By Mitchell Roland/[email protected]
The Packwood Trail Project (PTP) has launched a survey of East Lewis County residents and visitors to find out how the organization can increase off-season tourism in the area.
While the region sees a surge in visitors in the summer due to recreational trips to rural Lewis County, the PTP is looking for ways to increase visitation in the fall and spring when tourism declines significantly.
Those who complete the survey, available at https://survey123.arcgis.com/share/3d80bbc40b1843ed819d1070d15f90af, can win a $100 gift card to Packwood Brewing Company.
“The most important thing we do is listen to the community,” said Jon-Paul Bowles, CEO of Destination Management Advisors, the firm hired by PTP to develop a shoulder season strategy. “We’ve heard loud and clear that more and more tourism is not the solution for Randle and Packwood, so we’re exploring ways to help local businesses generate more tourism revenue, especially in the fall and spring.”
According to PTP, while tourism can be an important source of economic activity in rural communities, the increase in visitor numbers can lead to congestion on roads. PTP is exploring the potential for new trails near towns to improve access for residents and visitors while reducing the need for cars.
“The Packwood Trail Project is a small nonprofit organization with a simple idea to create a trail system that connects the city, is accessible by foot and bike, and can be used year-round,” said Elise Woodsmith, a PTP executive and part owner of Packwood Brewing Company.
The off-season strategy development project is funded by a grant from Lewis County LTAC funds. East Lewis County residents and business owners with questions can contact [email protected].
“We know that people come to Randall and Packwood to enjoy the outdoors, but often leave town to explore the area,” Bowles said. “That means more cars on the road and less money spent at local businesses. We’re looking for ways to reverse that scenario.”
