More Than Just a Venue
We are committed to providing transformative educational and adventure experiences for learners of all ages. Our passion for education and stewardship of the land drives us to create customized programs that help individuals challenge their comfort zones, while discovering the beauty of the outdoors.
Here at The Peaks, we invite you to:
ESCAPE
EVERYDAY
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Break away from routines.
We provide a serene and rejuvenating environment where you can leave your worries behind and reconnect with yourself and those around you.
BUILD COMMUNITY
Growth is a
collective journey.
Our programs are designed to bring families, teams, groups and organizations closer together, fostering deeper connections and shared experiences.
GET
OUTSIDE
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Nature is for everyone.
We provide ample opportunities to explore and learn in the great outdoors.
GO ADVENTURE
Discover new potential.
Our experienced staff are dedicated to helping you safely explore and push beyond your limits.
Who Are We?
We are adventure seekers and play experts. We are adventurous educators and outdoor enthusiasts. We are the team prepared to bring your vision to life.
We’ll partner with you to develop the customized outdoor education and adventure experience that’s right for you. Whether that’s a field day on our challenge course, a family reunion under the stars, a camp, or anything in between: The Peaks is ready to serve you.
Come meet the team that can’t wait to work with you.
Meet the Team
Susan
Center Director
Susan has spent the last 20 years teaching and facilitating in outdoor spaces—from challenge courses and summer camps to backcountry trails, rivers, lakes, and beyond. She is excited to bring her passion for connecting people to the outdoors and finding those shared “a-ha!” moments. In her free time, she enjoys getting outside with her family and connecting her two small children to the natural world, preferably hiking the Appalachian Trail.
Rusty
Chief Experience Officer
Rusty’s extensive background in teaching, facilitation, and curriculum development coupled with his experience in non-profit operations, business strategy, and event management makes him uniquely qualified to lead the CustomED charge. He has coordinated international events, trained students, and directed curriculum at schools both private and public, international and domestic. A recent recipient of the Drexel University EMBA Alumni Award for Entrepreneurship, Rusty’s past professional experience includes acting as CEO and creative director of the world’s largest creativity program. When not at work, Rusty is always in motion—taking planes and trains to see the world.
Will
Marketing & Event Coordinator
A native of Roanoke, Virginia, Will has an associate’s degree in Integrated Environmental Studies and a certificate in Entrepreneurship Management from Virginia Western Community College. As the Marketing and Event Coordinator, Will looks forward to drawing on his 7+ years of experience in marketing and event coordination to create memorable experiences for all to enjoy. When he’s not working, you will most likely find Will at a concert or music festival not too far away.
Marco
Facilities & Grounds Coordinator
Marco is endlessly passionate about the outdoors. After earning a B.S. in Recreation, Parks, and Tourism Resources at West University, he has cared for several outdoor adventure centers before joining The Peaks team as our Facilities and Grounds Coordinator. When he’s not at work, you can find Marco spending time with his daughter and taking care of their farm.
Sarah
Community Ambassador
A native of Thaxton, Virginia, Sarah earned her bachelor’s degree in History and Education from Lynchburg College and has been a teacher in the county for more than a decade. As the Community Ambassador, Sarah is looking forward to building relationships and enriching the community she loves so dearly. When not working, you will likely find her at sporting events or enjoying the outdoors with her husband and their dog—gardening, hiking, hunting, or fishing.
Adventure Staff
The Peaks’ facilities are tailored to support a wide variety of adventures and experiences. We’re proud to offer our Swimming Pool and Low Ropes Course, a Climbing Wall and 400-ft Gravity Zipline, On-Site Accommodations for up to 80 guests, 8,200 square feet of Dining and Breakout Space, and extensive athletic facilities all designed to help work with you and turn your vision into reality.
How can our facilities help bring your event to life?
Let’s get in touch and find the ways The Peaks can elevate your plans.
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For directions to The Peaks, click here.
Our Mission
Our mission is to provide extraordinary educational experiences that inspire and motivate learners of all ages. CustomED is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that designs and implements extraordinary programs and experiences to solve challenges in education, training and outreach efforts for a variety of organizations.