Since 2009, the Partnership for the National Trails System, with the support of its federal partners, has brought next generation attendees to its conferences and workshops. Hailing from across the country, these Trail Apprentices have brought valued perspectives to the trails community. A cornerstone of the program has been attending either the PNTS conference or workshops.

2024 Trail Apprentice Program

The Partnership for the National Trails System (PNTS) is pleased to announce the 2024 Trail Apprentice Program for emerging leaders aged 20 to 28 years. The PNTS Trail Apprentice Program provides scholarships to young leaders interested in a career in recreation, natural resource management, conservation, environmental studies, history, or a related field, so that they may attend the PNTS National Trails Workshop and participate in leadership development, career exploration, networking and educational opportunities amongst the National Trails community. The 2024 program will begin in August 2024 and end in February 2025.

This year, a small group of Apprentices will build leadership skills by working with PNTS on a project. The projects may involve developing skills in social media, fundraising, advocacy and policy, programs, and more. Apprentices will provide valuable perspectives to PNTS work and leave the program with hands-on experience and a greater knowledge of priority issues in the trails community. Meet the 2024 Trail Apprentices here.

In addition to working on a project with PNTS, the program will include orientation to the National Trails System, career exploration and team-building virtual sessions and attendance at the 2024 National Trails Workshop November 17th– 21st in Tucson, Arizona. PNTS will provide workshop registration, lodging, and a per diem for meals to those selected for the program. The workshop offers trainings and skill-building opportunities covering an array of topics important to trails such as management and stewardship, land protection, engagement, policy and advocacy and more. Those selected for the program will be an active part of the workshop dialogue, engaging in sessions and networking amongst the National Scenic and Historic Trail (NSHT) communities as well as many other communities not traditionally associated with the NSHTs.

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