For trail builders across the United States, the dream of designing and constructing sustainable, world-class trails just got a lot safer—and smarter. Conservation United, a leader in innovative insurance solutions, has rolled out a groundbreaking Nationwide Trail Insurance Program tailored specifically for trail builders engaged in design/build work. This first-of-its-kind program combines General Liability and Professional Liability coverage, offering peace of mind to those shaping the great outdoors.
Why Trail Builders Need Specialized Insurance
Building trails isn’t just about moving dirt or sketching blueprints—it’s a complex craft that blends engineering, environmental stewardship, and artistry. Whether you’re designing a rugged singletrack for mountain bikers, a serene hiking path through a national forest, or an accessible urban greenway, the stakes are high. Mistakes, accidents, or unforeseen challenges can lead to costly claims, from property damage to lawsuits over design flaws.
Until now, trail builders often had to cobble together generic insurance policies that didn’t fully address the unique risks of their work. General Liability insurance covers bodily injury or property damage but it doesn’t touch the professional risks tied to design errors or project miscalculations. That’s where Professional Liability (often called Errors & Omissions) comes in, protecting against claims of negligence or faulty planning. Conservation United’s new program wraps both into one seamless package, custom-built for the trail-building community.
What Makes Conservation United’s Program Stand Out?
Conservation United isn’t new to supporting outdoor professionals. With a deep understanding of conservation and recreation industries, we’ve spent years fine-tuning coverage for niche fields. Our Nationwide Trail Insurance Program is the latest proof of that expertise. Here’s what trail builders can expect:
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Comprehensive Coverage: General Liability protects against third-party claims of injury or damage during construction, while Professional Liability covers design-related risks—like if a trail’s drainage plan fails and floods a nearby property.
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Nationwide Reach: Whether you’re breaking ground in the Rockies, the Appalachians, or a suburban park, this program is available coast-to-coast.
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Tailored for Design/Build: Unlike off-the-shelf policies, this insurance is crafted for trail builders who handle both the creative vision and the hands-on work—an increasingly common model in the industry.
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Affordable and Flexible: Conservation United knows trail builders range from solo operators to large crews. The program scales to fit different project sizes and budgets, ensuring accessibility without sacrificing protection.
Empowering Trail Builders to Focus on What Matters
The impact of this program goes beyond paperwork and premiums—it’s about empowering trail builders to do their best work without the constant worry of “what if.” Imagine designing a switchback-heavy descent knowing that a misstep in your grading plan won’t bankrupt your business. Or leading a volunteer crew to clear a path, confident that an unexpected accident won’t derail your career. That’s the freedom Conservation United is delivering.
Trail building is already a labor of love, often driven by a passion for connecting people with nature. But it’s also a profession fraught with risk—weather, terrain, and human error don’t always play nice. By offering a safety net that’s as rugged as the trails themselves, Conservation United is helping builders focus on crafting experiences rather than fearing liabilities.
A Step Forward for the Outdoor Industry
This isn’t just good news for trail builders—it’s a win for the broader outdoor community. Well-insured professionals are more likely to take on ambitious projects, innovate with sustainable designs, and collaborate with landowners or government agencies. The result? More trails, better built, and safer for everyone who uses them.
Conservation United’s move also signals a growing recognition of trail building as a legitimate, skilled trade deserving of specialized support. As biking, hiking, and outdoor recreation continue to boom, the demand for high-quality trails is skyrocketing. This insurance program ensures the people meeting that demand aren’t left exposed.
How to Get Started
Ready to dig into the details? Trail builders interested in the Nationwide Trail Insurance Program can reach out to Conservation United directly through our website or contact their team for a personalized quote. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just starting out, this could be the tool that keeps your business—and your trails—on solid ground.
