Kansas Trails Inc.
OVERLAND PARK - With the intention of elevating Kansas as a destination for trails and outdoor connection, Kansas Trails, Inc. (KTI), has launched as the first statewide nonprofit organization dedicated to connecting, supporting and empowering the vibrant trail community across the state.
Designed to serve every trail organization, city, steward, and volunteer in Kansas, KTI aims to provide trail maps, expert resources, technical assistance, advocacy and support to help ensure Kansas trails are accessible, sustainable and thriving both now and for future generations.
“Kansas Trails, Inc., is here to empower everyone who loves, builds, and maintains trails,” said Mike Scanlon, KTI Executive Director. “We commit ourselves to developing and supporting trail systems that enrich public health, fuel local economies, and preserve the natural and cultural heritage of this state.”
As a central hub for trail enthusiasts, KTI offers an array of services and resources, including:
• Interactive maps to help Kansans discover trails (See KTI’s Kansas trail map);
• technical assistance and resources for communities and organizations to plan, design and construct sustainable trails;
• promotional assistance to help spread the word about trail events across the state and inspire more people to explore and take advantage of the benefits of connecting with the outdoors;
• networking and membership opportunities to help build and foster a statewide community of trail advocates (Become a member);
• advocacy and support to ensure Kansas trails are accessible, sustainable, and wellmaintained.
As part of its mission to connect and empower trail users, builders and communities, KTI recently launched its Trail.Talk.Tuesday free webinar series. The hour-long webinars, which started July 8, are scheduled for noon on the second Tuesday of each month through January 2026.
With topics ranging from planning, building and maintaining trails, to exploring and celebrating Kansas’ thriving trail network, the series has something for everyone who has a passion for trails. Register here for the next session on Aug. 12.
KTI also works in close partnership with state and local agencies to underscore the importance of trails in boosting outdoor recreation, rural revitalization, tourism, and community well-being.
“In every trail we support, every community we empower, and every mile we map, we carry forward the belief that Kansas belongs to all who walk it – now and for generations to come,” Scanlon said.
Born from a virtual roundtable of local leaders, nonprofits, and state agencies, KTI grew into a grassroots coalition. With startup funding from Sunflower Foundation, a statewide health philanthropy serving all of Kansas, KTI became an established nonprofit and was granted 501(c)(3) status by the Internal Revenue Service.
The organization is governed by a board of directors consisting of dedicated trail advocates, community leaders and outdoor enthusiasts from across Kansas.
For more information, visit: https://kstrails.org/