PA Allegheny Trails Fuel Record Tourism Boom

HARRISBURG, Pa. — Pennsylvania's outdoor recreation economy surged to $20.4 billion in 2024, a $1.5 billion jump that outpaced national growth, driven by trail expansions in the Alleghenies, state tourism officials announced. The 150-mile Great Allegheny Passage, stretching from Pittsburgh through five southwestern counties to Cumberland, Maryland, remains a cornerstone, attracting 800,000 to 1.4 million annual visits with a steady 2% upward trend.[1][2] In 2019 alone, trail users generated $121 million in economic impact, $19 million in tax revenue — including $8.7 million for state, county and local governments — and sustained nearly 1,400 jobs, per a Fourth Economy analysis.[1] Completed in 2013, the GAP has transformed former industrial towns into vibrant Trail Towns, where bike tourism sparked business growth as early as the mid-2000s. A 2015 report found two-thirds of local businesses expanded due to the trail, with overnight rider spending rising 27% from $98 in 2008 to $124.[3] Thru-riders logged over 63,000 visits in 2019, while day users comprised 89% to 94% of traffic, fueling commerce in places like Ohiopyle and Confluence.[2][3] Gov. Josh Shapiro's administration has amplified this momentum, growing the outdoor sector 21% since 2023 with 12,000 new jobs and 25% wage hikes in the field.[4] By launching the Office of Outdoor Recreation and boosting parks and trails, Pennsylvania positioned outdoors as a GDP driver at 2% of the commonwealth's economy. Officials credit these efforts for record visitor numbers amid expanded Allegheny attractions, blending recreation with economic revival.[4]