The Summit Bechtel Reserve is a 10,600-acre property nestled in the Appalachian Mountains of West Virginia. The area is rich in history and culture, with the Appalachian Mountains being home to many Native American tribes for thousands of years. The area was later settled by European immigrants in the 18th and 19th centuries, and played an important role in the development of the coal mining industry in the region.
The New River Gorge National Park is located just a few miles from The Summit Bechtel Reserve and is a popular destination for visitors looking to explore the natural beauty of the area. The park features over 70,000 acres of rugged mountains, lush forests, and stunning waterfalls, and is home to a variety of wildlife, including black bears, bobcats, and river otters. Visitors can enjoy a wide range of activities in the park, from hiking and rock climbing to fishing and whitewater rafting. The New River Gorge Bridge, one of the longest steel-arch bridges in the world, is also a major attraction in the park, offering stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
Since the Boy Scouts of America purchased the property in 2009, The Summit has undergone extensive renovations and development to become one of the most impressive outdoor adventure destinations in the world. The site was chosen for its expansive size, diverse topography, and stunning natural beauty, as well as its proximity to major metropolitan areas such as Washington D.C. and Pittsburgh.
The Summit was chosen to host the National Scout Jamboree in 2013, an event that brings together tens of thousands of Scouts and Scouters from around the country for a week of fun, fellowship, and adventure. Since 2013, The Summit has become a premier destination for outdoor enthusiasts and adventure seekers from all over the world, including hosting the 2017 National Jamboree, and 2019 World Scout Jamboree.
But The Summit is much more than just a venue for the National Jamboree. The property is home to a variety of other Scouting programs and events throughout the year, including high adventure treks, leadership development courses, and family camping weekends. The Summit also serves as a training ground for emergency responders, with specialized courses and training programs offered to law enforcement, firefighters, and other first responders.
One of the most impressive features of The Summit is its state-of-the-art facilities and infrastructure. The property boasts over 40 miles of mountain biking trails, a 90-acre lake for water activities, and one of the largest outdoor climbing facilities in the world. The site also features an impressive amphitheater and numerous pavilions and campgrounds, providing ample space for large events and gatherings.
But perhaps the most impressive aspect of The Summit is its commitment to sustainability and environmental stewardship. The property features a variety of green initiatives, from solar panels and wind turbines to a state-of-the-art wastewater treatment plant. The Summit is also home to the Sustainability Treehouse, a LEED Platinum-certified facility that serves as a model for sustainable building design and environmental education.
The BSA is building the future generation of leaders in our communities, as participants at the 2023 National Jamboree, who’s ready to explore the wonder of The Summit Bechtel Reserve?