Photo by Jay Young, IronArchMedia. com
Spring is an opportune time to grab a group of friends and go biking on any number of West Virginia’ s tree-covered trails.
“ Places like Idaho, Colorado, Utah, eastern Tennessee, and western North Carolina invested in their outdoor assets first. People moved there because they wanted to live there, and businesses followed. West Virginia has the same opportunity, and in many ways, the same or better natural advantages,” Twilley says.
West Virginia boasts some of the nation’ s highest concentrations of world-class whitewater, rock climbing, hunting and fishing, off-highway vehicle trails, and rapidly expanding trail systems. Asset mapping shows the state has both the scale and diversity to compete nationally— provided investments focus on quality, accessibility and community integration.
“ This is about creating a shared narrative and a collective voice. We are not isolated
Photo by Jay Young, IronArchMedia. com
Scenic beauty are the two words often used to described the hills and mountains of West Virginia. Spring is a great time to take a stroll and enjoy nature.
organizations. We are an industry, and that matters when we advocate for smart, long-term investment,” Twilley says.
Research shows that tourism often precedes population increases by five to seven years, as visitors begin asking,“ Can
I live here?” Can I start a business here? Can I retire here? Can I buy a second home?
“ Tourism is West Virginia’ s red carpet,” Twilley says.“ When people have a great experience here, it opens the door to deeper commitments— relocating, investing, and putting down roots.”
Organizers emphasized that they want to position West Virginia’ s outdoor economy as a critical part of a broader economic development strategy alongside education, infrastructure, workforce development and energy.
“ This is about stewardship, health, conservation, recreation, and economic development working together,” Twilley says.“ Our outdoors are our secret sauce. If we lean into them and do it well, West Virginia’ s best days are ahead.”
SOUTH � SPRING’ 25 � 9