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Joshua Trees, Jack Rabbits, and Jasper. The Springs Preserve is a 180-acre eco-island in the heart of the Las Vegas Valley. Explore the rocks, plants and animals in our own backyard through guided tours, lectures and more. Reservations are required. Call Springs Preserve Adult Education at (702) 822-7786.


These virtual visits prepare you for your own explorations. We'll focus mainly on areas within a short drive from Las Vegas, occasionally venturing farther afield or focusing on specific plants or animals.

A Visit to the Spring Mountains
July 9, 6 to 7:30 p.m.
Free. Pre-registration advised
Learn about some of the great trails in the Spring Mountains and the plant and animal species that live there. Many of these species live nowhere else in the world, so taking care when hiking among them is important. Learn ways you can protect this special place as you explore.

Fun in the Sun at Lake Mead
Aug. 13, 6 to 7:30 p.m.
Free. Pre-registration advised
Lake Mead National Recreation Area has much to offer visitors, including hidden finds for those who know where to look. Join us to learn about fun family activities that await you, whether visiting for the day or overnight. Discover the best ways to get to Lake Mead, what to know before you go, and the best places to hike, kayak, swim, explore history or view wildlife.

Fun Times at Valley of Fire
Sept. 10, 6 to 7:30 p.m.
Free. Pre-registration advised
Come learn about Nevada's first state park. Valley of Fire—just an hour away—is home to ancient sandstone rock formations, petroglyphs, desert plants and wildlife. Make your next trip there the best by knowing the top spots for picnicking, camping, hiking and even photography.


July 18, 1 to 2:30 p.m.
Free with general admission and for Annual Pass members. Pre-registration advised
What if duct tape just can't fix it? Let the expert staff from REI show you 10 ways to make your next outing safer, whether it's a stroll at the Preserve or a weekend backpacking trip. We'll discuss the importance of the 10 Essential Items every hiker, backpacker, birder or photographer should carry outdoors. Plenty of gear options will be on hand to help you decide what to take on any adventure.


Aug. 2, 1 to 4 p.m.
Free with general admission and for Annual Pass members. Pre-registration advised
The changing climate is one of the most significant global events of our time. Goldwell Open Air Museum resident artists Andrea Polli and Chuck Varga present recent developments in the "Hello, Weather!" project, a series of networked weather stations at art centers and museums nationwide. These stations invite participants of all ages to explore weather and climate as a starting point for creative expression.


Aug. 8, 1 to 2 p.m.
Free with general admission and for Annual Pass members. Pre-registration advised
What does it take to keep all of the Preserve’s exhibit critters happy and healthy? Learn all about the feeding and care of our exhibit animals. Join a Springs Preserve zoologist and see what few visitors ever see. Ages 12 and older only, please. Space is very limited, so register early.


Sept. 12, 8 to 9:30 a.m.
Free with general admission and for Annual Pass members. Pre-registration advised
Come explore the Springs Preserve hiking trails with Wildlife Biologist Raymond Saumure as your guide. With more than 250 species of animals known to occur onsite, there is always something interesting to discover! Participants are encouraged to bring a sense of adventure, sensible footwear, a camera and at least two bottles of water. Space is very limited, so register early.


Sept. 14, 6 to 7:30 p.m.
Free. Pre-registration advised
Dr. David Guggenheim, a.k.a. the Ocean Doctor, travels the country educating students and communities about the oceans. Although Nevada is not a coastal state, Dr. Guggenheim will teach us about the importance of ocean health and how it affects us inland.