Inside the Summit Streams: Strengthening the Trail Sector

Trails are all about connection. One path connects to others to form a network, which connects people to nature and one another. Canada’s trail sector can strengthen itself by taking a similarly connected, community approach to building and maintaining trails. That’s the thinking behind “Strengthening the Trail Sector,” one of the 2026 Canadian Trail Summit’s three core streams. 

Going beyond the trail itself 

Programming under this stream turns the focus outward, looking at the systems, supports and relationships that help trail organizations do their work well. It’s about building capacity, sharing knowledge and finding new ways to respond to evolving needs.  

Timely sector-wide issues 

Our well-rounded set of presentations focus on a range of topics, including digital tools and data, responsible tourism, liability, stewardship, youth engagement and the role trails can play in supporting local economies. These conversations reflect the reality that strengthening the sector means thinking about people, resources and long-term resilience all at once.  

Sharing what works 

As organizations navigate shifting expectations, changing pressures and new opportunities for partnership, there is real value in coming together to share not only what’s working, but also where new approaches are needed. This stream’s sessions include numerous case studies and real-world examples of the incredible work being done across the Canadian trail sector. 

Building a stronger trail community 

This stream is designed to spark conversations about how the trail sector can stay adaptable, connected and effective. With presenters that include trail managers, consultants, volunteer coordinators, tourism professionals, policy makers and more, the sessions under this stream will inspire new approaches and form new connections. 

The “Strengthening the Trail Sector” stream is about considering not just how to manage a trail, but how to help build a stronger trail community. By taking this approach, organizations across Canada will be able to make impacts at a local and national scale.