Inside the Summit Streams: Innovating Trail Management

Trails are changing. That means the work it takes to manage them is changing too. From climate pressures to increased use, trail organizations are being asked to adapt quickly and think differently. That’s where the Canadian Trail Summit’s “Innovating Trail Management” stream comes in.  

Responding to real-world challenges 

Sessions in this stream focus on practical strategies for building, maintaining and improving trails over time. Presenters will share deep insights about the tools, approaches and ideas that help trails stay resilient, safe and enjoyable in a changing world.  

Exploring pressing issues facing trail managers 

The Summit will tackle big conversations on timely issues like climate resilience, visitor use management, digital tools and data, stewardship, liability, and more. While each trail is unique, many trail organizations are working through similar issues right now; this stream’s presentations will provide practical solutions that can be applied or adapted regardless of geography, resources or organization capacity.  

Learning through hands-on experience 

This stream also comes with a strong practical element. Experiential workshops will explore topics like visitation data collection, geocaching, and signage and wayfinding, giving attendees the chance to move beyond theory and look at ideas they can apply back home.  

Connecting with peers across the sector 

For trail managers, planners, municipal staff, consultants and stewards, this is a chance to compare approaches, learn from peers and discover new ways to respond to changing conditions.  

If your work is focused on how trails are designed, operated and sustained, the “Innovating Trail Management” stream is for you.