Join plant ecologist Molly Ferry for a guided 2–3 mile hike through Washoe Meadows in South Lake Tahoe. Explore native plants, meadow herbs, and understory flora while learning from Molly’s work updating the classic Plants of the Tahoe Basin (Graf, 1999).

Wildflower Wednesdays are focused surveys of specific areas where rare or otherwise noteworthy species have been previously collected or reported. The goal is to assess the current status and ideally confirm the continued presence of these species as part of an effort to update Michael Graf’s 1999 Wildflower Guide. This may mean bypassing other interesting flowers to prioritize reaching key sites.

What to Bring: Water, sunscreen, layered clothing, sturdy shoes, and a snack.

Meeting Point: This Google Maps location off of Mountain Meadow Dr.

No registration - just show up on time.

Questions? Please email Molly at ecobotany@gmail.com

Join longtime Incline Village resident and three decade biology professor, Suzanne Gollery for a 3-hour walk along one of her favorite local trails—the Incline Flume. This mild, traversing hike winds through open, south-facing forest where flowering shrubs and wildflowers are expected to be in full bloom, even early in the season. Creek crossings and a mix of terrain will offer a variety of plant life to observe.

This is a great opportunity for all levels of plant lovers to explore a mid-elevation habitat with an experienced naturalist who knows the trail intimately.

Join plant ecologist Molly Ferry for a guided 2–3 mile hike through Angora Burn Area in South Lake Tahoe. Explore native plants, meadow herbs, and understory flora while learning from Molly’s work updating the classic Plants of the Tahoe Basin (Graf, 1999).

Friday Flower Forays are more flexible in their objectives compared to Wildflower Wednesdays, aiming to cast a wider net and take in as many interesting plants as possible. Think of them as more traditional wildflower walks with a continued effort to update Michael Graf’s 1999 Wildflower Guide.

What to Bring: Water, sunscreen, layered clothing, sturdy shoes, and a snack.

Meeting Point: Please Park and meet at this Google Maps link located off of Panther Dr.

No registration - just show up on time.

Questions? Please email Molly at ecobotany@gmail.com

Every Thursday in May through the first week in June, TINS will host a bird walk at the Village Green in Incline Village NV.

Join us as we take a leisurely stroll to observe the numerous bird species that are returning or migrating through Tahoe this spring. We will identify the songs, calls, and field marks of birds while walking through different habitats including riparian areas, streams, and through pine forests. These Village green Bird Walks are open to birders of all experience levels.

Bring your binoculars. No registration required.. just show up! We will meet at the Aspen Grove Parking lot.

In partnership with the Sierra Club and Sierra State Parks Foundation.

Spring is here—come stop and smell the flowers! Join local naturalist Bob Sweatt for a guided walk through Washoe Meadows State Park as we search for a variety of wildflowers, including the beautiful Sand Lily.

• Difficulty: Easy and flat terrain

• What to Bring: Comfortable walking shoes, water, sunscreen, snacks, binoculars, and any naturalist guides you enjoy

• Registration Required: Due to limited capacity, registration is required. Each registration is for one participant only. A signed waiver is also required and will be provided upon registration.

About Bob Sweatt:
Bob is a retired photography teacher with a deep love for nature. He enjoys birding, walking, and especially searching for and photographing wildflowers. Leading wildflower walks and sharing his knowledge with others is one of his greatest passions.

Carpooling Encouraged:
Parking is limited, so please carpool if you know others attending.

Ready to kick off your wildflower adventure? Join us for a fun-filled ramble along the Lower Sagehen Creek trail, just north of Truckee. This easy, mostly flat 5-mile loop will likely be the lowest-elevation hike of our Tahoe Wildflower Big Year.

We’ll take our time exploring the diverse wildflower wonderland, with a special eye out for the stunning bloom of Camas Lilies at the end of the trail. As we stroll through different habitats, you’ll find a variety of blooms along the way.

We also want to thank the Tahoe Truckee Community Foundation for funding this free hike for the public. Please register below!

***NOTE: This event is FULL but cancellations do happen. Join our waitlist below:

Every Thursday in May through the first week in June, TINS will host a bird walk at the Village Green in Incline Village NV.

Join us as we take a leisurely stroll to observe the numerous bird species that are returning or migrating through Tahoe this spring. We will identify the songs, calls, and field marks of birds while walking through different habitats including riparian areas, streams, and through pine forests. These Village green Bird Walks are open to birders of all experience levels.

