The outdoor recreation economy is booming. And the Greenbrier Valley, a long-time player in this industry, is more than ready to reap the benefits. Trail development throughout the three-county region is driving more and more traffic to our outdoor landscape, and to our small towns and businesses. The Greenbrier Valley EDC supports infrastructure development in this growing industry with some great partners.
Industry Growth
Outdoor recreation ranks among the nation’s largest economic sectors. In 2022, the US Department of Commerce’s Bureau of Economic Analysis reported that outdoor recreation generated an impressive $563.7 billion in economic output nationally, accounting for 2.2% of the total gross GDP that year. In 2023, according to the Outdoor Industry Association, “the outdoor recreation participant base grew 4.1% to a record 175.8 million participants: 57.3% of all Americans aged six and older.”
West Virginia has long been a favorite destination for those seeking to experience its exceptional natural beauty and world-class outdoor recreation assets. The Greenbrier Valley, with its distinctive topography and network of trails, offers unparalleled outdoor experiences. With even more users, new trail experiences are driving additional opportunities.
How a trail contributes to economic development
Trails can contribute significantly to communities and local economies. Trails and outdoor recreation areas boost tourism, drawing visitors who spend money on lodging, food, equipment, and other services, thus supporting local businesses and creating jobs. Additionally, trails enhance property values as proximity to these natural areas is highly desirable.
Beyond the economic benefits, trails and outdoor recreation promote physical and mental well-being, reducing healthcare costs by encouraging a healthy lifestyle. Trails also foster a sense of community by providing spaces for social interaction and engagement with nature, which can lead to increased civic pride and environmental stewardship. Overall, the development and maintenance of trails and outdoor recreational spaces represents a sustainable investment in public health, economic growth, and community vitality.
Beyond the economic benefits, trails and outdoor recreation promote physical and mental well-being, reducing healthcare costs by encouraging a healthy lifestyle. Trails also foster a sense of community by providing spaces for social interaction and engagement with nature, which can lead to increased civic pride and environmental stewardship. Overall, the development and maintenance of trails and outdoor recreational spaces represents a sustainable investment in public health, economic growth, and community vitality.
Greenbrier Valley EDC’s Work
Because of the importance of the outdoor industry to the region, our bountiful natural assets, and the positive impact of trails on quality of life, Greenbrier Valley EDC is proud to partner on a few great projects. Read on for more.
Allegheny Trail: This year the West Virginia Scenic Trails Association is celebrating a remarkable 50 years of trail stewardship in creating, maintaining and enhancing the Allegheny Trail, West Virginia’s longest hiking trail. The 300+ mile trail winds from the Mason Dixon line in Preston County through the eastern counties of WV and ends on Peters Mountain in Monroe County where it connects to the Appalachian Trail. The trail passes through all three of our Greenbrier Valley Counties.
In partnership with the WVSTA, the Greenbrier Valley EDC was recently awarded $250,000 through a Federal Land Access Program Grant. The grant will fund wayfinding signage identifying trail access points along roadways in Monroe, Greenbrier, and Pocahontas counties. Informational kiosks will be placed at the Seneca State Forest and at the Monongahela National Forest border. And the construction of a footbridge will allow for easier crossing at Beaver Creek. These efforts to help trail users navigate and find entry to the celebrated trail brings more traffic into the towns and shops that line the trail – places like the Mon Forest town of Durbin, WV.
To learn more and to help celebrate their 50th year of trail blazing – check out WVSTA’s Anniversary Celebration at the Greenbank Observatory September 6-8.
Meadow River Rail Trail: The Greenbrier Valley EDC is also teaming with several key organizations to enhance access to the recreational assets along the Meadow River Rail Trail.
The Meadow River Rail Trail is a planned 23-mile Rail Trail along its namesake. The Nallen Trailhead accessing 9 miles opened in 2023. Phase III brings the trail into Rainelle (another 9.7 miles that is currently open for bid) and is expected to open in 2025.
The trail working group includes the Greenbrier Environmental Group, the New River Gorge Regional Development Authority, the Meadow River Valley Association, the Greenbrier Valley EDC and Greenbrier West High School. Together, we are focused on making the Meadow River Rail Trail more accessible and enjoyable for many user groups including hikers, kayakers, cyclists, and rock climbers. While the Greenbrier and Fayette County Commissions are handling the buildout of the trail infrastructure, this partnership focuses on boosting local tourism, business, and amenities in the areas surrounding the trail. Additionally, it provides invaluable opportunities for students to engage with and contribute to their community.
The Meadow River Valley has a tremendous amount of potential. You can provide your input by completing the Meadow River Recreational Corridor Survey, or attend a workshop on August 1, 2024, 5-7 p.m., at Freefolk Brewing in Hico, WV.
These are just two of the amazing outdoor recreation projects happening in the Valley. As we have previously reported, efforts from the Snowshoe-Highland Ride Center collaborations are continuing. With Monday Lick trails completed soon, the Silver-Level ride Center is going for Gold – securing more travel and economic opportunities for the win.
We recognize that investments in trails and outdoor spaces are strategic – providing economic stimulus to revitalize towns located along those trails and enhancing quality of life for residents and visitors alike. We’re happy to have many great partners who are literally building trails to success.
