Mountain Biking's Impact on Rural Communities Detailed in New Report
Mountain bikers spend $416 on average when visiting a community for the purpose of riding, according to a new study by the Trust for Public Land.
The report, "Economic Benefits of Mountain Biking," showcases how natural-surface trails boost rural economies while enhancing community well-being.
"Mountain biking offers an incredible opportunity for rural communities to harness their natural assets for sustainable economic growth," said J.T. Horn, Director of the National Trails Initiative at Trust for Public Land and one of the lead authors of the report. "With thoughtful planning and investment, trails can become powerful engines of prosperity and well-being."
Key findings of the report include:
Mountain biking tourists spend an average of $416 per visit, contributing to local businesses like lodging, restaurants, and retail establishments.
Spending-per-visit varies by trail location and type, but ranged from just over $100 to over $1,000 per visit.
Mountain biking trails create employment opportunities: across the 13 locations included in the report, the trail networks generated up to 1,626 jobs and $54.1 million in labor income each year.
TPL conducted a literature review to identify the direct and indirect economic benefits of mountain biking upon smaller communities. In addition to the $416 average individual spending, the report finds that the number of mountain bikers in the U.S. has rapidly increased over the past two decades, with about 8.7 million mountain bikers nationwide (ages 6+) as of 2021. 'Trailforks, an online trails management system and app, identifies more than 244,000 trails in the U.S. that are accessible to mountain biking, with a total distance of 313,778 miles (although many more unofficial trails exist as well).'
In addition to economic benefits, the report states that trails promote physical activity, "improving riders' physical and mental health while fostering social connectedness."
"Furthermore, proximity to trails can enhance property values, attracting new residents and boosting local tax revenue," the report states.
Mountain bike trail projects highlighted in the report include Vermont's Kingdom Trails network, where Yeti will hold it's new eastern Gathering this September. That trail system attracts 94,000 annual visitors and generates $10.3 million in local economic impact each year.Mountain biking trails in Chattanooga, Tennessee, support an estimated $7.4 million in local economic activity, according to the report. The former logging town Oakridge, Oregon, has revitalized its economy by investing in mountain biking, leading to increased tourism and new job opportunities. Asheville, North Carolina, has been able to shift its economy from manufacturing that was decreasing to tourism with an increase in bike shops, restaurants and lodging.The report also outlines best practices for trail development, including stakeholder collaboration, inclusive design, and long-term sustainability planning. By addressing potential challenges such as environmental impacts and housing pressures, communities can maximize the benefits of their outdoor recreation economies, the report states.
This research, conducted in partnership with the International Mountain Bicycling Association (IMBA) and supported by the Elliotsville Foundation and Norfolk Southern Railways, provides a comprehensive roadmap for communities looking to invest in their trail systems.
'This study presents more compelling evidence that communities enjoy a positive boost in wellness and economic activity when they create or improve access to resilient trails for all residents and visitors,' said Mary Monroe Brown, International Mountain Bicycling Association VP of Programs. 'We are thankful for our partner TPL for helping compile outstanding data and examples that all communities can use when advancing their vision for trails and outdoor recreation opportunities.'
The complete report may be viewed here.
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