Bring your binoculars. No registration required.. just show up! We will meet at the Aspen Grove Parking lot.

Occuring the first four Wednesdays in May 2025, during this series, participants will learn how to recognize Tahoe birds by their songs and calls. This series helps participants to know exactly what to listen for and how to tell one bird from another.

Class Itinerary

This event fills up quickly, so be sure to register today!

Join us for a leisurely walk in beautiful Martis Valley as we search for early-season wildflower blooms. The exact location within Martis Valley is still to be determined, but we’ll be exploring areas of Great Basin flora.

Led by Steve Matson, an exceptional botanist and excursion leader, this outing promises not only scenic views but also a rich sampling of botanical insights. Whether you're a seasoned plant lover or just curious, expect a morning filled with discovery, learning, and the vibrant colors of spring.

Max 15 participants. This hike is co-sponsored by the Tahoe Chapter of the California Native Plant Society. Steve will reach out with more details a few days before the walk. Register below.

Every Thursday in May through the first week in June, TINS will host a bird walk at the Village Green in Incline Village NV.

Join us as we take a leisurely stroll to observe the numerous bird species that are returning or migrating through Tahoe this spring. We will identify the songs, calls, and field marks of birds while walking through different habitats including riparian areas, streams, and through pine forests. These Village green Bird Walks are open to birders of all experience levels.

Bring your binoculars. No registration required.. just show up! We will meet at the Aspen Grove Parking lot.

Occuring the first four Wednesdays in May 2025, during this series, participants will learn how to recognize Tahoe birds by their songs and calls. This series helps participants to know exactly what to listen for and how to tell one bird from another.

Class Itinerary

This event fills up quickly, so be sure to register today!

Every Thursday in May through the first week in June, TINS will host a bird walk at the Village Green in Incline Village Nevada.

Join us as we take a leisurely stroll to observe the numerous bird species that are returning or migrating through Tahoe this spring. We will identify the songs, calls, and field marks of birds while walking through different habitats including riparian areas, streams, and through pine forests. These Village green Bird Walks are open to birders of all experience levels.

Bring your binoculars. No registration required.. just show up! We will meet at the Aspen Grove Parking lot.

Occuring the first four Wednesdays in May 2025, during this series, participants will learn how to recognize Tahoe birds by their songs and calls. This series helps participants to know exactly what to listen for and how to tell one bird from another.

Class Itinerary

This event fills up quickly, so be sure to register today!

Every Thursday in May through the first week in June, TINS will host a bird walk at the Village Green in Incline Village Nevada.

Join us as we take a leisurely stroll to observe the numerous bird species that are returning or migrating through Tahoe this spring. We will identify the songs, calls, and field marks of birds while walking through different habitats including riparian areas, streams, and through pine forests. These Village green Bird Walks are open to birders of all experience levels.

Bring your binoculars. No registration required.. just show up! We will meet at the Aspen Grove Parking lot.

Occuring the first four Wednesdays in May 2025, during this series, participants will learn how to recognize Tahoe birds by their songs and calls. This series helps participants to know exactly what to listen for and how to tell one bird from another.

Class Itinerary

This event fills up quickly, so be sure to register today!

Every Thursday in May through the first week in June, TINS will host a bird walk at the Village Green in Incline Village NV.

Join us as we take a leisurely stroll to observe the numerous bird species that are returning or migrating through Tahoe this spring. We will identify the songs, calls, and field marks of birds while walking through different habitats including riparian areas, streams, and through pine forests. These Village green Bird Walks are open to birders of all experience levels.

Bring your binoculars. No registration required.. just show up! We will meet at the Aspen Grove Parking lot.

Join TINS as we celebration Earth Day! This free community event takes place in the Village at Palisades Tahoe from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., and gives kids and adults the opportunity to learn about recycling, composting, alternative energy, and sustainability through hands-on activities the whole family can enjoy. Plus, don't miss hours of free live music by local bands.

This event is a community tradition to learn about sustainable products and services offered by local organizations and businesses, meet with local area nonprofits that share Earth Day values, as well as showcasing local entertainment. Our goal is to connect the community with the people and resources found in our region who foster innovation, initiate change and ultimately implement an equitable partnership for a green planet.

Click HERE to learn more. 

