Connected by Trails: Linking People, Nature, and Prosperity in Rural Areas
At the 2024 IMBA Europe Summit, we discovered how mountain biking can contribute to peri-urban development, and what challenges mountain bikers face at the borders of towns. This year, once again we leave the towns and embark on a very different journey.
Our 2025 hosts, the town of Boltana and the MTB Kingdoms have a special success story. It is a story of resilience in the face of adversity in the Spanish Pyrenees, a region that battled against oblivion in the 20th century. Mountain biking has not only contributed to the transformation of the area into a unique riding destination, but it also spearheaded a movement to save a unique cultural heritage, a way of living that’s being revitalised – in no small part thanks to mountain biking.
Under the theme “Connected by Trails”, we will explore how mountain biking can support rural development through a systemic approach.
This year’s summit will focus on the intersection of sustainability—environmental, social, and economic—and the cultural dimension of our sport. Trail advocates, representatives of tourism operators and boards, industry professionals, researchers, and leaders from the mountain biking community will present, and panel discussions and workshops will be held. We hope that the summit will provide an excellent opportunity for everyone in our community to discuss another advocacy-driven dimension of our sport.
Environmental Sustainability
Mountain biking plays a vital role in promoting environmental stewardship. Well-designed trails minimise ecological impact while encouraging outdoor recreation and fostering a deep connection to nature. This theme explores how trail networks can support conservation, biodiversity, and sustainable land use practices. It also examines how regulations, such as the Nature Restoration Law that will apply in all EU member states, impact trail development and offers guidance on how to work with these frameworks to balance recreation with ecological restoration.
Social Sustainability
Mountain biking brings communities together. Trails create inclusive spaces for recreation, improve quality of life, and encourage active lifestyles. This theme highlights how mountain biking strengthens social bonds, promotes health and well-being, and supports equitable access to nature for all. Additionally, this topic could be blended with economic sustainability by focusing on the social return on investment (SROI) of trail projects, showcasing how they deliver both community and economic benefits.
Economic Sustainability
How can mountain biking drive sustainable economic growth in rural areas? We will highlight the economic benefits of trail systems in rural areas—through tourism, job creation, or support for local businesses.
Cultural Dimension
Trails tell stories. From traditional land use to modern recreation, mountain biking is deeply connected to the cultural identity of communities. This theme focuses on preserving heritage, celebrating diversity, and fostering connections between riders and the places they explore, while also emphasizing how increased participation can invite broader engagement and promote inclusivity within the sport.
To learn more about how Boltaña’s unique historical trails contributed to our theme this year, read the following article: