Mountain Trails Adventure School

22/05/2026

Mountains Trails board accepts offer to restore the ministry

The board of Restoration Enterprises Limited, operators of the Mountain Trails campsite is pleased to announce a new operator for our Mission and the amazing property the Lord brought us to 33 years ago. The Mountain Trails Renewal Consortium (MTRC) will take over the operation of the camp site in early June.

“We have been looking for a group to continue the ministry of leading young people to Christ through camping for over two years now and we believe we have a group of people committed to our aims of Evangelism and Discipleship through Outdoor Challenge”, said retiring CEO Dr Gary Jones.

Together with his wife and a group of volunteers, Gary started Christian camps under the Mountain Trails banner in 1988. “There have been generations who have joined in, catching the vision and making it happen. Each generation has shaped the mission and influenced many lives. It has been a true team effort, and has gone beyond Ruth and myself.” Gary said.

“The Mission of Mountain Trails is not something we own, it is something we serve, as a team, joining together with others. We have been so blessed, and humbled by this gift from God. There have been hard times, as many of you will know. But you don’t grow unless you are challenged and overcome. It has cost us in many ways, but we see this as an investment for eternity. It is an investment well spent." said Gary.

"But we wear out and there is a time to hand on to others. I will no longer be the Second-in-Command, CEO or Caretaker. We both still hope to contribute to Mountain Trails, but without the responsibility of leadership. We thank and praise our Heavenly Father for all he has done through this Team."

Consortium Chairman, Michael Kilham said, “Our Consortium comprises a team with broad experience in Christian camping, business and governance”.
“We’re committed to continuing to implement the vision of Gary and Ruth on the Mountain Trails property,” Michael said. “In addition, we look forward to reopening and working with other Christian organisations, camping ministries, businesses, and Mountain Trails loyal supporters.”

"After 38 years of running camps and the ministry, we have seen many young people come to a personal faith in Jesus Christ and deepen their commitment, passing the message on. We’re excited that the Mountain Trails Renewal Consortium are keen to continue this ministry,” Gary said.

If you are interested in supporting the Consortium, please email: [email protected]

(Photo: Board members all agreeing to accept offer from MTRC)

02/08/2024

Gary and Ruth Jones awarded 'Exemplary Service Award' at Christian Venues conference.

Gary and Ruth Jones received the Exemplary Service Award for their dedication and service of more than 35 years to Mountain Trails and the wider Christian camping community at the annual CVA conference held at the The Tops Conference Centre, Stanwell Tops.

The Exemplary service awards are granted to those who have provided significant service to both their own organisation and the wider Christian Venues Community over an extended period.

Congratulations.

22/04/2024

On Saturday at the Celebration, Gary gave a history of Mountain Trails. Here's a video of his speech.

20/04/2024

And here's the cake.

20/04/2024

We had a fabulous day today giving thanks to God for Gary and Ruth's ministry at Mountain Trails. It was a beautiful day and there were lots of former staff and campers who came with wonderful memories.

14/04/2024

If you intend to come to our celebration picnic this Saturday 20th April, please RSVP by Tuesday evening the 16th of April at the latest. For details and to RSVP please visit the link below.

Celebration Picnic- 36 Years of Mountain Trails

28/03/2024

Although this ABC Life story was filmed a few years ago, it sums up the impact that Gary and Ruth’s ministry has had at Mountain Trails. This is just one story about one changed life. There are hundreds more stories.

ABC Life |

Growing up, Sarahjane Bradford was told she was better off dead. In our video series, Thanks, the domestic violence survivor gives a surprise thank you to the people who helped her find her worth.

22/03/2024

As mentioned in our previous posts, Mountain Trails is ceasing operation in its current form and we would like to invite you to join with us to celebrate 36 years of adventure. Please visit the link below for more information and to RSVP.
https://events.humanitix.com/picnic-celebration-36yrs-of-mountain-trails

20/03/2024

On April 20th we will Celebrate 36 years of ministry by Ruth and Gary at Mountain Trails. The event will be held on site from 11.30am. More details and the opportunity to RSVP coming soon.

06/03/2024

An important message from our CEO, Gary Jones.

Mountain Trails will be closing all programs and activities from the 10th March. 2024, for Restructuring and Renewal. We expect this to be temporary, but we have no firm re-opening date at present.

Further information will appear on our website as things develop. Thank you to all who have supported us.

06/11/2023

Yes, we will be running our usual Summer Camps over the January School holidays! ☀️ If you are interested please keep an eye on our website for details in the coming week.