Presented in collaboration with the Sierra Club at the South Lake Tahoe Library, Join Will Richardson from TINS as he talks about bunnies.

Rabbits and Hares occupy a central ecological role between vegetation structure and predators, yet almost no attention has been paid to their status and distribution in Tahoe! The Tahoe Institute for Natural Sciences aims to bridge this information gap. Since 2010 they have been studying White-tailed Jackrabbits, a species that had not been formally documented in the region in many decades, and more recently expanded to include Snowshoe Hares. Join us to hear from TINS Co-founder and Executive Director Will Richardson on his experience leading these studies and what they have found! Discussion topics include life history, population characteristics, interesting conservation genetics, curious range shifts, scary infectious diseases, and relationships to predators!

Cost: Free

Celebrate Earth Week by joining us for this FREE community festival!

Place: Lake Tahoe Community College location, 1 College Drive, South Lake Tahoe, CA 96150

Earth Day is an annual event created to celebrate the planet's environment and raise public awareness about a variety of environmental factors. TINS will be tabling at the South Lake Tahoe Earth Day, so please stop by and say hello!

Click here to learn more and see the schedule of events.

Volunteer and Help TINS Raise $20,000+

We are excited to announce that TINS has been selected as the 2025 Nonprofit Partner for Rubicon Pizza at Northstar Village. Recipients of this partnership have received over $20,000 for in support of their organization's mission and we think we can bring in even more with your help!

Each Saturday during the ski season, a pizza cart will be set-up in the Northstar Village where our volunteers will sell slices and share information about TINS. Profits from the pizza cart and tips will go directly to support TINS' mission of advancing the natural history, ecological, and conservation knowledge of the Tahoe region through science, education, and outreach.

You can make a difference by volunteering!

We need at least two volunteers each Saturday and a few extra days during the holidays. Everyone is welcome to volunteer (so bring your family and friends) and training will be provided. All you need to bring is a smile! Volunteers will set up a small table with information about TINS and Rubicon Pizza will provide all the gear needed to sell slices. The cart will open 11:30 am-3:30 pm.

We have heard your requests for more opportunities to volunteer and this is a great way to help out TINS, share your passion, and meet some new friends. Please check out our Sign-up Genius form see if there is a date that you can help. If you would like to volunteer for a date that is full, or have any questions, please email me (jennie@tinsweb.org). Thank you in advance for your support!

Click Here to Volunteer

Are floating bodies a mystery in the Lake? Are beavers truly native to the region? Are wolves coming to the Basin? Do all bears hibernate in Tahoe? It’s time to separate fact from fiction and uncover the truth behind some of Lake Tahoe’s myths and legends!

Join us for a fun and informative evening with guest speaker Sarah Hockensmith from the Tahoe Institute for Natural Science (TINS). Sarah will take us on a journey through Tahoe's fascinating history, unique geology, and diverse flora and fauna. We'll dive deep into the myths and misconceptions surrounding the Lake Tahoe Basin and the surrounding Sierra Nevada and Carson Range ecosystems.

This free event is proudly sponsored by TINS and the Washoe County Library System. Come curious, and leave enlightened as we explore, debunk, and celebrate the natural wonders of Tahoe!

Volunteer and Help TINS Raise $20,000+

We are excited to announce that TINS has been selected as the 2025 Nonprofit Partner for Rubicon Pizza at Northstar Village. Recipients of this partnership have received over $20,000 for in support of their organization's mission and we think we can bring in even more with your help!

Each Saturday during the ski season, a pizza cart will be set-up in the Northstar Village where our volunteers will sell slices and share information about TINS. Profits from the pizza cart and tips will go directly to support TINS' mission of advancing the natural history, ecological, and conservation knowledge of the Tahoe region through science, education, and outreach.

You can make a difference by volunteering!

We need at least two volunteers each Saturday and a few extra days during the holidays. Everyone is welcome to volunteer (so bring your family and friends) and training will be provided. All you need to bring is a smile! Volunteers will set up a small table with information about TINS and Rubicon Pizza will provide all the gear needed to sell slices. The cart will open 11:30 am-3:30 pm.

We have heard your requests for more opportunities to volunteer and this is a great way to help out TINS, share your passion, and meet some new friends. Please check out our Sign-up Genius form see if there is a date that you can help. If you would like to volunteer for a date that is full, or have any questions, please email me (jennie@tinsweb.org). Thank you in advance for your support!

