Program Overview
The Trail Apprentice Program provides workforce training, leadership development, peer exchange, educational and networking opportunities for students and young professionals who are considering careers in trails and public lands.
Since 2009, the Partnership for the National Trails System (PNTS) has brought next generation attendees to its workshops and conferences. Hailing from across the country, these Trail Apprentices have brought valued perspectives and passion to the National Trails System community.
Beginning in 2020, virtual career exploration and team building activities were added to the program and in 2023 a project component and social media takeover was added to help Apprentices build hands-on skills. In 2025, the project component was expanded and Apprentices led a professional presentation.
In 2026, PNTS is looking to expand the program further by providing opportunities for project work that benefits individual National Trails and attendance at PNTS’s annual 2027 Hike the Hill® advocacy event.
2026 Program
The 2026 Program will run from September 2026 through March 2027. It will include additional skills-based trainings, project work with National Scenic and Historic Trails, and attendance at our annual advocacy event, Hike the Hill®. While attending 2027 Hike the Hill®, Apprentices will network with 80+ leaders in the trails community, lead a professional presentation, attend meetings with Federal agency leaders, and attend individual congressional meetings.
More 2026 Program Details and Application Coming Soon!
In 2025, Apprentices:
Participated in an educational orientation about the history of the National Trails System, public land management, priority topics in the trails community and the structure and activities of PNTS.
Completed projects that built skills in communications, fundraising, advocacy and policy, programs, video production, event planning, research and more.
Explored careers and built connections with Trail Apprentice alumni and established professionals who work in trails and public lands in a variety of disciplines including communications, volunteer management, trail operations, and land protection.
Completed 5 hours of volunteer work that benefited trails or public lands in their community and built local connections.
Attended the 2025 Lands Summit and Training in San Antonio, Texas and had the opportunity to attend educational presentations, trainings, and networking events with professionals in the National Trails community. The apprentices also led a presentation at the event and were an active part of our National Trails System joint planning sessions.
