Ride Safe, Ride Smart: Empowering Safe OHV Practices Across Nevada

At Nevada Outdoor School, we believe outdoor adventures should be exciting, and safe. That’s why our Ride Safe, Ride Smart program continues to expand its reach and impact, helping youth and families across Nevada learn how to enjoy Off-Highway Vehicles (OHVs) responsibly and safely. From helmet giveaways to hands-on skills courses and classroom partnerships, we're proud to share some of our recent efforts to build a culture of OHV safety.

Helmet Outreach and Training at Sand Mountain

October brought one of our most impactful events yet. On October 26th, our team returned to Sand Mountain, where we interacted with 266 participants over two days. We distributed an incredible 155 helmets and facilitated a Youth Rider Evaluation, where 11 young riders took part in skill assessments focused on safe ATV operation. Parents and families from across the region stopped by, many expressing appreciation for our hands-on approach to safety education. We were thrilled to see more kids wearing helmets by the end of the weekend — proof that education truly leads to action.

We returned to Sand Mountain again over Easter weekend, where we distributed an additional 110 helmets, further expanding our reach in one of Nevada’s most popular OHV recreation areas.

Launching a New After-School Program

On March 19th, we kicked off our latest Ride Safe, Ride Smart class with a group of enthusiastic students. With support from Communities in Schools, we launched a dedicated after-school program that dives into critical topics like durable versus non-durable surfaces, outdoor preparedness, and safe ATV navigation. Students engaged in interactive activities and games, reinforcing key safety concepts in a fun and memorable way.

To encourage commitment, Communities in Schools is sponsoring a raffle, students who attend every session have the chance to win a free spot at summer camp, blending learning with opportunity.

Spreading Safety at Logandale Trails

Later in March, we joined the Logandale Junior Ranger Day on March 29–30, hosting a Youth Helmet OHV Safety Booth at Logandale Trails. Our team engaged with 106 participants, including families eager to learn more about safe riding habits. We distributed 40 helmets and spent a total of 424 hours outdoors, offering practical safety advice and building relationships with key partners like the Bureau of Land Management and other outdoor safety advocates.

Online and Statewide Education

Ride Safe, Ride Smart doesn’t stop at in-person events. This year, 33 adults and two youth completed our online OHV safety course, demonstrating the value of accessible education for riders of all ages.

We also participated in the Clark County Fair from March 9–13, where we met with 258 attendees and handed out 60 helmets to Nevada youth. In November, we partnered with Renown Medical Hospital at the Nevada Farm Bureau Conference, engaging with 22 participants about OHV safety and helmet use.

Reaching Rural Nevada

Outreach to Nevada’s rural schools remains a cornerstone of our mission. In early 2025, we connected with 34 students during our RS2 and AIC education programs alongside the USFS, BLM Biology, and Fire teams in Paradise Valley and McDermitt. These partnerships help ensure that even Nevada’s most remote communities receive the tools they need to enjoy outdoor recreation safely.

Thank You to Our Supporters

Nevada Outdoor School would like to extend our sincere thanks to NV Energy, the Nevada Off-Highway Vehicles Program, and the Yamaha Outdoor Access Initiative for their generous support of the Ride Safe, Ride Smart program. Their contributions make it possible for us to provide life-saving safety education, distribute helmets, and empower youth and families to enjoy Nevada’s outdoor spaces responsibly. We’re incredibly grateful for their partnership in helping make our trails and communities safer.

A Safer Trail Ahead

From classrooms to desert trails, Nevada Outdoor School’s Ride Safe, Ride Smart program continues to grow in impact and reach. With over 365 helmets distributed so far this year and hundreds of meaningful interactions across Nevada, we're proud to lead the charge in promoting safe, respectful OHV use.

Thank you to our partners, volunteers, and community members who help make this work possible. Together, we’re creating a culture of safety that protects both people and public lands, one helmet at a time.

Ride safe. Ride smart. See you on the trail!

What's New at NOS! March 2025

March was a busy and exciting month for Nevada Outdoor School, filled with a variety of engaging and educational programs across Northern Nevada. From hands-on outdoor skills workshops to historical tours and conservation projects, our team connected with hundreds of participants, fostering a deeper appreciation for outdoor recreation, safety, and stewardship. Whether teaching archery basics, promoting responsible OHV use, or inspiring young naturalists in the classroom, we remained committed to providing meaningful learning experiences. We are grateful for the enthusiasm of our participants, the support of our community partners, and the opportunity to continue our mission of getting people outside to learn, explore, and grow. Read on to learn more about the exciting activities that made March a memorable month!

