Thanks to a fascinating new series of interpretive programs, you’ll never look at the beautiful Spring Mountains National Recreation Area – better known to southern Nevada natives as Mt. Charleston – the same way again. The programs, recently launched by the U.S. Forest Service, offer visitors a new perspective on the science, history and culture of the area through an assortment of events and activities geared to various age and skill levels. We’re talking guided walks, day hikes and evening programs that put all five senses to work and, with a little luck, foster a real connection between visitors and the land. Children will enjoy the Junior Rangers Program, where they can learn about caring for the forest and staying safe doing it, and the whole family will love the fresh air, exercise and new-found sense of Spring Mountains understanding. Get the program...

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The Tahoe Rim Trail Association (TRTA) will host the annual Thru Hike of 2009, a 15-day backpacking trip beginning July 25-26 and ending Aug. 8-9, on the spectacular trail that encircles Lake Tahoe.

The backpacking trip on the 165-mile Tahoe Rim Trail will involve two groups of 15 people, each with two or three experienced guides. The hike will offer remarkable views while also serving as TRTA’s largest fundraising event. Contributions from each backpacking participant fund the TRTA’s education, outreach opportunities and related programs.

Registration is available online at www.tahoerimtrail.org. For more information or questions, contact Emily Williams at (775) 298-0231 or emilyw@tahoerimtrail.org.

With or without an ATV or customized dune buggy, get out and experience the Amargosa Dunes. The five square mile area of sand dunes located just off Highway 95 is an ideal playground if you have the “toys”. For those who prefer hiking or walking, you can still enjoy the beauty of this geological wonder in the Amargosa Desert area of southern Nevada.

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Former NBC Nightly News anchor Tom Brokaw is planning a trip along US Highway 50 beginning this spring. The trip will start in Maryland and continue through the country with some stops along the way. Highway 50 travels through Nevada and the Lake Tahoe area before ending up in Sacramento.

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I talked a few weeks ago about taking a glider ride out of the Carson Valley and over Lake Tahoe, and now I want to mention that out of that same airport (Minden/Tahoe) you can also take the ultimate plunge—a skydiving trip.

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