What's New at NOS - August 2024

August 2nd - AmeriCorps Rewards

The teams from Winnemucca and Elko met in Battle Mountain for an exhilarating meet-up. Participants were honored with a Certificate of National Service and received coolers filled with cups as memorable keepsakes. Creativity flowed as they designed a NOS picture frame and carefully placed personal items into a time capsule, ensuring their legacy would be remembered. To top off the day, everyone indulged in delectable desserts crafted by Meghan, making the experience unforgettable.

Nevada Outdoor School AmeriCorps Members at the end of term awards.

August 3rd - NV Bighorn Unlimited, Midas Event

On August 3rd the Executive Director, Melanie of Nevada Outdoor School took AmeriCorps members Noah and Nicole to NV Bighorn Unlimited, Midas Event, an outreach event. During this event they were able to secure donations and speak to new possible partnerships, there was an unfortunate crash early in the morning so we did talk about a lot on ride-safe, ride-smart, and OHV safety. Overall the Midas event was a successful outreach event!

August 6th - National Night Out with Humboldt Sherrif's Office

National Night Out with the Humboldt Sheriff's Office was a huge success! The staff and AmeriCorps members connected with over 230 people and handed out more than 37 helmets to those in need. The community also learned some important facts, like the surprising detail that Las Vegas is the only trauma center in Nevada! National Night Out is all about strengthening neighborhoods and building positive relationships between law enforcement and residents. This event brings people together through block parties, parades, festivals, and other activities that raise awareness of police programs and anti-crime efforts.

Ash and William at National Night Out with Humboldt Sherrif's Office.

August 9th - Crazy Lizard Hike

The Team at NOS went on a hike on the old ATV road at Sonoma Canyon. Although only two people showed up, they still had a blast. The hike was moved from the second cattle guard to the end of the road where the old AYV trail is. With the wet feet and hot sun beating down everyone was still laughing and having a good time.

August 10th - S'more than a Meteor Shower Watch Party

On August 10th, the NOS team put in the S’more than a Meteor Shower event, in partnership with the California Trail Interpretive Center. 

Manny took on the role of firekeeper, ensuring the flames stayed strong and warm throughout the evening. Nikkie was in charge of providing participants with hot chocolate, and Noah and Jamie helped guests assemble their s’mores. 

The evening started with socializing, and guests participating in making s’more or enjoying some hot chocolate. Once the sky was dark enough for participants to see the stars, staff of the California Trail Interpretive Center gave a presentation on the Perseid Meteor Shower. We learned about the Perseid Meteor Shower’s name origin Perseus, from Greek Mythology, and the science behind the Perseid Meteor Shower. Each year Earth’s orbit passes through the meteor shower, making this a yearly event. It was a great opportunity to learn something new, and to see some shooting stars!

AmeriCorps members, Jamie and Noah helping participants assemble their s'mores.

August 16th - Wild and Scenic Film Festival

Nevada Outdoor School members, Meghan and Noah, joined The California Trail Center for a night filled with awe-inspiring films at Elko High School’s Performing Arts Centers. The Wild and Scenic Film Festival is an annual event to raise money for the South Yuba River’s Citizens League. Community Members were invited to sit in and watch ten films, showcasing activism and stories of wonder. Noah and Meghan talked with community members about the AmeriCorps program and other activities NOS offers. During intermission, guests were able to enjoy a tasty meal provided by Teppanyaki. The event was an amazing opportunity to inspire stewardship and expose community members to important subjects.

August 16th-17th - Time Traveler's Camp with the California Trail Interpretive Center

The campers embarked on an exciting journey through history, diving into hands-on activities like gold panning, pioneer dress-up, and leather stamping, all themed around the California Trail. Their days were filled with engaging games like archery, sack races, and even pioneer chores, keeping them active and fully immersed in the pioneer experience. Creativity flourished as they crafted projects like weaving, pottery, and tin lanterns. Outdoor adventures, including scavenger hunts, scorpion searches, and night sky observations, brought the California Trail to life. To top it off, they enjoyed culinary delights, from churning ice cream to savoring campfire s'mores, blending the flavors of pioneer cooking with modern treats.

A NOS camper standing next to their successfully hit target. 

