About the World Trails Conference
The World Trails Conference is a bi-annual global forum where representatives from trails around the world can come together to learn from trail experts, forge meaningful networks and shape the future of trail experiences around the world.
The 2024 World Trails Conference will be hosted by the Trans Canada Trail and will take place from September 30 to October 3 in Ottawa, Canada.
In addition to thought-provoking presentations, the conference will feature diverse activities, trail journeys, workshops and a celebratory reception.
Conference Theme: Connecting People, Places and the Planet
The 2024 World Trails Conference will focus on connection to people, places and the planet. Explore the profound bonds that link humanity to the natural world and develop a new understanding of how our trails impact the environment, communities and each other. This theme encourages a holistic perspective and celebrates the intricate web of connections that shape our trails. The conference program will offer three thematic tracks:
Climate and Nature: Delve into the essential intersection of human activity and the environment, addressing the pressing concerns of climate change, biodiversity loss, and the imperative for sustainable practices.
Regenerative Tourism: Uncover the transformative potential of tourism as a catalyst for positive change, focusing on revitalizing communities, nurturing art and culture, and harnessing technology to enhance the visitor experience.
Resilient Trails Sector: Explore how diverse participation, community collaboration and innovative operational models contribute to a thriving trail sector, with a strong emphasis on education, inclusion and knowledge sharing.
A Global Gathering
The 2024 World Trails Conference is poised to be the largest in the event’s history. We are excited to welcome delegates from 25 different countries to Canada’s National Capital for the first-ever World Trails Conference on North American soil.
While all conference presentations will be done in English, we are proud to offer live translation services to more than 50 languages through Wordly.ai. This technology will be available in all conference rooms through attendees’ mobile devices.
About the World Trails Network
The World Trails Network (WTN) strives to connect the diverse trails of the world to promote the creation, enhancement, and protection of outstanding trail experiences. The World Trails Network brings trail associations, trail advocates, walkers, hikers and people passionate about the outdoors together from around the world to foster global collaboration and networking for the betterment of the world’s trails.
About the conference host: Trans Canada Trail
Trans Canada Trail is the organization that advocates for, stewards and champions the Trans Canada Trail, a 28,000-kilometre trail network that crosses every province and territory, connects 15,000 communities, and reaches all three of Canada’s coastlines. It is the longest multi-use trail in the world.
As Canada’s trail sector leader, Trans Canada Trail is thrilled to convene the global outdoors community for discussions that will inspire and inform trail stewardship for years to come.
About the World Trails Conference
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.
Principles of the conference
How we convene and what we focus on.
Conference Mission
To create a global forum where trails from every region can come together and engage in relevant dialogue, networking and cross-learning for the benefit of trails everywhere.
Globally Relevant and Engaged
Connecting meaningfully with the global community of trails
Interactive and Dynamic
Making space for the trail ideas and expertise of all participants
Collaborative and Focused
Scaling networking and action via clear thematic streams linked to trails
Creative and Generative
Exploring new ideas and innovations for best practice for trails
Inclusive and Cross-reaching
Embracing diversity and equitable solutions across trails