Western Australia will welcome trail leaders, tourism professionals, land managers, conservation practitioners, outdoor recreation providers, First Nations representatives and policymakers from around the world when the World Trails Conference 2026 arrives in Perth from 19–22 October 2026.

Hosted by Outdoors WA on behalf of the World Trails Network, the conference is attracting delegates from across Australia and internationally, creating a unique opportunity to share ideas, build partnerships and explore the growing role trails play in tourism, conservation, community wellbeing, cultural connection and regional development.

Held every two years in a different destination around the globe, the World Trails Conference is recognised as the leading international gathering dedicated to trails and trail-based experiences. The 2026 event will showcase Western Australia’s world-class trail network while bringing together some of the most influential voices shaping the future of trails worldwide.

As demand for outdoor recreation and nature-based experiences continues to grow, trails are increasingly recognised as critical infrastructure that delivers economic, environmental and social benefits. Protected areas around the world attract more than eight billion visits annually, generating an estimated US$600 billion in visitor expenditure, while participation in bushwalking and trail-based recreation across Australia has grown by more than 80 per cent over the past decade. From driving regional tourism and supporting local businesses to improving community health and strengthening connections to culture and Country, trails are playing an increasingly important role in communities around the world.

The conference program features an extensive line-up of keynote presentations, panel discussions, workshops and case studies covering sustainable trail development, destination management, regenerative tourism, conservation, volunteer stewardship, community engagement, trail planning, outdoor recreation and First Nations connections to Country.

Delegates will hear from an inspiring line-up of Australian and international speakers, including adventurer and endurance athlete James Castrission, and Noongar cultural educator, author and storyteller Jayden Boundry, alongside a growing list of global trail leaders, tourism innovators, conservation practitioners and First Nations voices who are helping shape the future of trails around the world.

A standout feature of the event is the series of optional pre-conference tours, providing delegates with the opportunity to experience some of Western Australia’s most iconic landscapes, trails and outdoor experiences firsthand. Designed to foster meaningful conversations and lasting professional relationships, the tours offer an invaluable opportunity for networking, knowledge exchange and collaboration before the conference officially begins.

“Trails are far more than routes through the landscape,” said Lauren Stuart, Conference Director for World Trails Conference 2026. “They connect people to nature, culture, community and place. They encourage health and wellbeing, bringing moments of joy, calm and reflection, and offer a welcome pause from the pace of everyday life. They support regional economies, conservation outcomes and healthier communities. It is an honour to be hosting this event for the people responsible for trails around the world”

In addition to the conference program, a dedicated exhibition and sponsorship program offers organisations the opportunity to connect with a highly engaged audience of trail professionals, destination managers, government representatives, conservation organisations, tourism operators and industry leaders.

Current sponsors and exhibitors include AllTrails, Heyscape, Paddy Pallin, WA Better by Nature, Bruce Trail Conservancy, Taiwan Thousand Miles Trail Association, Mirliny, Paul Pichugin and Adventure Smart WA, with additional organisations continuing to join the event.

The conference is expected to appeal to a broad audience, including:

• Trail managers and planners
• Tourism operators and destination marketers
• Parks and conservation agencies
• Outdoor recreation organisations
• Adventure tourism businesses
• Local, state and national government representatives
• Land managers and environmental practitioners
• First Nations organisations and cultural tourism operators
• Volunteer groups and trail associations
• Researchers, academics and students
• Outdoor education providers
• Community recreation leaders

With registrations open, organisers are encouraging those working in, supporting or passionate about trails to secure their place and be part of one of the most significant gatherings of trail professionals ever held in Australia.

Western Australia’s globally recognised trails, unique landscapes and strong connections to culture and Country provide an ideal backdrop for conversations that will help shape the future of trails both nationally and internationally.

For more information, delegate registrations, sponsorship opportunities and exhibition packages, visit the World Trails Conference 2026 website.