The World Trails Conference is a global gathering of trail experts, trail managers and builders, trail destinations, enthusiasts and academics, who meet every two years to share knowledge, network and ensure the benefits trails offer society continue to be sustainable and supported around the world.
Hosted every two years in a different country, previous hosts include Ottawa, Canada; Skiathos, Greece; Santiago de Compostela, Spain; Tottori, Japan; and Jeju Island, Korea. This edition of the biennial conference for the global trail industry will be the first to be held in the Southern Hemisphere.
Trails represent a growing contribution to the world’s GDP and they play a significant role in adventure tourism and soft adventure in particular. Trails are major contributors to conservation and nature experiences, cultural heritage and healthy lifestyles. They benefit local communities, tourists, health, recreation and nature education.
The theme for World Trails Conference 2026 is:
Trails for the Future: Connection, Culture and Conservation
WTC26 Steering Committee Members:
- Katie Brown, CEO, Awards WA
- Rod Annear, Assistant Director of Parks and Visitor Services, Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions (DCBA)
- Matt Hayes, Director Strategy and Partnerships – Sport and Recreation, Department Creative Industries & Sport (CITS)
- Sarah Court, Manager Built Environment, Active Transport, Department of Transport WA
- Lori Modde, CEO, Outdoors NSW & ACT
- Neil Le Febvre, CEO, Outdoors WA
- Jackie Crooks, Director Tourism Experience Development, Tourism Western Australia
- Agata Sleeman, CEO, Trails WA
- Robert Taylor, CEO, Western Australian Indigenous Tourism Operators Council (WAITOC)
- Jackie Randle, International Co-Chair, World Trails Network
