Field Trips
TINS field-based programs are ever-expanding. We offer several nature-based, outdoor learning experiences that can be adapted to meet the needs of any K-12 classroom, and are tied into the Next Generation Science Standards adopted by both California and Nevada. Our field trips connect students to nature through the place-based learning aspect of outdoor education. Students who participate in our field-based programs have a greater appreciation and understanding of our local environment. We often collaborate with other organizations and scientists to develop and deliver the highest quality learning experiences possible. If there is a topic not listed that you are interested in, please contact us and we will do our best to provide a field trip that works for you!
For inquires, registering your class, or more information, please contact Sarah Hockensmith at 775.298.0067.
General Nature Walks
K–12th Grade
Our nature walks can be designed and adapted to fit the interests of any classroom. We have crafted this program to allow us to take classes to any natural area and discuss the natural history topic of your choice; some example topics include flora and fauna, birds, bugs, winter wildlife, and any other Tahoe-related natural history topic.
Bird Banding Field Trips
3rd–12th Grade
Our bird banding field trips teach students about local research on resident and migrating birds at our bird banding stations, bird identification—including birds' size, sex, and overall health, and other topics teachers desire such as the physics of bird flight and an in depth look at feathers. These field trips give students the unique opportunity to experience field research as it is happening. Students also experience live, wild birds up-close as they learn about our research programs' connection to continent-wide bird banding efforts. Through these connections, students learn the importance of assessing bird banding data to enhance the surrounding habitat for bird populations, as well as the impact of human development in regards to land management.
To express your interest in participating in bird banding field trips scheduled for 2024 and to receive updates on field trip sign-ups, please submit the provided Google Form.
Geology of the Sierra Nevada
4th–8th Grade
Geology of the Sierra Nevada allows students to experience the processes that formed the Sierra Nevada and the Lake Tahoe region. The field trip starts with a brief presentation on the formation of the Sierra Nevada before heading to various locations in the field to see how glaciers helped shape the current topography, as well as evidence of other geologic processes.
Currently available for field trips to locations in Truckee and Emerald Bay.
Winter Wildlife Survival Snowshoe Trek
3rd–12th Grade
Winter Wildlife Survival Snowshoe Treks are designed to completely immerse students in the winter-based content they are learning—right in the snow. The wildlife covered ranges from winter mammals to birds, amphibians, and more. Students learn about survival techniques, adaptations, migration, hibernation, and many other winter survival strategies.
Tahoe’s Forest Ecology
4th–12th Grade
This 2-3 hour field exploration focuses on Tahoe trees, both evergreen and deciduous, and their roles within Tahoe forest ecosystems. We discuss the topics of tree disease, life cycles, identification and parts of a tree, relationships between trees and other forest life, and how local wildlife depend on the forests. Along the way we will play games, utilize art to practice identifying species, and use our senses to explore the forest. This trip can be held year-round, and may take place on provided snowshoes when conditions allow.
These field trips can also be held in partnership with the Sugar Pine Foundation to include a tree planting aspect during parts of the year when conditions allow.
Sagehen Outdoor Education
The Sagehen Outdoor Education Program was founded and organized by three Truckee-Tahoe Unified School District teachers, the Berkeley Natural History Museums, and Sagehen Creek Field Station, just north of Truckee. The program began in 2007 and now serves approximately 350 students from five schools every year. Program operation assistance is provided by parent volunteers, and the lessons are taught by TINS and Sierra Watershed Education Partnerships (SWEP).
The students attend either a 2-day or 3-day overnight program at the field station in the Fall. In the Spring, all 5th graders attend a 1-day program.
Students learn a variety of skills and gain knowledge about many different topics. Lessons include team-building, local ecosystems, flora and fauna of the Sierra Nevada, migration, macro-invertebrates, water quality, plant and animal identification.