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 last year…

“The best part of the conference was learning skills that I can take back and use in my class room now. The next best part was learning about new opportunities that I can access for my students in the near future. There was an incredibly positive vibe in the air. This conference took a bunch of educators who were already overloaded with the stress of starting a new year and infused us with the energy of the forest and the drive to get back on the trail of inspiring a new generation that needs us.” - 2024 High School 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
Maine's Outdoor Recreation Economy

The conference offers valuable insight into the growing outdoor recreation economy and its role in supporting youth and career readiness. Attendees learn about workforce development programs and emerging career pathways in Maine's outdoor sector, helping to bridge outdoor education with real-world opportunities for students.

Event Details:

When:

Held annually each fall, typically in late September
- View the 2025 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.

Interested in Joining Us for the 2026 Conference?

Stay Updated: Sign up for our mailing list or contact us at programs@teenstotrails.org to be notified when registration opens for next year’s conference.