While not traditionally viewed as attractions that contribute to tourism and local economies, trails have become destination-worthy sites and formidable economic generators. Trails and tourism have become intertwined to the benefit of communities, small businesses and points of interest. To achieve maximum impact, the trails must become even more connected to "beyond the trail" opportunities.
The Trail Tourism Strategy Project, which includes this strategy document, set out to:
- Inventory tourism attractions along the Industrial Heartland Trails Coalition (IHTC) trail corridors;
- Assess overall destination appeal and visitor readiness of the trails; and
- Develop a strategy for marketing IHTC trails.
This study was produced with support from the Pennsylvania Environmental Council and the Claude Worthington Benedum Foundation.
