The Partnership for the National Trails System (PNTS) is a small nonprofit that is a collective voice, a resource provider and a hub for exchange, learning, and action for the National Trails System. As the only 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization focused on the 30 National Scenic and Historic Trails (NSHT), PNTS brings together professionals, leaders and trail and hiking enthusiasts to promote a thriving, accessible, and inclusive National Trails System.

The PNTS Trail Apprentice Program provides scholarships to young leaders interested in a career in recreation, natural resource management, conservation, environmental studies, history, or a related field, so that they can attend the PNTS National Trails Workshop and participate in leadership development, career exploration, networking and educational opportunities amongst the National Trails community. This year, Apprentices will build leadership skills by working with a PNTS committee on a project to advance the work of PNTS. Committee projects may involve developing skills in social media, fundraising, advocacy and policy, event planning, programs, membership, finance, and more. Apprentices will work with PNTS to develop a project that aligns with their interests and PNTS needs. Please visit

for more information.

Eligibility:

Applicants must be between the age of 18–28 with an interest in the National Trails System.
Applicants must be able to attend committee meetings during the program. Meetings may occur between once a month and once every few months depending on the committee schedule. Meetings are expected to last for approximately one hour each and will be held via video conference (Zoom or MS Teams). Apprentices will need to complete tasks between meetings, and small group meetings may occur between Committee meetings.
Applicants must be available to attend the program orientation on April 18. Applicants must also be able to attend 3 out of the 5 planned virtual sessions.
Applicants must be able to commit to developing, completing and presenting on a project with support from PNTS staff and PNTS committee members.
Applicants must commit to attending in-person sessions at the 2023 National Trails Workshop to be held in Orlando, Florida from November 7th through November 9th, 2023. Travel to and from the event will likely include November 6th and November 10th.

The deadline to apply for the Trail Apprentice Program is February, 28th at 11:59 PM.

Please note that not every applicant is guaranteed a spot in the Trail Apprentice Program. This is a competitive program and positions are limited. Questions can be directed to Cara@pnts.org.

PNTS does not discriminate against any applicant on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, political affiliation or belief, age, or disability.