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.…
Getting Ready: Mental and Physical Prep for My Gap Year
Here's what one grad did to prepare for her gap year expedition in Patagonia with NOLS.
7 Ways to Make Coffee While Camping
Need coffee to function? Here are the seven best ways to make your favorite drink while you're out in the great outdoors.
Enjoying the Tiny Life
Get the scoop on what it's like to live in a tiny house—and why you might want to give it a try.
On the Creation of Bears Ears National Monument
The importance of the 2016 designation of Bears Ears National Monument.
How To Keep Your Feet Warm
Advice from the pros on how to take care of your feet when they get cold.
Potential Energy
NOLS alumni Rachel Dranoff explains how to harness the potential energy of a NOLS course.
An Astronaut Candidate’s Take on Goals and Leadership
Astronaut in training Shawna Pandya talks to us about pursuing big goals.
How Can I Support You? The Power of Expedition Behavior
“How can I support you?” It was maybe the best question I had ever been asked. It was expedition behavior in a sentence. Read more from NOLSie and writer Carolyn Highland
Preparing for a Miracle: WFR Training in Family Emergencies
Two parents tell the story of their family's worst day—and the happy ending that came as a result of being prepared.
Climbing Higher: The New NOLS Look
For the past year, we've been developing a new look and logo for NOLS. I'm glad to share the behind-the-scenes action that created this look and what's ahead.
2016 Holiday Gift Guide
Whether you're shopping for your favorite sustainability nerd or a backcountry fashionista, here are some gift ideas for anyone on your list.
