Have you ever wondered what goes into creating a network of hiking and biking trails?

The City of San Luis Obispo invites community members to learn just that by attending a free educational presentation celebrating the 30th anniversary of the San Luis Obispo Greenbelt on Thursday.

The presentation title Designing Special Experiences on Trails: A System Wide Approach to Trail Construction will take place on Thursday, June 11, 2026, from 6 to 7:30 p.m. in the SLO Library Community Room at 995 Palm Street.

Led by SLO Ranger Service’s Trail Project Lead, Niels Grether, the presentation will offer an inside look at the philosophy, planning, and design principles that shape the City’s trail network.

“Our approach to trail design, construction, and management has matured significantly over the last decade,” said Grether. “This presentation gives a window into the modern philosophy and techniques born of that evolution.  With thoughtful design, each trail can be crafted to deliver a unique user experience.  And when you combine those unique trails into one trail system, you can ensure diverse users all have access to trails that fit their needs.”

Whether you're a trail enthusiast, conservation advocate, outdoor recreation user, or simply curious about the work that goes into creating and maintaining San Luis Obispo's trail network, this presentation offers an opportunity to learn more about the people, planning, and stewardship behind one of the community's most valued resources.

Attendees will learn how the City's Ranger Service has evolved its trail construction program over time and how thoughtful trail design creates unique outdoor experiences while supporting long-term environmental stewardship.

The event is one of several community activities planned this summer to commemorate the 30th Anniversary of the San Luis Obispo Greenbelt, which was formally established in 1996 to conserve and protect the scenic hillsides, agricultural lands, wildlife habitat, and natural landscapes surrounding the city. Attendees will receive a commemorative SLO Greenbelt 30th Anniversary bandana while supplies last.

Today, more than 8,000 acres of open space have been permanently protected through the Greenbelt Program, helping preserve the natural character that makes San Luis Obispo unique while providing opportunities for recreation, education, and environmental conservation.

Get more details about other 30th Anniversary events at www.slocity.org/Greenbelt.

Media Contact: SLO Ranger Service, Trail Project Lead, Niels Grether, NGrether@slocity.org