2025 Montana Outdoor Recreation Summit
October 21-23 | Billings, MT
Celebrating Community, Collaboration, and Conservation
The Montana Outdoor Recreation Summit is back in 2025 and is coming to Billings
The 2025 Montana Outdoor Recreation Summit, co-hosted by the University of Montana’s Institute for Tourism and Recreation Research (ITRR), the W.A. Franke College of Forestry and Conservation, and Outdoor Community Partners, will bring together leaders, innovators, and outdoor enthusiasts to collaborate, learn, and create partnerships that will shape the future of Montana’s outdoor recreation landscape.
This is a space where ideas take root, connections are forged, and real-world solutions emerge.
Summit Overview
Photo Credit: Visit Billings
Located in Billings, a city rich in history, culture, and outdoor adventure, the Summit will serve as a gathering place to convene, learn, and create partnerships that will guide solutions to the challenges we face in creating, building, and sustaining Montana’s outdoor recreation experiences. You can expect live panels, dynamic guest speakers, workshops, field tours, a film festival, and so much more.
We’re excited to build on the momentum of previous years and deepen our shared commitment to creating thriving, resilient communities across Montana and beyond.
Dates: October 21-23, 2025
Location: Northern Hotel and surrounding areas in Billings, Montana
WHAT THE SUMMIT WILL ACCOMPLISH
Montana’s outdoor recreation industry plays a vital role in our state’s economy, driving growth, enhancing quality of life, and fostering community well-being. As we face shifting challenges and opportunities, working collaboratively across industries and regions is essential to ensure a sustainable future. Growing demands on our outdoor resources call for innovative strategies that balance today’s needs with tomorrow’s priorities. By planning together, we can preserve what makes Montana’s outdoor recreation economy strong, resilient, and a key contributor to the well-being of our communities.
The 2025 Montana Outdoor Recreation Summit will explore three key themes, informed by feedback from past attendees and stakeholders across the state:
Navigating the Future of Outdoor Recreation: Sustainability, Climate, and Community Resilience
Strength in Collaboration: Partnerships, Funding, and Conservation in Action
Responsible Recreation for All: Health, Inclusivity, and Stewardship
SUMMIT CONTENT
From panels and workshops to field trips and a film fest, there will be something for everyone! Check back soon for more information.
We are excited to partner with American Trails to offer learning credits to attendees (included in registration fee). American Trails is a certified provider and can offer the following credits: AICP CM, LA CES (most HSW approved), NRPA CEU Equivalency Petition, and Other CEU/PDH Equivalency Petition for other accepting organizations. The amount and type of credits depend on each session. Learn more…
Who will attend
We expect more than 300 individuals to participate in the 2025 Summit, including:
- Recreation professionals, including guides and outfitters, retail and manufacturing companies, recreation and trail planners, and builders
- Outdoor recreation and education program providers, including those serving youth, disabled, and diverse communities
- Travel, tourism, and community development professionals
- Land managers, natural resource scientists, and public agency staff
- Policymakers, advocates, community leaders and influencers, visionaries, and philanthropic partners
- Conservation and stewardship professionals and volunteers
- Researchers and practitioners working at the intersections of outdoor recreation and health, education, economics, conservation, and restoration
- Students and early-career professionals exploring opportunities in outdoor recreation
LODGING OPTIONS
GROUP ROOM BLOCK
A limited number of discounted rooms are being held at the Northern Hotel for Summit attendees.
- $169.00: Classic King or Queen Guest Room, single or double occupancy
- $189.00: Classic Double Queen Guest Room, single or double occupancy
Click below to book or call the hotel at (406) 867-6767. Guests must request the Montana Outdoor Recreation Summit room block to receive the special group room block rates.
SPONSORSHIP OPPORTUNITIES
Aligning with Montana’s outdoor recreation community goes beyond business—it supports a way of life rooted in access, inclusion, and connection to nature. Whether you’re in the outdoor industry or a supporter, investing in this community ensures it thrives for all. Participating in the Summit offers a chance to collaborate with leaders shaping one of Montana’s largest economic sectors, fostering relationships and ideas that benefit all Montanans.
If you’re interested in becoming a sponsor, please click below or reach out to Glenna (glenna.tawney@umontana.edu) or Rachel (rachel1.shouse@umontana.edu).
SPONSORED BY
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