World Trails Network Task Teams are small groups of passionate people from around the world who volunteer their time to work on specific trail-related topics. Think of them as “project teams” or “working groups” focused on making trails better — in many different ways.
Even if you’ve never heard of a Task Team before, here’s what you need to know:
What They Do
- Identify challenges & opportunities. Each Task Team picks a theme (for example, trails in cities, conservation, tourism, or knowledge sharing) and figures out what the big issues are.
- Create real projects. They turn ideas into action — from guidelines, research reports, toolkits, or campaigns to advocacy at local, national or international levels.
- Share knowledge & best practices. They collect case studies, research, stories, and lessons so trail builders, managers, users, and communities can all learn from one another.
- Connect people. Task Teams bring together trail experts, volunteers, community leaders, researchers, planners, and more to collaborate across borders.
Why They Matter
- Focus & impact. Instead of trying to do everything, WTN uses Task Teams so that each area (e.g. “Sustainability & Governance” or “Media & Culture”) can get real attention and move forward.
- Global + local. Though the teams are international, many projects have local relevance — adapting global insights to what works in your region, climate, or culture.
- Volunteers make it happen. The Task Teams are volunteer-led (with Co-Chairs) and rely on the energy and expertise of people who care about trails. That means anyone can join, contribute, and help make a difference.
- Continuous learning. Even between the big World Trails Conferences, Task Teams keep the work alive — meeting regularly, launching new ideas, and building momentum.
Example Task Team Themes
Here are a few example areas where Task Teams work (linked to projects on the main WTN site):
- Conservation & Trails — exploring how trails can support biodiversity and ecosystem health
- Cities & Towns Trails — making sure people have access to trails in urban places, promoting walking, health, and equity
- Knowledge & Research — gathering information, linking researchers, and building resources
- Education & Inclusion — helping communities and trail users engage, learn, and participate fairly
- Media & Culture — storytelling, trail festivals, arts, and amplifying trail voices
How You Can Get Involved
It’s simple. If you have passion, expertise, or curiosity about trails, you can:
- Join a Task Team. WTN opens applications to new members; teams balance leadership roles with volunteer contributors.
- Contribute a project or idea. You don’t have to lead — you can bring a case study, a local project, or even a small suggestion.
- Participate in virtual meetings & events. Many teams host webinars, forums, and “Rendezvous” gatherings where all teams present their work.
- Link your local work. If your community is doing trail work, you can share or adapt those lessons through the Task Team network.
Throughout the World Trails Conference, the Task Teams will be hosting sessions where you can see their work in action, hear about current projects, and even join discussions with experts from around the globe. Whether you’re a trail professional, enthusiast, or simply curious, these sessions are a unique opportunity to explore how Task Teams turn ideas into real-world impact and connect with the people driving trail innovation worldwide.
