The Ultimate Beginner’s Guide to Backpacking in Northern Nevada

Northern Nevada might not be the first place that comes to mind when you think of backpacking destinations, but this hidden gem offers stunning landscapes and adventures for all skill levels. If you’re a beginner eager to explore the diverse terrains of the Silver State, this guide is for you. We’ll cover essential equipment, valuable tips and tricks, and recommend some great starter trails to get you started on your backpacking journey.

Essential Equipment for Backpacking in Northern Nevada

`    1. Backpack

• Size: For beginners, a 40-50 liter pack should be sufficient for weekend trips.
• Fit: Ensure the pack fits comfortably and supports your back. Adjustable straps are crucial/

    2. Shelter

• Tent: A lightweight tent or a bivvy sack will provide protection against the elements. Look for one that offers good ventilation and is easy to set up.
• Sleeping Bag: Choose a sleeping bag rated for temperatures slightly below what you expect to encounter. In Northern Nevada, temperatures can drop significantly at night.

    3. Clothing

• Layering: Use moisture-wicking base layers, insulating mid-layers, and a waterproof outer layer. Weather in Northern Nevada can be unpredictable, so be prepared for all conditions.
• Footwear: Sturdy hiking boots with good ankle support are essential for uneven terrain.

    4. Cooking Gear

• Stove: A lightweight, portable stove will allow you to prepare meals efficiently. Don’t forget the fuel.
• Cookware: A small pot or pan and a lightweight, compact utensil set will suffice.

    5. Navigation Tools

• Map & Compass: Even if you have a GPS device, always carry a map and compass as a backup.
• GPS Device: Handy for navigation and tracking your progress, especially in remote areas.

    6. Food and Water

• Water Filter: A portable water filter or purification tablets are essential for making sure you have access to clean drinking water.
• Food: Pack high-calorie, easy-to-prepare meals. Energy bars, dried fruits, and nuts are great for quick snacks.

    7. First Aid Kit

• Include essentials such as bandages, antiseptic wipes, blister treatment, and any personal medications.

Tips and Tricks for Beginner Backpackers

1. Start Small: Begin with shorter, easier hikes to build your stamina and get used to carrying a loaded pack. Gradually increase the length and difficulty of your trips.
2. Check the Weather: Northern Nevada’s weather can be extreme. Always check the forecast before heading out and be prepared for sudden changes.
3. Practice Leave No Trace: Follow the principles of Leave No Trace to minimize your impact on the environment. Pack out all waste and respect wildlife.
4. Stay Hydrated: Always drink plenty of water and be mindful of your hydration, especially in the dry, high-altitude environment of Northern Nevada.
5. Know Your Limits: Listen to your body and avoid pushing yourself too hard. It’s important to enjoy the experience and stay safe.
6. Learn Basic Navigation: Familiarize yourself with using a map and compass. Even if you’re using a GPS, these skills are invaluable in case of battery failure or other issues.

Great Starter Trails in Northern Nevada

1. Ruby Crest Trail
1. Distance: 40 miles (can be done in sections)
2. Difficulty: Moderate
3. Highlights: This trail offers stunning views of the Ruby Mountains and several alpine lakes. It’s a bit longer, but you can start with shorter segments to suit your skill level.
2. Jarbidge Wilderness Area
1. Distance: Various trails ranging from 5 to 20 miles
2. Difficulty: Easy to moderate
3. Highlights: Known for its rugged beauty, the Jarbidge Wilderness features a variety of trails through picturesque landscapes, including the Bruneau-Jarbidge Rivers.
3. Hobart Reservoir Trail
1. Distance: 6 miles round trip
2. Difficulty: Easy
3. Highlights: Located near Reno, this trail offers a serene hike around Hobart Reservoir with beautiful views and a relatively gentle ascent.
4. Lamoille Canyon Trail
1. Distance: 8 miles round trip
2. Difficulty: Easy to moderate
3. Highlights: This trail provides a scenic route through Lamoille Canyon, showcasing the impressive geology and lush vegetation of the Ruby Mountains.
5. Walker Lake Trail

• Distance: 3 miles round trip
• Difficulty: Easy
• Highlights: Ideal for a quick getaway, this trail offers great views of Walker Lake and is perfect for those new to backpacking.

