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…
Results from National Gap Year Survey Show Positive Outcomes
The American Gap Association (AGA) released a report containing results from a new survey on gap year participation among college-age students.
Educator Expedition: La Patagonia Desconocida – The Unknown Patagonia
Educator Expedition: La Patagonia Desconocida - The Unknown Patagonia
The Ethics of Cheap: Why You Don’t Need the Newest Gear
The Ethics of Cheap: Why You Don't Need the Newest Gear
How You Can Be More Sustainable Every Day
Get some inspiration for sustainable practices from each of our locations around the world.
How to Make Your Own Instant Backpacking Meals
You can make your own low-cost & lightweight instant backpacking meals using items from your local grocery store.
Keep Calm and Medic On: How a WEMT Course Can Transform Your Backcountry Experience
Keep Calm and Medic On: How a WEMT Course Can Transform Your Backcountry Experience
Smart Ways to Protect Yourself from the Sun
Learn ways to protect yourself from sunburn and how to treat it
21 Quotes Guaranteed to Make You Crave the Outdoors
21 Quotes Guaranteed to Make You Crave the Outdoors
