Nathan Gruver, Mentor

Nathan is an outdoor educator in Asheville North Carolina. Nathan focuses on providing exciting experiences with an emphasis on relationships, and personal growth through adventure. As an outdoor educator, Nathan has a passion for sharing his love of the outdoors in a way that encourages growth and relationships.

Working with youth has been a dream that Nathan has been developing over the past five years. During this time he has intentionally placed himself in positions that have allowed him the experience of developing leadership and teaching skills. Nathan completed his internship with Blue Ridge Treks participating and leading a summer leadership program with the Buncombe County Department of Juvenile Justice. He has continued to lead this program for two more summers and is currently the Summer Leadership Program Director.

Nathan has also participated in several Work Experience positions and Field Shadow positions. Working with the National Park Service developing and leading program hikes. Nathan has also worked closely with Montreat Team and Leadership Center developing, leading and constructing high ropes, low ropes and portable initiatives. Nathan’s organization skills earned him the position of Logistics Supervisor for Montreat College Discovery Program. This program is a 21-day backcountry experience that hikes climbs, boats and navigates the mountains of Western North Carolina.

While working on his Bachelor degree at Montreat College, Nathan served as a work-study and equipment room specialist. During his time at Montreat, Nathan focused on experiencing the outdoors and the environment of Western North Carolina while developing and honing his teaching skills through environmental, experiential and adventure based education.

Nathan is a father of two daughters. He and his wife live in Black Mountain and enjoy spending time together and having exciting adventures. Nathan also enjoys hiking, rock climbing, playing games, playing music, whitewater paddling and many other outdoor activities.