Click Here to Volunteer

Volunteer and Help TINS Raise $20,000+

We are excited to announce that TINS has been selected as the 2025 Nonprofit Partner for Rubicon Pizza at Northstar Village. Recipients of this partnership have received over $20,000 for in support of their organization's mission and we think we can bring in even more with your help!

Each Saturday during the ski season, a pizza cart will be set-up in the Northstar Village where our volunteers will sell slices and share information about TINS. Profits from the pizza cart and tips will go directly to support TINS' mission of advancing the natural history, ecological, and conservation knowledge of the Tahoe region through science, education, and outreach.

You can make a difference by volunteering!

We need at least two volunteers each Saturday and a few extra days during the holidays. Everyone is welcome to volunteer (so bring your family and friends) and training will be provided. All you need to bring is a smile! Volunteers will set up a small table with information about TINS and Rubicon Pizza will provide all the gear needed to sell slices. The cart will open 11:30 am-3:30 pm.

We have heard your requests for more opportunities to volunteer and this is a great way to help out TINS, share your passion, and meet some new friends. Please check out our Sign-up Genius form see if there is a date that you can help. If you would like to volunteer for a date that is full, or have any questions, please email me (jennie@tinsweb.org). Thank you in advance for your support!

Click Here to Volunteer

Join TINS naturalist Sarah Hockensmith and Jennifer Coon from TRTA as they lead the way in search of wildlife, water features, and spectacular scenery from a beachy waterfront. Enjoy nature’s treasures before soaking up the great views of Sugar Pine Point State Park on Tahoe’s West Shore (tentative location). Sarah will discuss natural history topics related to winter ecology, including how various animals and plants cope with the short days, heavy snow, and freezing temperatures associated with winter in Tahoe, while Jennifer covers information about Lake Tahoes hydrology.

This two-mile, easy, out-and-back trek is family-friendly and appropriate for ages 8 and up. If the trails are covered in snow, TINS or the TRTA can provide snowshoes upon request. TINS can also provide binoculars by request. Please bring some snacks, as we will enjoy a lakeside picnic at tables near the lakeshore.

Difficulty: Easy

Distance: 2-3 miles round trip

Location: Sugar Pine Point State Park  tentative location ($5 parking fee)

Join the Friends of the Library and Tahoe Institute for Natural Science as they welcome Jared Manninen, a California Naturalist and wildlife photographer. Using stunning bird photography, Manninen will take us on a journey through his Tahoe Big Year adventure. Light refreshment provided.

Click here for more information.

Join us for an early morning snowshoe hike at Diamond Peak Ski Resort on Sunday, March 23 as part of the 2025 Luggi Foeger Uphill/Downhill Festival. 

This short and scenic hike will take you part way up Diamond Peak as Tahoe Institute for Natural Science (TINS) naturalist, Sarah Hockensmith discusses winter ecology concepts and the survival strategies and adaptations employed by animals from the Lake Tahoe Region. After the hike, grab some breakfast from Base Lodge Provisions and learn more about our wildlife and ecosystems. 

The hike is free (with a suggested donation to TINS) and snowshoes are available to rent from TINS for $10. Food and drinks will be available for purchase. Pre-registration is required. Registration opens about a month prior to the event. 

The 1-mile hike will take you up Diamond Peak’s Freeway trail from the Base Lodge.

• 7:15am – 7:30am: Check in & sign waiver

• 7:30am – 8:30am: Guided hike 

• Interactive presentation following hike. Food and drinks available for purchase. 

Volunteer and Help TINS Raise $20,000+

We are excited to announce that TINS has been selected as the 2025 Nonprofit Partner for Rubicon Pizza at Northstar Village. Recipients of this partnership have received over $20,000 for in support of their organization's mission and we think we can bring in even more with your help!

Each Saturday during the ski season, a pizza cart will be set-up in the Northstar Village where our volunteers will sell slices and share information about TINS. Profits from the pizza cart and tips will go directly to support TINS' mission of advancing the natural history, ecological, and conservation knowledge of the Tahoe region through science, education, and outreach.

You can make a difference by volunteering!

We need at least two volunteers each Saturday and a few extra days during the holidays. Everyone is welcome to volunteer (so bring your family and friends) and training will be provided. All you need to bring is a smile! Volunteers will set up a small table with information about TINS and Rubicon Pizza will provide all the gear needed to sell slices. The cart will open 11:30 am-3:30 pm.

