WA has taken centre stage in the global trails community with last week’s 2026 World Trails Conference bringing together international trail leaders, government representatives, researchers, tourism operators and conservation experts to explore the future of trails.

Hosted by Outdoors WA in partnership with the World Trails Network, the conference attracted more than 260 delegates, with 54 per cent travelling from overseas and representation from 25 countries.

Under the theme ‘Trails to the Future: Connection, Culture and Conservation’, the three-day program explored how trails can connect people and communities, support sustainable tourism, protect natural environments and strengthen cultural understanding.

Outdoors WA chief executive officer Katie Brown said hosting the conference was an important opportunity to share Western Australia’s experience with the world while bringing home ideas and perspectives that could benefit local trails and communities.

“Trails are about so much more than getting from one place to another. They connect people with nature, culture, community and Country, while supporting outdoor recreation, tourism and regional economies.

“Bringing this international community here gives us the chance to showcase the incredible work happening in WA, learn from experiences around the world and build connections that will help shape the future of trails.”

The conference program featured 107 speakers and more than 65 sessions and workshops, covering trail planning and management, conservation, nature-based tourism, community participation and the evolving role of trails in connecting people with the outdoors.

First Nations knowledge and culture were an important part of the conference, recognising the deep and enduring relationships between Aboriginal people, Country and the landscapes through which trails travel.

Beyond the conference sessions, delegates experienced Western Australia’s trails firsthand through guided tours and outdoor experiences, with opportunities to discover the state’s diverse landscapes, meet local operators and learn from the people who care for and manage its trails.

The event also provided an opportunity to showcase the contribution of trails to outdoor recreation, nature-based tourism and regional communities, while strengthening relationships between Western Australia and the international trails industry.

Supported by the Western Australian Government, the conference is part of a broader effort to strengthen the State's outdoor recreation and adventure tourism offering and share its experiences with an international audience.

Opened by Environment Minister Matthew Swinbourn, the conference marked the first time this biennial global gathering has been held in the southern hemisphere, placing WA’s trails, landscapes and outdoor industry in the international spotlight.