The Natural Trail Experience

Monday, September 22

The Natural Trail Experience is a specialty experience offered as part of the Pennsylvania Greenways and Trails Summit, on September 22.

For the first time, the Summit features an educational track focused on natural surface trail systems, designed for trail builders and maintainers, outdoor planners, land managers, and community leaders. With hands-on workshops, expert-led discussions, and opportunities to connect with trail professionals, this addition promises to inspire and equip attendees with the tools and knowledge to elevate Pennsylvania’s trail networks.

Natural surface trails are more than paths through the woods—they are vital community assets that boost outdoor recreation, promote conservation, and stimulate local economies. Whether managing existing trails or planning new ones, this program offers valuable insights into sustainable practices, emerging trends, and successful projects, helping to strengthen Pennsylvania’s leadership in trail development.

Participants may choose to attend the “Experience” as a standalone event or include it as part of their two- or three-day Summit registration. In addition, tickets for the Sunday Reception and the Monday Reception & Dinner are available for anyone attending who wishes to extend their experience and enjoy more networking opportunities.

AGENDA

7:00-8:15 AM
Early Rise and Ride Outing: Mountain Biking Harrisburg’s Trails – Natural Surface Trails in the Heart of the Capitol!
(Optional portion of the “Experience”)
Explore Harrisburg’s Parkway Trails—natural surface paths linked to the Capital Area Greenbelt—offering an urban riding experience with “Trails within Trails.” The ride starts along Riverfront Park and Greenbelt, then continues on intermediate to advanced Cam & Pax Trails; riders must bring their own mountain bike or Class 1/3 e-bike and gear.

9:00-10:30 AM
Keynote Julie Judkins
From Armenia to Pennsylvania, Julie Judkins highlights trails as lifelines connecting people and places. This keynote explores how social trail networks and shared purpose transform trails into powerful movements for connection and healing.

11:00-11:45 AM
Panel: Why Natural Surface Trails Matter
Hear from a diverse panel of trail stewards, health professionals, and conservation leaders who will share insights on the ecological, recreational, community, and wellness benefits of natural surface trails.

11:45 AM – 12:15 PM
Lunch

12:15-1:00 PM
Panel: Building Success – How-to Techniques and Partnerships for Trail Development
Gain practical knowledge and inspiration from experienced trail builders, nonprofit leaders, and land managers who will discuss design considerations, maintenance strategies, funding approaches, and the importance of collaboration in creating thriving trail systems.

In the afternoon, participants can choose from two learning paths: 1) On-Site and; 2) Mobile.

On-Site Sessions

• 1:15-2:15 PM
  Large-Scale Infrastructure Project on Forest Land
  The Rothrock Trail Alliance leads a major project to build sustainable single-track natural surface trails in Pennsylvania State Forest, showcasing best practices in design, permitting, community engagement, funding, and construction. Their work highlights the importance of collaboration, environmental stewardship, and overcoming challenges with machinery on difficult terrain, serving as a model for future trail systems.
• 2:45-3:45 PM
  IMBA: Modern Trails—Principles, Challenges & PA Potential
  International Mountain Bicycling Association (IMBA) partners with communities to protect and create natural surface trails, adapting to changing user demands and technology. After years of a lighter presence in Pennsylvania, IMBA has re-engaged stakeholders and designated the state a priority due to its natural assets and strong trail heritage, sharing insights on modern trail development, challenges, and opportunities.
• 4:00-5:00 PM
  Long Distance Adventures: Planning the Tiltrock & PAW Mega Loops
  Two ambitious 300-mile loop trails are in development in Pennsylvania — the Tiltrock Loop in Bedford County and the Paw Mega Loop in the Pennsylvania Wilds. Both trails aim to connect existing paths into continuous hiking experiences that boost outdoor tourism, support local communities, and promote recreation; attendees will learn about progress and contribute ideas for their success.

Mobile Seminars

• 1:30-5:30 PM
  Hike, See, & Learn about Natural Surface Trails on the Appalachian Trail
  Explore upcoming improvements at Scott Farm, soon to be the Keystone Trails Association’s new headquarters, featuring enhanced facilities and collaborative stewardship of the Appalachian Trail and Conodoguinet Creek Water Trail. The experience includes a project tour, discussion on trail maintenance and volunteer efforts, followed by a three-mile hike highlighting trail design and construction techniques.
• 1:30-5:30 PM
  Experience Hershey’s Sweet Trails
  Susquehanna Area Mountain Bike Association partnered with Penn State Milton S. Hershey Medical Center to develop 11 miles of shared-use trails that attract over 22,000 visits annually and generate $500,000 in economic impact. This session includes a presentation on the trail development, economic study, and state championship plans, followed by a 2-3 mile beginner trail tour; participants must provide their own transportation and bikes.

Click here to view the full agenda.