Summit FAQ
The Summit is a one-day gathering for leaders and professionals working across the outdoor recreation ecosystem. Through keynote talks, panel discussions, and networking sessions, attendees explore the future of outdoor recreation in our region.
The Summit will take place on Thursday, August 20, 2026, at .ZACK (3224 Locust Street, St. Louis, MO 63103). A full schedule will be released soon.
The Expo is a public event celebrating outdoor recreation through gear, activities, and experiences. The Summit is a smaller, purpose-driven gathering focused on dialogue, leadership, and collaboration among people working to grow the outdoor community.
The Summit is designed for anyone shaping the future of the outdoors, including:
- Outdoor industry professionals
- Nonprofit leaders and conservation advocates
- Park and land management professionals
- Educators and youth program leaders
- Entrepreneurs and innovators
- Community organizers and policymakers
If your work connects people with the outdoors, this event is for you
Yes. Attendance is free thanks to the support of our partners and sponsors. Registration is required so we can ensure a productive and engaging experience for all participants.
To register, visit https://2026GatewayOutdoorSummit.eventbrite.com
The Summit will feature keynote presentations, panel discussions, and facilitated conversations on topics such as access and equity, conservation, education, economic impact, and the future of outdoor recreation.
Yes. In addition to formal sessions, the Summit includes intentional networking time designed to help attendees build partnerships, share ideas, and collaborate across sectors.
We welcome ideas from the community. If you have a suggestion for a speaker, topic, or session format, please reach out through our contact page.
Organizations interested in supporting the Summit through sponsorships or partnerships are encouraged to contact us. We offer a variety of opportunities to help organizations contribute to the conversation and strengthen the regional outdoor ecosystem.
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