2025 National Trails Lands Summit and Training
October 19, 2025 – October 23, 2025
Plaza San Antonio Hotel & Spa — San Antonio, Texas
The National Trails Lands Summit and Training will take place October 19-23, 2025 at the Plaza San Antonio Hotel and Spa in San Antonio Texas. The National Trails Lands Summit and Training will take the place of PNTS’s annual workshop in 2025.
Trail corridor protection is one of the most critical issues facing the National Trails System. This event will bring together Federal land managers, National Trails partners, local municipalities, land trusts and LWCF offices to address long term planning and mapping, collaborate to create a comprehensive review of trail corridor protection across the system, engage in system-wide strategic planning for corridor protection, and serve to provide knowledge of the future staffing needs of both agency and nonprofit partners to achieve this work.
Presentation and roundtable discussion topics may include trail mapping and national trail right of ways, protection and promotion of public access to trails, comprehensive plans and optimal location review, high potential sites and segments, land stewardship after acquisition, non-federal protection approaches, acquisition pathways that are not traditional, regional comprehensive trail planning that includes National Historic Trails, land acquisition 101, and much more. We will work together to identify resources and needs, system priorities, challenges and opportunities.
Call for Proposals
We are looking for proposals that provide education and training on topics that are directly related to trail corridor protection. We are looking for proposals that are very directed and topic focused, promote exploration of challenges and solutions, provide tools and resources, share best practices and specific examples of land protection work that has been done (case studies of success), facilitate collaboration and connection, and showcase innovative work.
Formats may include presentation with Q&A, roundtable discussion, panel, workshop, training, interactive discussion, modified open space and/or working group on common interest or area of expertise. We welcome sessions with one speaker as well as those with multiple speakers.
Additional information about proposal submissions:
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- Please include bios for all speakers, a session title, session synopsis, intended format of your session, intended audience for your session, and length of the session.
- More than one session proposal may be submitted, but each proposal should be submitted separately.
- PNTS will review proposals during May and reach out to those that submitted a proposal by June.
- PNTS may ask that speakers lead a session with other speakers who will present on a similar topic.
- The 2025 National Trails Lands Summit and Training is an in-person event. All speakers will be present on-site in San Antonio, Texas.
Due Date: Friday, May 2, 2025
Submit a Proposal Here
Become a Sponsor
Now more than ever, we need bold leadership to preserve our national trails for future generations. Join us and be part of this vital effort. this is an opportunity to align your brand with a high-impact movement that connects communities, preserves public lands, and inspires the next generation of outdoor enthusiasts. Your support helps to build a strong and united effort to protect America’s most treasured landscapes.
As a sponsor, your organization will:
- Support a nationwide movement to protect public lands and expand trail access
- Gain visibility with federal leaders, nonprofit trail partners, and land conservation experts
- Showcase your commitment to sustainability and outdoor access
- Help shape the future of America’s trails and landscapes
For information about ways you can sponsor the National Trails Lands Summit and Training, reach out to Ben Widdison, Corporate and Foundation Relations Associate, at ben@pnts.org.
Download Sponsorship Information
Plaza San Antonio Hotel & Spa
Located on historic grounds, this revitalized property is the gateway to San Antonio’s vibrant neighborhoods, bridging Southtown to downtown. Walkable access to La Villita, Hemisfair Park, River Walk, and Central Business District.
Book your room at the Plaza San Antonio hotel in advance now to receive our special rate of $249/night.