March 1st | Beginner Archery Workshop

On March 1st, Nevada Outdoor School hosted an archery event at the Humboldt County Shooting Park, where 21 participants had the opportunity to learn basic archery skills, safety, and etiquette. Participants demonstrated great respect and curiosity, asking thoughtful questions throughout the session. After covering fundamental skills and safety protocols, everyone had the chance to practice shooting, refine their stances, and improve their aim. This hands-on experience provided a fun and educational environment, reinforcing the importance of safe and responsible outdoor recreation. Nevada Outdoor School appreciates the enthusiasm of all participants and looks forward to future archery events that inspire confidence and skill development in the outdoors.

March 7th | Trails Through Time

On March 7th, Nevada Outdoor School hosted a historical walking tour in downtown Elko, providing 13 participants with a unique and enriching experience in ideal weather conditions. The tour included exclusive access to both the interiors and exteriors of several historic venues, where knowledgeable representatives shared the historical significance of each building, including local family stories and Elko’s deep-rooted heritage. Many participants noted that while they had taken Elko tours before, they had never been able to explore the inside of these buildings or hear from multiple expert speakers, making this event particularly special. Highlights of the tour included a rare visit to the basement and vault of the historic Henderson Bank building and an insider’s look at the craftsmanship of JM Capriola’s renowned leatherwork. Special guest speaker D’ette from the Northeastern Nevada Museum provided historical insights along the route and shared early Elko photographs, offering a striking "before and after" perspective on the town’s development. Participants enjoyed food provided by McAdoo’s and snacks from Sugar y Spice, adding to the experience. Each venue partner expressed enthusiasm for the event and interest in future collaborations. Nevada Outdoor School extends its appreciation to everyone who contributed to making this historical exploration a success.

March 12th-13th | ECSD Stem Fair

On March 12th-13th, Nevada Outdoor School participated in the ECSD STEM Fair, engaging with 614 eager attendees. Children were especially excited to explore the elk hide, learning about how elk feel, see, and interact with their environment. As soon as students from various schools across northern Nevada entered the building, they flocked to our booth, fascinated by the knowledge we had to share. Along with the kids, many parents and adults showed interest in our programs, asking how they could get their children involved in our workshops and summer camps. Nevada Outdoor School provided both children and adults with engaging and memorable learning experiences, deepening their appreciation for the wildlife in our local area.

March 14th | Luck of the Toss

On March 14th, Nevada Outdoor School hosted the Luck of the Toss event, setting up two adult-sized cornhole sets and one child-sized set. Although only one community member attended, they brought an amazing attitude, playing cornhole in the snow for two hours. While we were prepared with leprechaun traps and treasure pots filled with candy for kids, none showed up. Despite the low turnout, we embraced the opportunity to spend time outdoors, enjoying the fresh air and friendly competition—especially as AmeriCorps Member, Beau was soundly defeated multiple times by our enthusiastic guest!

March 19th | Ride Safe, Ride Smart Class 1

On March 19th, Nevada Outdoor School held the first session of our Ride Safe, Ride Smart class, engaging students in active discussions about durable versus non-durable surfaces and the essentials of being prepared for outdoor excursions. Through an interactive game, participants navigated mock ATV and outdoor scenarios, reinforcing key safety principles. In partnership with Communities in Schools, we launched an after-school program dedicated to Ride Safe, Ride Smart education, working closely with four students. To encourage consistent participation, Communities in Schools is sponsoring a raffle—students who attend all sessions will be entered for a chance to win a free spot at summer camp!

March 21st | Cub Scout Conservation Project

On March 21st, 23 Cub Scouts and their parents joined Nevada Outdoor School for a hands-on conservation project. The Scouts learned about the importance of conservation and how they can take action to protect the environment. Through an engaging lesson, they explored ways to recycle and reduce waste before putting their knowledge into practice with a cleanup effort at Spring Creek’s Marina. Their enthusiasm for keeping our environment clean was inspiring, and we are proud to support the next generation of environmental stewards!

March 29th-30th | Logandale Junior Ranger Day

On March 29th-30th, Nevada Outdoor School participated in Logandale Junior Ranger Day by hosting a Youth Helmet OHV Safety Booth at Logandale Trails. Our goal was to educate families on the importance of Ride Safe Ride Smart, emphasizing the necessity of wearing a helmet when operating any type of ATV or OHV. During the event, we successfully distributed approximately 40 helmets to children and engaged with 80-85 attendees. We also built valuable connections with the Logandale team, the Bureau of Land Management, and other organizations present, strengthening our network of outdoor safety advocates.

