Critical Mass Summit's goal is to reduce barriers to participation in the trails, cycling, and active transportation community. We’re creating a space that prioritizes marginalized community members while inviting existing stakeholders to create an inclusive, vibrant, and healthy culture. The 2022 summit expands to include all genders in order to bring more allies to the table for discussion of trails, cycling, and mobility.
Welcome to the Critical Mass Summit
Testimonials
“CMS Attendee”
The inaugural Critical Mass Summit was so well done, from the way it engaged a diverse set of participants and presenters, to the quality and format of the sessions themselves. In a year filled with virtual conferences, it was by far the best I attended. Having three hosts that were together in-person, often with the speakers present as well, proved to be a winning engagement strategy for viewers at home and a welcome relief from the endless face-filled boxes of Zoom.
The content itself was incredibly accessible, whether you’ve been working in the industry for decades or are a casual biker wanting to get more involved in your local scene. I loved the emphasis on self-care and ritual, and the pains taken to create safe spaces for BIPOC to come together, as well as white allies. The variety in the sessions also showcased how bicycling encompasses many different fields, from transportation to politics to the outdoor industry to wellness.
“CMS Attendee”
[I loved] and learned so much from every session at [the] Critical Mass Summit. Every element from the speakers, the socio platform, and Avad3’s tech support was outstanding. Congratulations and thank you to the whole Critical Mass team for creating this much needed space. Both personally and professionally I am very grateful.
“CMS Attendee”
The Summit on Friday was such an incredible offering of content that I didn’t even realize I needed! It was so thoughtful, high-quality and of the moment – it really spoke right to my heart.
“CMS Attendee”
Such impactful topics that have already impacted and repositioned certain thought processes for me (like thinking of powers as neutral as opposed to negative or giving yourself permission to take up space).
“CMS Attendee”
[I enjoyed] the opportunity to meet people with whom I may not have crossed paths naturally via career path or community but with whom I have shared experiences & from whom I have Learned a lot. I wish there were more events like CM to provide these kinds of opportunities for learning, mentorship, growth & discussion; it was different than say a "Women's Conference" but I can't explain exactly why…
“CMS Attendee”
[I enjoyed] being able to meet the speakers on Saturday as they were participating as well. The vibe was peacefully purposeful.
“CMS Attendee”
Thank you for your hard work to put together an unforgettable inaugural summit. I was honored to [participate], and I was so thankful to be reinvigorated as a civic participant and woman. Thank you for walking the walk and for bringing us conversations/activism that will change our community for the better!
“CMS Attendee”
I really enjoyed the production, how even though it was virtual there was conversation among the hosts with the presenters. I also thought having an interactive session was awesome and I wish I'd registered early enough to get a swag bag and participate. I also just thought the subject matter was spot on and struck a great balance between advocacy and self-care.
“CMS Attendee”
Genuine energy from organizers. I think it was contagious and there was a positive vibe of encouragement, empowerment, and grace all around.
This summit is hosted by:


Trailblazers is a nonprofit formed in 2021 through the merger of NWA Trailblazers, an organization that has developed 300+ miles of multi-use trails, including the OZ Trails network, and BikeNWA, a bicycle advocacy and education-focused organization that has led the region in advocating for active transportation. Our core areas of work include trail development and maintenance, active transportation advocacy, and community education and outreach.
Our Great Sponsors

