Trail Trainings Workshops

The Nevada Division of Outdoor Recreation (NDOR), in partnership with Sierra Trail Works, is excited to announce Trail Skills Trainings coming in Spring 2026. Through the Recreational Trails Program, we will be able to offer an Introduction to Trailbuilding course, a Trail Crew Leadership training, and a Trail Planning, Design, and Layout course. There will also be opportunities for First Aid/CPR training and USFS Chainsaw certification.

NDOR is thrilled to provide these opportunities at no cost to trail enthusiasts across Nevada.

Who Can Attend
These trainings are open to anyone, especially those who are involved with volunteer trail organizations, individuals interested in trail crew positions, and land managers who oversee trail projects.

Introduction to Trailbuilding

Dates: Saturday, May 9th, 2026

Times: 8:30 am- 4:30 pm

Location: Fire Station 11 Community Room, 7105 Mae Anne Ave, Reno, NV 89523 and Sierra Vista Park.

This is a one-day training opportunity for those who are interested in learning more about the art and science of modern trail construction and stewardship. Snacks and drinks will be provided. This session will introduce basic trail concepts, including essential terminology and trail classifications. Participants will learn the fundamentals of sustainable trail design, how to read terrain, and how natural forces influence trail longevity. The training will also cover the safe use of basic trail tools, introductory construction techniques, common maintenance needs, and strategies for minimizing environmental impacts.

Sign up using the Google Form here

Trail Crew Leadership Training

Dates: Saturday, May 16th, 2026 (classroom) Sunday, May 17th, 2026 (field).

Times: 8:30 am- 4:30 pm (both classroom and field day)

Location: Carson City, NV. Classroom training will be at the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) Sierra Front/Stillwater field office (5665 Morgan Mill Road, Carson City, NV 89701). Field training will be at Ambrose Carson River Natural Area.

The two-day Trail Crew Leadership training includes both classroom and field components, with snacks and drinks provided during the classroom portion. This course focuses on preparing participants to effectively lead trail crews. Topics include understanding the responsibilities of a crew leader, planning safe and productive workdays, giving clear safety briefings, and managing risk in outdoor work settings. Participants will learn leadership and communication techniques, how to work successfully with volunteers and mixed-skill groups, and how to plan projects, sequence tasks, and ensure quality work. We are excited to be partnering with the Tahoe Area Mountain Bike Association for this training!

To participate in this training, individuals must already have volunteered or worked with a known trail organization/land manager OR completed the introduction to trails training (Saturday, May 9th, 2026 8:30 am-4:30 pm in Reno, NV).

Sign up using the Google Form here.

An additional Crew Lead Training may be offered in August or September depending on demand for the training.

Trail Design, Layout, and Planning

Dates: Friday, June 12th, 2026 (classroom) Saturday, June 13th, 2026 (field)

Times: 8:30 am- 4:30 pm

Location: Carson City, NV. Classroom portion TBD.

The two-day trails design, layout and planning course includes both classroom and field components, with snacks and drinks provided during the classroom portion. This session is geared towards land managers and others responsible for planning sustainable, long-term trail systems. The training will be held in Carson City, NV.

Sign up using the Google Form here.

Trails Technician 1 Certification Opportunity

Participants who complete all three courses will have the option to take the nationally recognized Trails Technician 1 test, and with a passing score, receive certification. Those who have taken one or more of these courses in the past may still qualify on a case by case basis. Testing and certification fees will be covered for qualifying attendees. This exam is offered through the National Occupational Competency Testing Institute (NOCTI) and was developed in partnership with the Northwest Arkansas Community College. It is recognized as a credible and respected certification by trail professionals. Additional information will be available as the training dates approaches. The certification exam will be offered after the completion of the Trail Planning course which should end around 2 pm on Saturday June 13th, 2026.

Sawyer Training and Certification

Dates: Friday, June 19th, 2026 (classroom day) Saturday & Sunday, June 20th-21st, 2026 (field day)

Times: TBD (both classroom and field days)

Location: Markleeville, CA
NDOR is also collaborating with the U.S. Forest Service Carson Ranger District to offer a 3-day Sawyer Certification Training in June 2026. This training will take place at the U.S. Forest Service Markleeville Guard Station in Markleeville, California. Participants should plan to commute daily or camp at designated sites for the duration of the course. Dispersed camping is available. Field work will occur on the Charity Valley Trail, and instruction will be led by Ty Dayberry, Trail Manager for the U.S. Forest Service and U.S. Forest Service staff. To participate in the sawyer training certification, individuals must have completed a CPR/First Aid certification course that is American Heart Association or American Red Cross credited.

CPR/First Aid Training

The U.S. Forest Service does require all trail workers managed by the USFS to maintain a valid CPR/First Aid certification. This training can be up to 2-days and participants will receive a valid First Aid/CPR certificate. Dates for training will be announced soon.