Whether you're planning a short afternoon hike to your favorite overlook or gearing up for a multi-day backcountry adventure, preparation is the key to a safe and enjoyable experience. Spending time outdoors offers incredible opportunities to reconnect with nature, challenge yourself, and create lasting memories—but every successful adventure begins before you ever step onto the trail.
At Nevada Outdoor School, we believe that everyone can confidently explore the outdoors with the right knowledge and preparation. Here's how to get ready for your next adventure.
Start with a Plan
Before leaving home, spend a few minutes researching your destination.
Ask yourself:
- How long is the trail?
- What is the elevation gain?
- What is the weather forecast?
- Are there water crossings or difficult terrain?
- Is the trail open?
- Are permits or parking passes required?
Download maps ahead of time in case you lose cell service. While GPS apps can be helpful, always carry a paper map if you're traveling into remote areas.
If you're venturing into the backcountry, identify potential campsites, water sources, emergency exit routes, and alternate plans if conditions change.
Tell Someone Where You're Going
One of the simplest, and most important, safety steps is letting someone know your plans.
Share:
- Where you'll be hiking
- Your planned route
- Who is going with you
- When you expect to return
- When they should contact emergency services if they haven't heard from you
This small step can make a significant difference during an emergency.
Check the Weather
Mountain weather can change quickly, especially throughout Nevada.
Even if the forecast calls for sunshine, pack layers for changing temperatures, wind, or unexpected storms. If thunderstorms, wildfire smoke, excessive heat, or flash flood warnings are expected, consider changing your plans.
Remember that weather at the trailhead may be very different from conditions at higher elevations.
Know the 10 Essentials
Whether you're hiking for two hours or two days, carrying the 10 Essentials helps prepare you for unexpected situations.
These include:
- Navigation (map, compass, GPS)
- Sun protection (hat, sunglasses, sunscreen)
- Insulation (extra clothing layers)
- Illumination (headlamp or flashlight)
- First aid supplies
- Fire starter
- Repair kit and tools
- Nutrition (extra food)
- Hydration (water and water treatment)
- Emergency shelter
You may never need every item, but if something goes wrong, you'll be glad they're in your pack.
Dress for Success
Your clothing should match the conditions, not just the forecast.
Choose moisture-wicking layers instead of cotton, which stays wet and can lead to discomfort or even hypothermia in cooler temperatures.
Wear sturdy footwear that fits well and has been broken in before longer hikes. Blisters can quickly turn an enjoyable hike into a difficult experience.
Don't forget:
- Hat
- Sunglasses
- Extra socks
- Rain jacket
- Warm layer
Pack Plenty of Water and Snacks
Hydration is critical, especially in Nevada's dry climate.
Carry more water than you think you'll need. A general recommendation is about half a liter of water per hour of moderate hiking, though hot temperatures and strenuous climbs require much more.
Bring high-energy snacks such as:
- Trail mix
- Nuts
- Energy bars
- Fresh or dried fruit
- Jerky
For overnight trips, plan meals carefully and pack enough calories to fuel your adventure.
Practice Leave No Trace
Every outdoor adventure comes with the responsibility to protect the places we love.
The seven Leave No Trace principles help minimize our impact:
- Plan Ahead and Prepare
- Travel and Camp on Durable Surfaces
- Dispose of Waste Properly
- Leave What You Find
- Minimize Campfire Impacts
- Respect Wildlife
- Be Considerate of Other Visitors
Small actions, like staying on the trail, packing out trash, and observing wildlife from a distance, help ensure these places remain beautiful for future generations.
Prepare for Wildlife Encounters
Nevada is home to mule deer, elk, mountain lions, coyotes, rattlesnakes, black bears in some mountain ranges, and countless smaller animals.
Wildlife encounters are usually peaceful when animals are given plenty of space.
Remember to:
- Never feed wildlife.
- Store food securely during overnight trips.
- Watch where you place your hands and feet.
- Keep pets under control where allowed.
- Observe animals from a safe distance.
Respecting wildlife helps keep both people and animals safe.
Build Your Skills Before Going Big
If you're new to hiking or backpacking, there's no need to start with the most challenging trail.
Begin with shorter hikes close to home. Practice:
- Reading trail maps
- Using your backpack
- Filtering water
- Cooking outdoors
- Setting up your tent
- Navigating without cell service
Each trip builds confidence and prepares you for bigger adventures.
Leave Time to Enjoy the Journey
It's easy to focus on reaching the summit or checking off miles, but some of the best moments happen along the way.
Slow down.
Notice the birds singing overhead. Watch clouds move across the mountains. Look for animal tracks, wildflowers, interesting rocks, or signs of changing seasons.
Outdoor recreation isn't just about reaching a destination—it's about connecting with nature and experiencing the world around you.
Get Outside with Confidence
Preparation doesn't have to be complicated. A little planning goes a long way toward making your outdoor adventures safer, more enjoyable, and more rewarding.
Whether you're exploring a local trail for an hour or heading into the backcountry for several days, taking time to prepare allows you to focus on what matters most: making memories, building confidence, and connecting with the outdoors.
At Nevada Outdoor School, we're passionate about helping people of all ages discover the joy of outdoor recreation while learning the skills to explore responsibly. We hope this guide inspires you to lace up your boots, pack your backpack, and spend more time outside.
Happy hiking, we'll see you on the trail!
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