Although it is often overlooked, outdoor recreation contributes to and can be an indicator to the health of the economy. According to the Outdoor Industry Foundation, the recreation sector "supports nearly 6.5 million jobs across the U.S." Moreover, "The National Survey of Fishing, Hunting and Wildlife-Associated Recreation found that more than 87 million Americans, or 38 percent of the United States' population age 16 and older, pursued outdoor recreation in 2006. They spent $120 billion that year pursuing those activities." When the state of the economy is healthy, people have the financial freedom to spend more money, and enjoy more leisure time. This includes purchasing outdoor recreation equipment, trying a new activity, and traveling for recreation.

A primary example of how outdoor recreation can impact communities is Pennsylvania's Trail Town Program. This program aims to increase the economic impact of towns along the Great Allegheny Passage, which runs from Cumberland, Maryland to Pittsburgh. "The Passage hosted nearly 350,000 visits, generated $7 million in direct spending, and spurred more than 30 new businesses in Somerset County alone" (The Trail Town Program).

Outdoor Recreation is an imperative component of economies in all forms: local, state, and national. It is accessible in this region and offers limitless activities on all levels from walking to rock climbing. And of course, you'll probably get hungry along the way, or may want to find a place to spend overnight. Give those nearby restaurants and inns a boost. Help support the local economy.