March 30th | Wilderness Warrior

The Wilderness Warrior Skills Workshop was a great success, with 25 participants attending the event. Two families traveled from Elko to take part in the experience. AmeriCorps Member Beau led the workshop, teaching knife safety, and by the end of the event, there were no injuries. Participants had the opportunity to unleash their creativity as they crafted impressive spears and traps, making the workshop both educational and engaging.

March | Elko Nature in My World

In March, Nevada Outdoor School brought the Nature in My World program to Elko County, delivering 16 lessons across six different schools. The Owl Pellet activity has been a huge hit among third-grade teachers, with most students excited to uncover and identify bones, while a few found the experience a bit too gross. First-grade lessons have also been very popular—not just with students and teachers, but also with our AmeriCorps Members, who count them among their favorites. Though the weather kept us indoors more than we would have liked, we are grateful for the flexibility to adapt our lessons for indoor learning when needed.

March | Winnemucca Nature in My World

In March, Nevada Outdoor School brought the Nature In My World program to classrooms in Winnemucca, though we had fewer lessons than usual this month. We worked with kindergarten, third, and fourth-grade students, with third grade being the most popular. In these lessons, students explored the fascinating world of animal adaptations, discovering how different species survive and thrive in their environments. Teachers continued to express their enthusiasm for the program, appreciating the engaging and educational experiences it provides for their students.

March | Elko Young Naturalists Club

In March, Nevada Outdoor School wrapped up the final session of the Young Naturalists Club, exploring plant life cycles, worms, and the science behind rainbows. The kindergarten through second-grade sessions were well attended, with up to 16 children, while the third through fifth-grade sessions were smaller, averaging around six students. Each lesson combined a learning component with a hands-on play portion, allowing students to apply their new knowledge in an engaging and interactive way. Fortunately, Friday weather was mostly cooperative, allowing us to hold lessons outdoors at Peace Park in Elko. While a few sessions had to be shortened due to weather, we were still able to provide meaningful and fun learning experiences for our young naturalists.

March | Winnemucca Nature Journaling

In March, Nevada Outdoor School brought the Nature Journaling program to Winnemucca classrooms, featuring the engaging Sound Map lesson. Teachers shared that this was one of their favorite lessons, and students absolutely loved it, requesting that we continue offering it in the future. The activity sparked plenty of laughter and fun while also helping students recognize the importance of sound in the natural world. Through this experience, they discovered how tuning out other senses can heighten their awareness of sound, deepening their connection to their surroundings.

Exploring Sand Mountain Recreation Area: A Desert Adventure

Nestled in the heart of northern Nevada, Sand Mountain Recreation Area is a must-visit destination for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers. This towering sand dune rises out of the high desert, offering a unique playground for adventure and a fascinating glimpse into the area’s natural history. Here’s what you need to know about Sand Mountain, from its recreational opportunities to its native plants and wildlife.

About Sand Mountain

Sand Mountain is a massive, crescent-shaped sand dune located about 25 miles east of Fallon, Nevada, along U.S. Highway 50, famously known as the “Loneliest Road in America.” The dune stretches approximately two miles long and rises over 600 feet, making it a standout natural feature in the arid Great Basin. It was formed by ancient Lake Lahontan, a massive inland sea that once covered much of Nevada during the Ice Age. Over time, the lake receded, leaving behind sand deposits that were shaped by wind into the dune we see today.

Recreational Activities

Sand Mountain is a haven for off-highway vehicle (OHV) enthusiasts. Its steep slopes and open terrain provide thrilling opportunities for dirt bikes, ATVs, dune buggies, and other OHVs. Visitors can enjoy:

OHV Riding: With its vast expanse of sand and challenging slopes, it’s a paradise for riders of all skill levels.

Camping: Primitive camping is available in designated areas, making it easy to extend your stay and enjoy the desert’s quiet beauty.

Sandboarding: For those who prefer a non-motorized adventure, the steep dunes are perfect for sandboarding.

Stargazing: The remote location and lack of light pollution make Sand Mountain a fantastic spot for stargazing.

Hiking and Photography: Explore the surrounding desert landscape and capture the stunning contrast of the dune against the rugged terrain.

Native Animals

The desert around Sand Mountain is home to a variety of wildlife adapted to the harsh environment. Some of the notable species include:

Desert Kangaroo Rats: Expert burrowers, these small rodents thrive in sandy areas.

Sidewinders (Rattlesnakes): A unique snake that moves sideways across the sand for better traction.

Kit Foxes: Small and elusive, these foxes are well-adapted to desert life.

