(Lander, WY)- Fremont Biz takes us on the road to the headquarters of the National Outdoor Leadership School (NOLS) in Lander, Wyoming—a fitting place as the world-renowned outdoor school celebrates its 60th anniversary. In this episode we sat down with Cody Kaemmerlen, Vice President of Advancement at NOLS, to reflect on the school’s history, impact, and the exciting anniversary celebration happening right here in Fremont County.
Founded in 1965, NOLS has grown from a small idea rooted in Wyoming’s rugged Wind River Range to a global leader in experiential wilderness education. Its mission has always been clear: teach leadership through outdoor adventure, challenge, and teamwork.
Cody shared his own journey to NOLS, as well as stories about the organization’s growth and the countless individuals who have passed through its programs. Beyond outdoor skills, NOLS emphasizes “Expedition Behavior”—collaboration, preparation, and respect for one another, lessons that carry far beyond the trail.
To honor this milestone, NOLS is hosting a weekend of special events in Lander, open to the entire community, with highlights that include storytelling and communal gatherings where alumni and current students share their journeys, climbing events and outdoor activities celebrating the spirit of exploration, Trail Mix socials that bring people together in true NOLS style, and special guest appearances like legendary climber Alex Honnold Saturday September 27, 2025 10:00am – 11:00am with Peter Metcalf of Black Diamond.
The anniversary events are free (with the exception of the climbing event https://nols60thanniversary2025.sched.com/event/2709q/wind-river-climbing-guides-climbing-day) and open to all, but registration is required. Practicing good Expedition Behavior means signing up in advance so meals, space, and activities can be planned for everyone.
Register here: NOLS 60th Anniversary Events
View the full schedule: Sched Event Schedule
Registration closes Friday, September 5th, so don’t wait to save your spot.
Whether you’ve been a part of the NOLS community for years or are just curious about its impact, this is a chance to celebrate six decades of leadership, wilderness, and connection.
