On 23 May 2025, representatives of the European Hiking Federation (ERA) board participated in the international conference “Practical solutions for accessible hiking, social involvement and inclusion, the role of the volunteer movement” held in Apšuciems, Latvia.

The event gathered experts and stakeholders from across the Baltic region and Europe to explore how hiking infrastructure and experiences can be more inclusive and socially engaging, especially for people with access needs. The conference was part of a broader initiative to highlight practical approaches and share local and regional experiences.

Topics addressed during the sessions included:

The impact of the Accessible Hiking project on accessibility improvements in Latvia and Estonia.
Involvement of visually impaired people in developing hiking trails, including the Coastal Hiking Trail and Forest Trail near Kuldīga.
Guiding inclusive hikes and the use of hiking wheelchairs on nature trails.
The role of volunteers in maintaining trail networks and promoting hiking culture.

ERA’s engagement in the conference reflects its ongoing commitment to promoting inclusive hiking and supporting best practices across Europe. ERA also used the opportunity to connect with regional partners, exchange knowledge, and explore future collaborations.

The conference concluded with a site visit to new accessible infrastructure on Apšuciems Beach, including boardwalks, a sun deck for wheelchair users, and changing facilities, showcasing real-world solutions that help make nature accessible for all.

This participation aligns with ERA’s broader mission of fostering accessibility, environmental respect, and cross-border cooperation in European hiking.