Wild Lines: Oxbow Nature Study Area

Oxbow Nature Study Area is a restored wetland on the northern banks of the Truckee River. Here, many species of birds can be observed year-round wading on ponds, fluttering around cottonwoods or mixed in with the willows. For our journey here, we will mix inspiration from this natural setting with the published work of Helen Macdonald (author of Vesper Flights) to ignite discussion and inspiration on how to relate this pocket natural world to issues that relate globally.

Difficulty Level: Easy

Distance: 0.9 mile loop

Elevation Gain: 10 feet

Trail Type: Mixed, dirt and boardwalk

Amenities: Year-round restrooms, benches

Who is this for:

Wild Lines events are a chance to explore beautiful local landscapes with fellow writers, guided through the trails with discussions on scene, works of literature, and journal prompts to provoke inspiration and (hopefully) a means of getting unstuck in your current writing projects.

Aimed at writers from all genres, this event is great for those looking for a change in their writing routine, one that literally adds forward movement, gets them outside, and introduces them to a community of fellow writers to support, provide perspective, and cheer on. This workshop aims to be inclusive to people’s physical needs and is offered at varying ability levels. Check event specifics for more details of each event. All group members must be able to walk at least one mile and have the ability to be on their feet for up to an hour. These events are open to all ages (minors must be accompanied by parents or guardians) and all writing levels.

Group members who need special accommodation should reach out directly to our event host at [email protected]. Please don’t hesitate to reach out directly to our event host to request a slower or more challenging event.

Though these events are geared toward writers – with specific writing prompts to advance story ideas – artists from other mediums are welcome to join and encouraged to share their visual perspective to the writing prompts and challenged to translate their medium to the written word to better understand their craft.

Host or Publisher Helena Guglielmino