Activities & Events
Wilderness School
Wilderness School | Class Options | Schedule & Rates
Montreat Wilderness School is a wonderful opportunity for students to experience some of the natural sciences outside of the classroom, and also to strengthen their foundations of communication and teamwork. Our hands-on approach to learning allows students to have fun, be more active, and learn about our world—all at the same time.
Montreat is a cove nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains covering 4,000 acres. More than 2,500 of those acres are pristine wilderness lands registered in the N.C. Registry of Natural Heritage Areas. The elevation in Montreat ranges from 2,400 feet to over 5,400 feet with a wide diversity of plant and animal life spread throughout a range of different biomes. Much of Montreat is covered with lush deciduous forest and laced with pure mountain streams that flow into Flat Creek.
There are more than 20 trails in Montreat stretching almost 30 miles. These trails offer a variety of hikes for all skill levels and feature views of the Black Mountains, the Swannanoa Valley, the North Fork Watershed, and Montreat itself.
For a more relaxing walk or a closer look at nature, groups can explore the Walk C. Jones wildlife sanctuary, which features meditation stations, a prayer labyrinth, and a tree-shaded path around the pond.
This setting provides a fitting backdrop to the ministry of Montreat Conference Center, and we hope it will also provide a unique field classroom for your students. Our variety of classes offered in environmental education, primitive skills, and leadership will allow you to personalize your visit to the needs and interests of your group. In addition to outdoor activities, students will have the opportunity for reflection and discussion, lunch, and maybe even overnight experiences – all hosted by Montreat Conference Center. Download the Montreat Wilderness School planning guide for more information!
Wilderness School | Class Options | Schedule & Rates
Wilderness Coordinator Jason Nanz comes to Montreat from Roanoke, Va. He is a 2006 graduate of Roanoke College with a degree in music and theology. Jason is an Eagle Scout and has been involved with the wilderness program at Montreat Conference Center for the past five years.
Jason has experience in environmental education, primitive living skills, and wilderness conservation, including time spent as a field instructor at Nature’s Classroom in Mentone, AL., and as an instructor for the BSA’s Junior Leadership Training Conference.
Jason can be contacted at:
montreatwilderness@gmail.com
O: 828.669.2911 ext. 347
M: 540.797.2334