Professional TrailBuilders Association
About PTBA
The Professional TrailBuilders Association (PTBA) is the non-profit trade association for the trail industry representing private-sector companies who plan, design and build trails worldwide.
PTBA’s mission is to advance the trail industry by promoting quality and professionalism.
PTBA’s vision is a thriving trail industry that:
Establishes industry best practices
Builds a robust and skilled workforce
Fosters a strong and supportive professional network
Is recognized as an integral part of the outdoor recreation economy
Continues to evolve and grow
Trailbuilders Featured in National Geographic
National Geographic has published a feature on trailbuilders - and not just online, but in the full print edition. This kind of coverage is a big moment for trails and trail professionals.
Huge thanks to everyone who contributed time, insight, feedback, and photos to help make this story possible, especially Jed Talbot and Willie Bittner for representing
PTBA Turns 50!
In 2026, PTBA marks 50 years of advancing the trail industry—from early breakthroughs in mechanized trailbuilding to establishing shared standards, professionalism, and a global community of trail planners, designers, and builders.
All year long, we’ll reflect on the people, projects, and partnerships that built this foundation—and the next generation carrying the work forward.
Learn more about PTBA’s legacy and join us at the 2026 Sustainable Trails Conference in Boise, Idaho, and throughout 2026 as we honor five decades of trailbuilding excellence.
2026 Webinars
PTBA is proud to partner with American Trails for the fifth year on the Advancing Trails Webinar Series—continuing our shared commitment to high-quality, practical training for trail professionals.
The 2026 lineup includes sessions on aggregate surfacing, stonework, and bridge construction. Explore this year’s topics or revisit past PTBA webinars, all publicly available to support your continued learning.
A Career in Trails
Thanks to Maine Outdoor Brands for telling the story of the outdoor industry in Maine through their Day on the Job series - including a day on the job as a trail professional!
Are you interested in pursing a career in trails? Check out this online resource to explore the roles, skills, training, and pathways that lead into professional trailbuilding.
2026 Conference in Boise
The 2026 Sustainable Trails Conference in Boise brought together 430 trail professionals for a dynamic, high-energy week of learning, connection, and hands-on experience.
The conference program featured a mix of hands-on workshops, technical sessions, and peer learning opportunities that reflected the depth and complexity of today’s trail industry. The conference also highlighted the importance of building a stronger, more inclusive workforce. The 5th annual women’s gathering and second women’s mechanized workshop created space for connection, skill-building, and continued progress across the industry.
2025 Member
Company Impact
Logged 2.85 million hours of professional trail work
Constructed 3,000+ miles of trail
Designed 4,000+ miles of trail
Designed and constructed 200 bike parks
Delivered 250 trail master plans
Built 5 miles of bridges
Led 200 trail trainings
Photo: TrailScapes PTD LTD
In 2025, PTBA Member Companies developed trails worldwide.
40 countries worldwide
40 US states
8 Canadian provinces
5 Australian states and New Zealand
10 European countries
7 Asian countries
4 Central and South American countries
A Growing Trail Industry
Over the last decade, PTBA member companies have experienced substantial growth in both economic impact and workforce capacity. Since 2012, reported gross revenue has increased from $25 million to $220 million annually—an increase of nearly 800%. During the same period, the number of companies represented has grown from 64 to 150, while average reported revenue per company has increased from approximately $391,000 to nearly $1.5 million.
Though PTBA represents just a portion of the broader trail industry, this data reflects continued investment in trails and the increasing scale, professionalism, and economic impact of the field.
Data source: PTBA Member Company annual surveys
Apply for PTBA Membership
PTBA is the professional trade association representing private-sector companies in the trail industry.
To ensure a high standard of quality and professionalism, all prospective member companies undergo a thorough vetting process. Applicants submit a detailed online portfolio that includes project documentation, references, and sponsorship from a current PTBA member. The review process also includes a member interview and a vote by the full PTBA membership.
Next deadline: October 16, 2026
Photo: Allegra Trails
The PTBA Vendor Network
The PTBA Vendor Network is an opportunity for companies that sell products that support the trail industry such as tools, equipment, bridges, trail counters, etc.
The quality and application of products to the trail industry are assessed by PTBA prior to inviting companies to join.