We have heard your requests for more opportunities to volunteer and this is a great way to help out TINS, share your passion, and meet some new friends. Please check out our Sign-up Genius form see if there is a date that you can help. If you would like to volunteer for a date that is full, or have any questions, please email me (jennie@tinsweb.org). Thank you in advance for your support!

Click Here to Volunteer

Join our Executive Director, Will Richardson, on Good Morning Truckee on March 18th, where we’ll dive into the fascinating world of Local Wildlife! Hear from four expert wildlife specialists as they share valuable insights and updates on the diverse animals that call our area home. Whether you're a nature enthusiast or simply curious about the creatures that inhabit the Truckee/Tahoe area, this event will offer a unique opportunity to learn about the wildlife around us. This informative session will provide valuable insights into the behaviors, challenges, and conservation efforts surrounding our local species. Our speakers include:

Jim Dill - Board Member, Nevada County Fish and Wildlife Commission. Jim will fill us in on some of the things that the commission has been working on locally in Nevada County.

Larry Lane - Wildlife Specialist, Nevada County Fish & Wildlife Dept. Larry has helped numerous folks with human-wildlife related issues, especially dealing with bears in the Truckee area. He will  talk about preventative actions and measures they are taking plus the current state of local Bears, beavers & coyotes.

Carly White - Biologist, CA Dept of Fish and Wildlife for Nevada County. Carly is doing a lot of work in the Truckee area related to deer populations. She will also speak about the inflation of bear populations in the Tahoe basin.

Dr. Will Richardson - Co-Founder & Executive Director of the Tahoe Institute for Natural Science (TINS). Will is going to update us about Tahoe bird species and other projects that TINS is working on.

Volunteer and Help TINS Raise $20,000+

We are excited to announce that TINS has been selected as the 2025 Nonprofit Partner for Rubicon Pizza at Northstar Village. Recipients of this partnership have received over $20,000 for in support of their organization's mission and we think we can bring in even more with your help!

Each Saturday during the ski season, a pizza cart will be set-up in the Northstar Village where our volunteers will sell slices and share information about TINS. Profits from the pizza cart and tips will go directly to support TINS' mission of advancing the natural history, ecological, and conservation knowledge of the Tahoe region through science, education, and outreach.

You can make a difference by volunteering!

We need at least two volunteers each Saturday and a few extra days during the holidays. Everyone is welcome to volunteer (so bring your family and friends) and training will be provided. All you need to bring is a smile! Volunteers will set up a small table with information about TINS and Rubicon Pizza will provide all the gear needed to sell slices. The cart will open 11:30 am-3:30 pm.

We have heard your requests for more opportunities to volunteer and this is a great way to help out TINS, share your passion, and meet some new friends. Please check out our Sign-up Genius form see if there is a date that you can help. If you would like to volunteer for a date that is full, or have any questions, please email me (jennie@tinsweb.org). Thank you in advance for your support!

Click Here to Volunteer

Volunteer and Help TINS Raise $20,000+

We are excited to announce that TINS has been selected as the 2025 Nonprofit Partner for Rubicon Pizza at Northstar Village. Recipients of this partnership have received over $20,000 for in support of their organization's mission and we think we can bring in even more with your help!

Each Saturday during the ski season, a pizza cart will be set-up in the Northstar Village where our volunteers will sell slices and share information about TINS. Profits from the pizza cart and tips will go directly to support TINS' mission of advancing the natural history, ecological, and conservation knowledge of the Tahoe region through science, education, and outreach.

You can make a difference by volunteering!

We need at least two volunteers each Saturday and a few extra days during the holidays. Everyone is welcome to volunteer (so bring your family and friends) and training will be provided. All you need to bring is a smile! Volunteers will set up a small table with information about TINS and Rubicon Pizza will provide all the gear needed to sell slices. The cart will open 11:30 am-3:30 pm.

We have heard your requests for more opportunities to volunteer and this is a great way to help out TINS, share your passion, and meet some new friends. Please check out our Sign-up Genius form see if there is a date that you can help. If you would like to volunteer for a date that is full, or have any questions, please email me (jennie@tinsweb.org). Thank you in advance for your support!

Click Here to Volunteer