Conclusion

Backpacking in Northern Nevada can be an incredible adventure if you come prepared and choose the right trails for your skill level. With the right equipment, a few essential tips, and a selection of beginner-friendly trails, you'll be well on your way to exploring the natural beauty of this unique region. Remember to respect nature, stay safe, and most importantly, enjoy the journey. Happy hiking!

Nevada Outdoor School’s Summer Camps: A Season of Adventure and Learning

This summer, Nevada Outdoor School (NOS) offered a variety of engaging and educational camp programs that took participants on unforgettable journeys through nature and history. With seven distinct camps catering to kids aged 8-17, the season was packed with adventures, crafts, and valuable life lessons. Here’s a recap of the highlights from each camp:

What's New at NOS - July 2024

Welcome to our latest adventure-packed blog post! As summer unfolds, we're diving into the joys of outdoor activities that bring communities together. From the exhilarating experiences at youth fishing derbies to the camaraderie found in community hikes and the enriching growth fostered at summer camps, there's something for everyone to discover in the great outdoors. Join us as we explore the many events that make this season unforgettable for families and friends alike!

GeerGarage Partners with Nevada Outdoor School to Unveil Accessible Adventures

Nevada – a state synonymous with vibrant casinos and sprawling deserts, but beneath the neon glow and endless sands lies a hidden gem: a vast wilderness yearning to be explored. From the snow-capped peaks of the Ruby Mountains to the crystal-clear waters of Lake Tahoe, Nevada offers an adventurer's paradise.

However, the thrill of tackling these diverse landscapes can be dampened by a significant hurdle – the hefty price tag of outdoor gear. Purchasing high quality outdoor gear for every potential adventure type can quickly become a financial burden, often excluding new enthusiasts or limiting others to just a few activities based on their gear ownership. 

"Here at GeerGarage, we're passionate about breaking down these barriers and fostering a love for the outdoors for everyone. That's why we're thrilled to announce a groundbreaking partnership with the Nevada Outdoor School – a non-profit organization dedicated to environmental education and responsible outdoor recreation. 

This partnership is more than just an exciting announcement; it's a game-changer for exploring Nevada's natural wonders. We're putting our mission into action by making outdoor exploration in this unique state more accessible and sustainable than ever before."

A Shared Vision: Unlocking the Outdoors for All

GeerGarage and Nevada Outdoor School are united by a deep commitment to responsible outdoor recreation and environmental stewardship. Here's why this partnership is a perfect fit: 

• Sustainability Through Gear Sharing: GeerGarage's core mission centers around creating a circular economy for outdoor gear. By offering high-quality outdoor gear for rent, we aim to reduce waste and extend the lifespan of valuable gear. This aligns perfectly with Nevada Outdoor School’s dedication to promoting environmentally friendly outdoor practices. 
• Accessibility for Everyone: The high cost of gear can be a major obstacle for new adventurers or those wanting to explore different outdoor activities. This partnership removes this obstacle. With GeerGarage's diverse rental options, exploring Nevada's wonders becomes significantly more affordable and accessible. 
• Building a Community of Outdoor Enthusiasts: Both GeerGarage and Nevada Outdoor School believe in fostering a strong community of outdoor enthusiasts who respect and protect the environment. Through educational programs, community outreach initiatives, and this innovative partnership, we aim to cultivate a culture of responsible exploration and appreciation for Nevada's natural beauty. 

More Than Just Gear – Empowerment Through Knowledge

This partnership goes beyond simply providing access to rental equipment. Nevada Outdoor School plays a crucial role in promoting responsible and safe outdoor practices. They offer a variety of educational programs for all experience levels, covering topics like:

• Leave No Trace principles: Minimizing impact on the environment through responsible camping, hiking, and exploration practices.
• Essential outdoor skills: Navigation, basic survival skills, and first aid knowledge.
• Understanding Nevada's unique ecosystems: Learning about the flora and fauna of different regions and how to interact with them responsibly.

