NOLS Blog
Case Study: Embedded Tick while Backpacking
Photo by Eva Darron The setting The Setting: You’re on day 6 of a week-long backpacking trip on the Appalachian Trail in New York. The last few days have been beautiful, and you’re so glad to be enjoying this time outside. You and your friends decide it’s time for a break, so you sit down to…
Instructor Spotlight: Caeden Greene
A NOLS experience can truly be a transformative experience for a young person’s life, and that was certainly ...
Case Study: Jellyfish Sting in Paradise
Photo by Molly Hagbrand The setting You and your friend are enjoying some early morning sunshine and perfect ...
Through the Diamond Heart of Brazil: Our Next Alumni Adventure!
Lush valleys, waterfalls, ancient ruins, and diamonds can all be found in Brazil’s Chapada Diamantina National Park, the backdrop for one of NOLS’ newest alumni trips. Murilo Bellese and Moaci Dantas, the trip’s primary architects, share a little more about the trip and what makes it special. Looking out over Chapada Diamantina National Park. Photo…
Kickstart your Summer: A NOLS-Inspired Guide to Outdoor Adventure
Summer is a season of possibility—new places to explore, skills to sharpen, and friendships to deepen. At NOLS, we believe that thoughtful preparation, intentional choices, and community connection lay the foundation for safe, rewarding, and meaningful adventures. Whether you’re planning a long expedition or a weekend hike, here are key ideas to guide your summer…
Rothberg-Birdwhistell Exploration Fund: Expedition Isla Wager y Mas
With dreams of personal adventures in Patagonian Chile, Dave Watson asked Nacho Aguilera and me to join him paddling in the archipelago south of the Golfo De Penas. Almost a year before we put our paddles in the water, we started talking and planning. Tasks were delegated to be ready to begin our expedition in…
NOLS 1965 • 2025 • 2085
NOLS winter camping in the 1970s. It was December 1973, in the midst of a two-week winter course somewhere in the Winds. With our 70+-pound packs, we used seal skins on our wooden Army-issue skis to ascend a steep ridge. The day was clear and very cold. The snow was almost to our knees, as…
How to Make Deluxe Mac and Cheese (and Fried Macs too!) in the Backcountry
Photo by Jordan Cranch Cheesy pasta is a staple for any expedition. This recipe for macaroni and cheese, made deluxe by the addition of butter and dried veggies, is hot and delicious and transitions well from the backcountry to your kitchen at home. Be sure to check out the recipe for NOLS Famous Fried Macs!…
Navigating the Path: the U.S. NOLS Instructor in Training Program
2024 US Instructor In Training Cohort at the start of their instructor course: top, left to right, NOLS field instructor Jerick Lee, NOLS field instructor Elsie Freland, Matt Medina, Dane Gare, Amber Davis, and bottom left to right, Alison Sikowitz, Vicky Albores, Yessi Aguilar, and Jianna Kaufman The U.S. NOLS Instructor-in-Training (IIT) Program is a…
Donation of $4 Million Paves the Way for Innovation and Growth at NOLS
Thanks to three anonymous donors, NOLS has secured $4 million in new support. These gifts will be used to match every dollar donated up to $4 million.
Cultivating a Risk Management Culture in Outdoor Organizations: The Importance of Sound Incident Reporting
Enhance your outdoor organization's risk culture with NOLS. Learn the importance of sound incident reporting and effective risk management processes for safer, enriching adventures.
Securing Gap Year Scholarships: Financial Aid Opportunities at NOLS
Explore gap year scholarships, financial aid, and other funding options. Invest in your future today with NOLS.
Rock Climbing Gear Recommendations from NOLS Instructors
Get rock climbing gear recommendations from NOLS instructors! Learn what gear we use and our tips for caring for our equipment.
Case Study: Hyperglycemia in the Mountains
Test your wilderness medicine skills with this case study! You are guiding a 7-day wilderness trip. One of your participants, Stan, is an insulin-dependent diabetic. At 5am, Stan's tentmate wakes you up saying, 'Stan is really sick.'
Beyond Rock Climbing Techniques: Building Leadership and Teamwork with NOLS
Learn rock climbing techniques, leadership, and teamwork through trust, self-awareness, and effective communication with NOLS.
Gap Year Travel Programs: Blending Adventure with Experiential Education
NOLS gap year travel programs blend adventure, experiential education, leadership, environmentalism, and cultural immersion for a life-changing experience.
How to Apply to College After a Gap Year: Enhance Your Submission through Experience
Learn how to apply to college after a gap year with NOLS for a standout application showcasing growth and skills.
Rock Climbing for Beginners: Learn Rock Climbing Basics with NOLS
Rock Climbing for Beginners with NOLS - Learn the basics and embrace personal growth, environmental stewardship, and leadership while climbing in breathtaking locations.
Scaling New Heights: NOLS Outdoor Rock Climbing Course Insights
Explore NOLS Outdoor Rock Climbing Courses, where you'll gain essential climbing skills, develop leadership abilities, foster environmental stewardship, and immerse yourself in breathtaking landscapes!
Top 10 Best Gap Year Programs for Outdoor Enthusiasts
Discover the best Gap Year Programs for Outdoor Enthusiasts! From East Africa's cultural immersion to the PNW's wilderness skill development, embark on unforgettable adventures with NOLS.
