NOLS Blog
Instructor Spotlight: Caeden Greene
A NOLS experience can truly be a transformative experience for a young person’s life, and that was certainly the case for field instructor Caeden Greene. In high school, Caeden embarked on a 30-day Waddington Range Mountaineering Expedition (WAD), long known as one of NOLS’ most rigorous courses. The WAD expedition had such a profound effect…
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 ...
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…
Rothberg-Birdwhistell Exploration Fund: Mountaineering in Rwenzori Mountains
This 15-day expedition began with an interest to take on a challenge we had not encountered before. One day, after working a contract in East Africa, James “KG” Kagambi, Evan Kuria, and I began discussing enhancing our outdoor skills. Evan suggested we explore the Rwenzori Mountains, the nearest mountains with easy access to a glacier.…
Wilderness First Aid vs. Wilderness First Responder: Choosing the Right Training for You
Understand the 'Wilderness First Aid vs Wilderness First Responder' debate to choose the best course for your outdoor medical training needs.
Case Study: Falling Through the Ice
What would you do to help a patient with hypothermia while winter camping?
Backcountry Splitboarding Gear, Techniques, and Training with NOLS
Explore the world of backcountry splitboarding with NOLS! Explore gear, techniques, and backcountry travel for an exhilarating journey beyond the beaten path.
Snowboarding for Beginners: Tips, Terms, and Techniques to Get You Started
Dive into snowboarding for beginners and learn fundamentals, terminology, and gear essentials.
‘Society of the Snow’ and Roberto Canessa’s Life-Changing Experience
NOLS had the opportunity to chat with Roberto Canessa, one of the survivors of the Andes plane crash in 1978.
Skiing for Beginners: What to Know at the Start of Your Skiing Journey
Learn the essentials of skiing for beginners. Your guide to skiing terms, gear, and techniques for backcountry adventures.
Skiing vs. Snowboarding: Which one is for you?
Dive into the skiing vs. snowboarding debate and explore the unique challenges, rewards, and equipment differences between these popular winter activities.
Case Study: Slip Sliding Away
A skier hits a terrain feature and goes flying. They land hard and don't immediately reply when you ask if they are ok. How do you respond?
Sea Kayak Self-Rescue Techniques: Essential Guidance for Sea Kayakers
Develop essential kayak self-rescue skills with NOLS – from wet exits to advanced techniques. Gain confidence for your next coastal adventure.
Sea Kayaking for Beginners with NOLS: Essential Tips and Techniques
Sea Kayaking for Beginners: Learn essential tips and techniques, from paddling skills to coastal navigation.
