The Power of Trails in Promoting Physical Activity in Communities
A research brief highlighting findings about specific trail characteristics that appear to attract regular users and how they influence physical activity among populations.
Organization
Active Living Research
Publication Date
2011
Location
National or Global
Topic
Health
Infrastructure
Participation
Activity
Bicycling
Birding/Wildlife viewing
Camping
Climbing
Equestrian
Fishing
Hiking/Running
Hunting
Motorized sports (boat, snowmobile, ATV, etc.)
Paddling
Winter sports (downhill, Nordic, tube, snowshoe, snowmobile)
Related Resources
2021 Wisconsin Initiative on Climate Change Impacts
Climate Change Impacts Report
This 2021 report details the impacts and solutions of climate change in Wisconsin.
2010 Nelson Institute for Environmental Studies
Valuing Bicycling's Economic and Health Impacts in Wisconsin
A report estimating the value of bicycling to tourism and health in Wisconsin and reviewing the potential to increase that value in the face of changing demographics, lifestyles and the economy.
2015 Journal of Outdoor Recreation and Tourism
Benefits of Outdoor Recreation in Urban Spaces
A research article on the impact of outdoor recreation on emotional well-being and psychological resilience.
Explore the Trends Shaping Outdoor Recreation
Outdoor Industry Association: 2025 Outdoor Participation Trends Report
Bureau of Economic Analysis: 2024 Economic Statistics for Wisconsin
Adventure Travel Trade Association: Travel Market Sizing and the New Adventure Traveler
KOA: 2025 Camping & Outdoor Hospitality Report
American Sportfishing Association: Economic Contributions of Recreational Fishing
Measure What Matters