August 24th - 4th Annual Youth Trap Shoot Tournament

The 4th Annual Youth Trap Shoot Tournament, hosted by Nevada Outdoor School with invaluable support from the Chukar Chasers Foundation, the Winnemucca Trap Club, Nevada Bighorns Unlimited-Midas, Humboldt County, the Nevada Sheriff's Office, the Nevada Department of Wildlife, and Back Burner Smoke Haus, was a resounding success. Over 20 enthusiastic youths aged 7 to 17 took part in a day filled with gun safety practice, skill-building, and friendly competition. The event showcased fierce competition, particularly in the 11-13 age group, where a shoot-off was required to decide the first-place winner. A heartfelt thank you goes out to all the volunteers, participants, and supporters who made this educational experience and celebration of outdoor sports possible.

Winner of the Youth 20 Guage Shotgun Raffle. 

Northern Nevada Fall Foliage

Lamoille Canyon in the Fall. 

As summer ends and autumn temperatures decrease, Northern Nevada experiences a notable change in foliage. The region’s fall colors, including red maples and golden aspens, contribute to significant seasonal variation in the landscape. If you’re looking to experience the best of Northern Nevada’s fall foliage, here’s a guide to what you can expect and where to find the most beautiful displays.

When Do the Leaves Change in Northern Nevada?

In Northern Nevada, the peak of fall foliage generally occurs between mid-September and mid-October. The exact timing can vary based on weather conditions and altitude, but this period is typically when the region’s landscapes are at their most vibrant. The cooler temperatures and shorter days trigger the vibrant changing colors of the leaves.

Key Plants and Trees to Watch

Quaking Aspen (Populus tremuloides): One of the most iconic trees for fall color in Northern Nevada, quaking aspens turn a brilliant golden-yellow. Their leaves flutter and shimmer in the breeze, creating a magical effect. You’ll find groves of these beautiful trees at higher elevations, particularly in areas like the Ruby Mountains.

Maple Trees (Acer spp.): Although not as common in Northern Nevada as in other regions, certain types of maple trees do provide spectacular color changes. Sugar maples and red maples can turn brilliant shades of red and orange, offering a striking contrast against the more common golden hues.

Cottonwood Trees (Populus deltoides): The cottonwoods in Northern Nevada are known for their rich yellow to golden colors in the fall. These trees are often found along riverbanks and in lowland areas, adding vibrant hues to the landscape.

Serviceberry (Amelanchier alnifolia): Serviceberries offer a range of fall colors, from bright yellows to deep reds. Their color-changing leaves and delicate, berry-like fruits add a unique touch to the fall scenery.

Gambel Oak (Quercus gambelii): Gambel oaks are known for their striking autumn foliage, which can range from deep reds to rusty oranges. These trees are more commonly found at mid-elevations and can be a prominent feature in mixed woodland areas.

Best Places to Experience Fall Foliage

Ruby Mountains: Often referred to as the “Swiss Alps of Nevada,” the Ruby Mountains offer some of the most stunning fall foliage in the region. The higher elevations here are home to vibrant quaking aspen groves that create a golden landscape against the backdrop of rugged mountain peaks. Hiking trails like the Ruby Crest Trail provide excellent vantage points for leaf peeping.

Great Basin National Park: Located in eastern Nevada, Great Basin National Park is renowned for its diverse ecosystems and stunning fall colors. The park’s lower elevations, particularly around the Wheeler Peak area, showcase beautiful aspen groves and colorful shrubs.

Lamoille Canyon: This scenic canyon, part of the Ruby Mountains, is famous for its picturesque fall foliage. The aspen trees lining the canyon walls turn brilliant gold, creating a striking contrast with the rugged rock formations and clear blue skies.

Carson City and Surrounding Areas: The areas around Carson City, including the nearby Lake Tahoe region, offer beautiful fall foliage. The foothills and lower elevations here are dotted with colorful trees and shrubs, providing excellent opportunities for leisurely drives and hikes.

Nevada Northern Railway: For a unique experience, consider taking a fall foliage train ride with the Nevada Northern Railway. The historic trains offer a scenic journey through the changing landscapes, providing a different perspective on the fall colors.

Tips for Enjoying Fall Foliage

• Timing: Check local foliage reports and plan your visit around peak color periods. This ensures you’ll witness the most vibrant displays.
• Dress Appropriately: Fall temperatures can vary widely, so dress in layers to stay comfortable while exploring.
• Photography: Early morning and late afternoon provide the best lighting for capturing the vibrant colors. Sunrise and sunset light often add a warm glow to the foliage.

As Northern Nevada’s fall foliage season unfolds, the region reveals its natural beauty in a spectacular display of color. Whether you’re hiking in the Ruby Mountains, exploring Great Basin National Park, or simply enjoying a scenic drive, Northern Nevada offers an unforgettable autumn experience. So grab your camera, put on your hiking boots, and immerse yourself in the stunning fall landscapes of this remarkable region.