The Rangers in Training program is offered by New River Gorge National River. The program is designed to engage underserved youth, ages 14-17, living in communities surrounding the Park to get out in nature and do some really cool stuff. Youth will participate in a series of safe, supervised, fun and exciting educational adventures that will enhance their appreciation of New River Gorge National River, teach a lifelong love of the outdoors, and allow them to explore career fields with the National Park Service. The program is FREE for all participants.
During Rangers in Training, students will...
1. Participate in a series of adventure day-trips during the summer, such as rock climbing, whitewater rafting, hiking, swimming, archery and fishing to learn about and explore New River Gorge National River.
2. Connect with the outdoors through the adventure activities with the goal of inspiring a lifelong appreciation of nature and the outdoors.
3. Interact with park staff during the summer adventures and career shadowing opportunities to get to know the park staff and learn about their careers with the National Park Service.
A Few Things You Should Know Before Applying...
• The Rangers in Training program is offered at no cost.
• Filling out an application is free and there is no obligation to you.
• Teens selected to participate are expected to attend all four day-trips (barring emergencies). As an incentive, teens that attend all four adventures will be able to sign up for a fifth adventure trip.
• Students will need to have transportation to and from a local school, picking up at 8:00 am and dropping off around 6:00 pm.
• If selected, teens will be required to fill out an emergency contact form and provide signed safety release form(s) before attending the day-trips.
• Teens will be notified by early May if selected to participate in the Rangers in Training program.