Lizards: Including the Western Fence Lizard and the Zebra-tailed Lizard, which are commonly spotted in the area.

Birds of Prey: Hawks and owls are often seen hunting in the open desert.

Native Plants

While the sandy terrain may seem barren at first glance, the area supports a variety of desert plants that are uniquely adapted to survive in arid conditions:

Shadscale (Atriplex confertifolia): A salt-tolerant shrub that provides shelter and food for wildlife.

Indian Ricegrass (Achnatherum hymenoides): An important native grass that helps stabilize the sandy soil.

Fourwing Saltbush (Atriplex canescens): A resilient shrub with distinctive seed pods that serve as food for animals.

Desert Wildflowers: During the spring, occasional rains can bring blooms of wildflowers like Desert Marigolds and Sand Verbena, adding color to the landscape.

Best Season to Visit

While Sand Mountain can be visited year-round, the best times to explore are in the spring and fall. During these seasons, temperatures are more moderate, ranging from the 60s to 80s (Fahrenheit), making outdoor activities more enjoyable. Summer temperatures can soar above 100°F, and winter nights can be quite cold, so proper preparation is essential if visiting during these times.

When planning your trip to Sand Mountain, remember that this is a remote area with limited amenities. Bring plenty of water, sunscreen, and all the supplies you’ll need for a safe and enjoyable adventure. Be mindful of the environment and practice Leave No Trace principles to preserve the beauty of this unique destination for future generations.

Whether you’re seeking adrenaline-pumping OHV rides, serene camping under the stars, or a chance to connect with the unique flora and fauna of the Nevada desert, Sand Mountain Recreation Area offers something for everyone. Pack your gear and get ready to experience the beauty and excitement of this incredible natural wonder!

What's New at NOS! October 2024

October was a month full of outdoor adventures, creativity, and community connection! From pumpkin painting in Elko and Winnemucca to exploring the ghost town of Metropolis on a scenic hike, we had a blast bringing people together and encouraging the next generation to get outside. We also had the privilege of distributing OHV helmets to kids at Sand Mountain, promoting safety and adventure. And with a strong start to our in-school programming, we’re excited to continue helping kids spend more time outdoors, making memories, and discovering the wonders of nature. Here’s a look back at the incredible experiences that made October so special!

October 1st | New NOS Office!

We’re excited to announce that Nevada Outdoor School is moving into a new office after eight incredible years in Elko! Our growth in outdoor education programming has outgrown our old space, and this new location will allow us to expand our operations and create an inspiring environment for the community. Thank you for your support as we embark on this new chapter, and we look forward to welcoming you to our new home and continuing to inspire a love for the outdoors in northern Nevada!

October 3rd | Field Trip to Lamoille with EIAA

Nevada Outdoor School had their first field trip of the season with the Elko Institute for Academic Achievement on October 3rd! Kim, Megan, Toril, and Americorps member Nikkie, partnered with EIAA to take the kindergarten and third graders on an informational hike with lessons at the Marina afterward. Nevada Outdoor School presented two lessons for the kids. One lesson was on elk and the different attributes to help identify them. The kids got to feel and elk hide, learned about their antlers, and so much more! The second lesson was on Leave No Trace. The students learned how long it takes different materials to break down and the importance of keeping our environment clean and well taken care of so we may enjoy it for years to come!

Elko Program Coordinator, Kim showing EIAA students the path through the Lamoille Canyon that a glacier made, created a "U" crevice in the mountains. 

October 9th | Spring Creek Elementary 4th Grade Classes

On October 9th, Nevada Outdoor School experienced a busy day filled with back-to-back 4th grade classes. The focus of the lesson was on artifacts, where students learned about their importance and significance in understanding the past. They engaged in activities that involved drawing, labeling, and detailing artifacts, emulating the work of real archaeologists. The students explored the distinctions between artifacts and common objects, gaining insight into what qualifies an item as an artifact. Additionally, they learned about the differences between archaeologists and paleontologists, enriching their understanding of these fascinating fields.

ECSD 4th grade students learning about artifacts. 

October 19th | Pumpkin Painting in Winnemucca

The Pumpkin Painting event on October 19th at Vesco Park in Winnemucca went really well, with only three pumpkins left over due to high participation. Zoey, along with Beau and Ash, hosted the event, engaging with both the children and adults who attended. In total, 29 people participated, evenly split between kids and grown-ups. They had two Jack Skellington pumpkin paints, but a crowd favorite was an elderly woman who created two portraits on her pumpkin—a jack-o'-lantern face and an adorable cat!