By combining access to high-quality gear with vital educational resources, this partnership empowers individuals to confidently explore while minimizing their environmental footprint. 

Your Nevada Adventure Starts Now – How to Get Involved

Ready to embark on your own Nevada adventure? Here's how to get started:

1. Explore GeerGarage's Gear Selection: Head over to the Nevada OutdoorSchool site to start browsing the extensive inventory of outdoor gear that is now available for rent within the Nevada community. We offer everything you need for backpacking, camping, kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, winter sports, and more!
2. Plan Your Nevada Escape: Whether you're dreaming of conquering mountain peaks, paddling across crystal-clear lakes, or exploring hidden trails, Nevada has something for everyone. Start planning your adventure and choose the perfect gear to match your itinerary.
3. Partner with the Nevada Outdoor School: Visit the Nevada Outdoor Schoolwebsite and learn more about their educational programs and resources. Gain valuable knowledge to ensure a safe and responsible exploration of Nevada's outdoors. 

Together, GeerGarage and Nevada Outdoor School are breaking down barriers and making Nevada's breathtaking landscapes more accessible than ever before. Let's explore responsibly, equip ourselves with knowledge and top-notch gear, and create lasting memories in the heart of Nevada's wild beauty!

Discovering Nevada's National Parks

Nevada, known for its striking desert vistas and rugged mountains, is home to some of the most fascinating national parks in the United States. Each park offers a unique slice of nature’s beauty, catering to various interests and adventure levels. Here's a guide to Nevada's national parks, ranked from least to most favorite, highlighting their distinct landscapes and outdoor activities.

1. Great Basin National Park

Great Basin National Park is located on the eastern side of Nevada and was established in 1986 to preserve the unique and diverse landscapes. It has been inhabited for thousands of years and was home to the Shoshone and Paiute tribes. In the late 1800s and early 1900s the area saw an influx of exploration and development, establishing it as a national park. Great Basin National Park is known for its diversity in landscapes, meadows, and deserts. Wheeler Peak is a focal point of this national park, standing at 13,065 feet and the second-highest peak in Nevada. Parkgoers can also visit the limestone case and the ancient bristlecone pines. Great Basin National Park is a stop great for hikers and those who are looking for a weekend scenic drive. The park is also renowned for its exceptional stargazing opportunities. With some of the darkest skies in the country, Great Basin is an International Dark Sky Park, making it an ideal destination for observing celestial wonders.

1. Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area

The Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area is a great location for rock climbers, hikers, and photographers. Just outside of Las Vegas, the Red Rock Canyon is known for its red sandstone formations. The colorful rock formations and deep canyons are a beautiful backdrop in the Mojave Desert. Hikers can walk the Calico Tanks Trail and Turtlehead Peak Trail, both offering great opportunities for photography. Its dramatic landscape, shaped by millions of years of geological processes, has been used for centuries by Native American tribes, including the Southern Paiute. In the mid-20th century, efforts to preserve its natural beauty gained momentum, leading to its designation as a conservation area to protect its unique ecosystems and cultural resources from development.

1. Death Valley National Park

Death Valley National Park is primarily in California, with a small northern part extending into Nevada. Death Valley is known as the hottest place on Earth, with the second highest recorded temperature in July of 1913 at 134 degrees Fahrenheit. The landscape includes salt flats, dunes, and mountains. Parkgoers can visit the Badwater Basin, the lowest point in North America, and the Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes. Hike the Mosaic Canyon or visit Artist’s Palette’s colorful rock formations. During cooler months, the park is ideal for stargazing due to its dark skies and minimal light pollution. Despite its ominous name, Death Valley has been inhabited by Native American tribes such as the Timbisha Shoshone for thousands of years. It became a site of interest in the late 19th century during the California Gold Rush, drawing prospectors and miners. In 1933, it was designated as a national monument and later became a national park in 1994, recognized for its unique desert landscapes, diverse ecosystems, and historical significance.

Each of Nevada’s national parks offers a unique adventure, from the rugged beauty of the Great Basin to the dramatic landscapes of Zion. Whether you're a seasoned hiker, a casual explorer, or someone looking to take in breathtaking views, these parks have something for everyone. Happy adventuring!