Outdoor Leadership Conference

Learn here.

Lead out there.

The Teens to Trails Outdoor Leadership Conference is an annual one-day event designed for teachers and adults leading youth outdoors. Whether you're just starting an Outdoor Club, program, or class—or have been leading trips for years—this conference is packed with practical tools, fresh ideas, and outdoor skills to help you launch a successful year of student adventures.

This conference brings together educators for a day of meaningful connections, engaging workshops, and resource sharing that leaves participants feeling energized and equipped to lead. From risk management basics to creative trip ideas, attendees walk away with new strategies to implement with their students.

Why should you attend? Learn from a teacher who joined us in 2025…

“I left the Outdoor Club Leadership Conference feeling far more informed about resources and good practices for club leaders--everything from how to outfit a club with gear, to where to camp and hike, to how to keep students safe and responsible in the wilderness. Teens to Trails does a great job of centralizing resources and making the lift of starting and maintaining an outdoor club lighter for teachers.” - 2025 Outdoor Club Advisor

What you’ll take away…

Sustaining an Outdoor Club

You'll walk away with practical tools and strategies to strengthen and sustain your outdoor club. Learn how to access free and discounted trips and resources, making outdoor experiences more affordable and accessible for your students. Gain insight into accessibility support strategies to ensure every student can fully participate, regardless of ability or background. You'll also pick up fundraising tips and advocacy techniques to help you secure funding—from small-scale fundraising efforts to making a case for your club in your school’s budget.
Hands On Outdoor Leadership Skills

Including:
✓ Setting up a camp kitchen
✓ Paddling instruction and safety
✓ First aid kit essentials
✓ Icebreakers and group development games
✓ Risk Management
✓ Fundraising Tips and Tricks
Conversation, Connection, & Community

This conference focuses on the power of conversation to create positive outdoor experiences. Attendees will explore how open dialogue fosters a sense of belonging, deepens relationships, and helps navigate the emotions that can surface in unplugged settings. Advisors will have designated time to connect with others in their region, sharing strategies and building a network of support for their outdoor clubs.

Event Details:

When:

October 2nd, 2026
- View the 2026 Conference Agenda for a sense of the day’s flow and programming
8 am - 3 pm, with optional overnight accommodations available

Location:

Pine Tree Camp - Rome, Maine (114 Pine Tree Camp Road Rome, Maine 04963)
Campus Tour - Pine Tree Camp is fully accessible. The conference is walkable, with golf carts available for participants with mobility or accessibility needs. Please contact programs@teenstotrails.org with any questions.

Cost:

Registration fee: $50 per participant
Overnight Accommodations: Free!
What’s included: A welcome packet filled with resources to kick off your school year, coffee and tea, a hot lunch (soup, bread, salad, and dessert!), plus snacks throughout the day.