AmeriCorps members, Beau and Zoey showing their painted pumpkins. 

October 23rd | Pumpkin Painting in Elko

On October 23rd, the Elko NOS office put on an all-inclusive night of Halloween creative fun for all ages! With over 90 people in attendance, all ages participated in some pumpkin painting creativity. There were pumpkins decorated as candy corn, spooky eyeballs, creepy kitties, and even glow-in-the-dark neon bones! It was a beautiful sunset evening at the Elko Peace Park; painting pumpkins and sipping tasty hot chocolate!

Toril, Christina, Jamie, Kim, and Nikkie with Pumpkin Painting Participants.

October 25th | Metropolis Ghost Town Adventure Trek

On October 25th, our community embarked on an unforgettable trip to the ghost town of Metropolis to celebrate Nevada Day. With 23 guests, we explored the remnants of this one up and coming settlement, including the Lincoln School, the cemetery, still in use today, and the hotel, each telling stories of the past. Our enthusiastic team consisted of NOS staff Meghan, Nikkie, and Toril, along with AmeriCorps members Jamie, Nikkie, and Christina, who guided the group through this fascinating history. We were thrilled to partner with D'ette from the Northeastern Nevada Museum, who shared her insights and expertise, making our journey both educational and memorable.

Aerial view of the remnants of the Metropolis school. 

October 26th | Junior Ranger Day

On the 26th, AmeriCorps members Jamie, Nikkie, and Christine went to the California Trail Interpretive Center (CTIC) for Junior Ranger Day where we set up our Leave No Trace table with activities like Trash Timeline, and key chain making. The CTIC had many wonderful booths including Origami, Bat Masks, Coloring Table, Ghosts and a Firefighter stand. There were around 30 people who came to NOS’s table to learn about how long certain trash takes to completely decompose into the earth as well as ways that we can keep our earth clean for animals and ourselves.

October 26th | Sand Mountain

On October 26th, Nevada Outdoor School had an impactful two days at Sand Mountain, where we distributed helmets to over 100 kids and provided essential ATV safety training through our skills rider course. Families from near and far visited us to learn more about NOS's mission, and many parents expressed gratitude for our efforts to promote safe riding practices. By the end of the event, we were thrilled to see a noticeable increase in kids wearing helmets, making the weekend a rewarding success in raising awareness and fostering safety in the ATV community!

October 28th | Nature Journaling in Winnemucca

On October 28th Nevada Outdoor School started a Nature Journaling program with Winnemucca youth. The kids had the opportunity to creatively decorate their journal. The kids were also able to describe and draw the card prompts that we handed out to them, For example something spiky. Due to weather the kids had to look around the room and describe something spiky to draw in their journal. Overall the kids were great listeners and had fun drawing and creating their own journal.

October 29th | ECSD Career Fair

On October 29th, Elko NOS staff Kim and Meghan, along with AmeriCorps members Jamie, Christina, and Nikkie set up a booth at the ECSD career fair. They were able to reach over 300 students from seven different schools and participated in mock interviews for BBYA (Battle Born Youth Challenge Academy) for potential jobs through the AmeriCorps program. 

AmeriCorps members Christina and Jamie, along with Director of Programs, Meghan at NOS's booth at the ECSD Career Fair.

October 31st | Trailing Treat

On Halloween Day, Nevada Outdoor School hosted a Trailing Treat event in Winnemucca at Water Canyon. There were 4 stations placed up the trail and were manned by myself, Nikkie, Beau, and Stephen. Families walked up the trail and got candy from each station. The weather was a little chilly but the hike kept everybody warm enough to enjoy candy.

Participants at Trailing Treat.

October 2024 | Elko Nature in My World Programming

The Nevada Outdoor School Elko office started our Nature in My World (NIMW) lessons on October 14th. We have loved being in the schools and teaching our NIMW lessons. So far, we have taught 22 lessons and have increased our TSO. One of our 4th-grade classes wrote stories about what they thought happened at the dig sites during our archeology lesson and sent them into our office to read. This was a huge highlight of our year so far! We are enjoying getting to know the students and teachers!

EIAA Students Learning about Elk.

October 2024 | Winnemucca Nature in My World Programming

This past month, our Winnemucca office engaged with 465 students across three counties, bringing lessons in outdoor education and environmental awareness to local schools. From kindergarten through 8th grade, students participated in hands-on activities like NIMW (Nature in My World) and nature journaling, sparking curiosity and excitement about the natural world. It was inspiring to see students so eager to learn, and we look forward to more educational visits in the future!

Orovada 3rd Grade Learning about Owl Pellets.