnemucca to find fall color.

Located just outside the city, Water Canyon Recreation Area offers opportunities for hiking, biking, camping, and wildlife viewing. In autumn, the trees throughout the canyon provide a welcome burst of color against the surrounding high desert landscape.

Water Canyon is also a great option for families looking for a shorter outdoor adventure. Pack a picnic, take a hike, and spend some time simply noticing how the landscape changes as summer gives way to fall.

Best time to visit: Early to mid-fall, with the exact timing varying from year to year.

Copper Basin & Jarbidge

For a truly spectacular fall adventure, head north toward Jarbidge.

The Copper Basin area is known for expansive stands of quaking aspen that can transform the landscape into a sea of autumn color. Surrounded by rugged mountains and remote Nevada landscapes, this area makes for an unforgettable fall road trip.

The road to Jarbidge is remote and includes unpaved sections, so be prepared for a longer adventure and check road conditions before heading out.

Best time to visit: Typically early to mid-October, depending on elevation and weather.

Great Basin National Park

Great Basin National Park may be best known for its ancient bristlecone pines, alpine lakes, towering Wheeler Peak, and spectacular night skies—but fall adds another reason to visit.

The park's high elevations create ideal conditions for beautiful autumn foliage. Aspen groves bring vibrant yellow and gold to the mountains, creating a striking contrast with the surrounding landscape.

Take a scenic drive, explore a trail, visit an alpine lake, or simply find a place to sit and take in the changing landscape.

Best time to visit: September through early October.

Success Loop Near Ely

If you're looking for a fall road trip, put the Success Loop near Ely on your list.

The approximately 58-mile loop travels through the Schell Creek Range and is known for its mountain scenery, wildlife, and spectacular aspen groves. The trees near the summit can put on an especially impressive display in the fall.

The route includes paved and dirt sections, so make sure you check current road conditions before heading out. Plan plenty of time for stops—you'll probably want to pull over more than once to enjoy the views.

Best time to visit: Late September through October.

Fall Colors in Southern Nevada

Even Southern Nevada has its own fall foliage destinations.

Higher elevations in the Spring Mountains provide an opportunity to experience changing aspens and cooler mountain temperatures just a short drive from the Las Vegas area. Lee Canyon and Kyle Canyon are popular areas for experiencing the transition from summer to fall.

And if you're looking for a different kind of autumn scenery, Rainbow Canyon near Caliente offers cottonwoods and aspens that turn orange and yellow in the fall, set against colorful canyon walls.

Best time to visit: Timing varies by elevation and weather conditions.

Make Fall a Time to Explore

One of the best things about fall in Nevada is that you don't have to travel across the country to experience beautiful autumn scenery. From the Ruby Mountains to Great Basin National Park and from Jarbidge to Water Canyon, there are colorful landscapes waiting to be explored throughout the state.

This fall, choose a new trail, take a scenic drive, or visit a familiar place with fresh eyes. Pay attention to the changing leaves, listen for wildlife, notice the cooler air, and take some time to appreciate the seasonal changes happening around you.

And remember: the best way to enjoy fall colors is to leave them where you found them. Stay on designated trails, respect wildlife, pack out what you bring in, and leave plants, leaves, and other natural objects for the next visitor to enjoy.

So grab your hiking shoes, a water bottle, and maybe a camera, and get outside to experience Nevada in a whole new color.