Outdoors
Beyond the Classroom
Our unique setting in the Blue Ridge Mountains turns the outdoors into a daily part of student life and learning.
Off Screens, Into The Woods
One of the most distinctive aspects of the Blue Ridge experience is our robust outdoor program.
From outdoor elective classes that take place during the academic day, to afternoon activities and off-campus weekend trips, we take full advantage our location at the base of Virginia’s Blue Ridge Mountains to help boys channel their energy, hone their leadership skills, foster respect for the environment, enhance their self esteem, and learn the value of teamwork.
A Place Like No Other
With 20 miles of trails crossing our 750-acre campus, extensive outdoor facilities, and activities like mountain biking, hiking, rock climbing, fly fishing, and orienteering, everything about our outdoor program is built for a boy’s adventurous spirit.
During the School Day
Outdoor Academic Electives
The Outdoor Education program at Blue Ridge School is designed to teach respect for the natural world, for others, and for one’s self. Comprised of seven academic electives, boys learn skills like outdoor survival, first aid, orienteering, ecosystem research and management, outdoor program development, and environmental service. In fact, the boys have contributed to a variety of projects on the mountain, building trails and bridges for future use. And, along the way, they develop strength, independence, and leadership that will guide them through their lives.
After School
Co-Curricular Outdoor Activities
Blue Ridge School makes extracurricular time interesting with supervised nontraditional sporting activities where boys can build strength, work as teams, and compete with themselves and others.
The activities are diverse, ranging from rock climbing, hiking, and mountain biking to deer tracking, archery, and ultimate frisbee. Some activities even offer a chance to compete in annual events. Our vast campus and our location in the Blue Ridge foothills provide the unique opportunity to explore outdoor adventures year round.
Discovery Starts Here
See how our Outdoor Program helps boys find their passion, hone their leadership skills, and foster a respect for the environment.
Blue Ridge School has checked every box a parent could desire. BRS has a diversity in both the teaching staff and in the student body. It has a remarkably low student to teacher ratio, which is realized in most classes and translates into outstanding academic experiences. It has the philosophy and resources to effectively engage and direct boys.”
BRS Parent
Blue Ridge School has completely changed my life. It is by far one of the best schools in Virginia and nationwide. Our culture and diversity is unmatched to that of any other boarding school in the country. It is truly a home to me and all of my classmates, we are truly one big family. That is why we here at Blue Ridge school call ourselves Baron Brothers.”
BRS Sophomore
Both of my sons attended the Blue Ridge School. We sent them two boys and they sent us back men. They graduated from great universities, are married and have settled into great careers. We have many fond memories and cannot recommend the school highly enough.”
BRS Parent
I attended Blue Ridge in 1985, 1986 and graduated in 1987. I was a summer school counselor in 1988. It’s like home to me and the best thing that happened to me at that time. It made me who I am today and I made life long friends. The school is exceptional and anyone who is able to attend is truly blessed.”
BRS Alumni
My time at Blue Ridge School has been unforgettable. The outdoor adventures, from hiking scenic trails to bonding with my Baron brothers, have shaped my experience. Exploring the mountains, running the trails, and enjoying the fresh air has given me a deep appreciation for nature.”
BRS Junior
The sense of brotherhood here is incredible, whether through late-night talks, shared challenges, or intense games of football and golf. The thrill of competition, the hard work at practice, and the celebrations after victories have all been unforgettable. Sports taught me teamwork, resilience, and discipline, helping me grow both on and off the field.”
BRS Senior
Blue Ridge is more than a school—it’s a second home, a place where friendships, lessons, and memories will last a lifetime.”
BRS Junior
