10 Reasons to Attend the Canadian Trail Summit

Are you still on the fence about attending the Canadian Trail Summit? Do you need to make the case to your boss or board that it’s worth it? Here are 10 reasons to join us in Winnipeg, June 16 to 19.  

1. This isn’t a typical conference experience 

You won’t be spending four days in a conference room! The Summit brings together keynotes, breakout sessions, experiential workshops, field experiences and networking opportunities for a dynamic, hands-on event. 

2. We’ll explore real issues facing trail organizations 

The Summit’s program focuses on pressing real-world topics like climate resilience, visitor use management, data and digital tools, responsible tourism, liability, stewardship, youth engagement and inclusive planning. 

3. You’ll leave with practical ideas you can use 

The Summit is designed to be useful. Sessions and workshops are built to help attendees bring home ideas, approaches and examples they can apply in their own communities and organizations. 

4. Hands-on learning opportunities

Hands-on programming is a big part of the experience. Experiential workshops and field trips will give you a chance to explore ideas in context, not just hear about them in a conference room. 

5. Get inspired by dynamic speakers

The keynote lineup brings together perspectives on health, accessibility, history and community. These bigger-picture conversations help connect everyday trail work to larger social impact. 

6. To build meaningful connections

Trail managers, advocates, researchers, suppliers, volunteers, policymakers and community leaders will all be part of the conversation at the Summit. It’s a chance to build relationships that can last well beyond the event. 

7. You’ll get strong value for the price 

Registration doesn’t just include a full schedule of sessions. It also includes: a welcome reception, field trips with transportation and lunch, a special evening experience at The Leaf (Winnipeg’s spectacular indoor horticultural space), breakfast and lunch every day, exhibitor hall access and coffee breaks. 

8. Travel planning is easy

With Delta Hotels Winnipeg as the host hotel and central hub, logistics are straightforward. Sessions take place onsite, and field trip transportation departs directly from the hotel. We also have exclusive discounts on air and train travel to Winnipeg. 

9. You’ll go home with something to show for it 

If you need to justify attending, this is one of the strongest reasons of all: the Summit offers practical learning, fresh ideas and new connections that can directly support your work back home. 

10. You’ll be part of history! 

The 2026 Canadian Trail Summit is the first-ever gathering of its kind for Canada’s trail sector. That makes it a rare opportunity to help shape the conversation around where the sector goes next. 

Whether you’re looking for new tools, bigger-picture thinking, or stronger sector connections, the Canadian Trail Summit is designed to deliver a well-rounded and worthwhile experience.