As an avid mountain and road cyclist who’s pedalled through countless small towns across the country, I’ve witnessed firsthand how cycling tourism is transforming local economies. What was once just a passionate hobby has evolved into a powerful economic driver for rural and small communities.
The Growing Trend of Bicycle Tourism
Bicycle tourism has seen exponential growth over the past decade. More riders are seeking authentic experiences away from urban centres, looking to combine their love for cycling with exploration of scenic, less-travelled routes. According to recent industry reports, cycling tourists spend on average 20% more than other types of tourists during their visits, making them particularly valuable to local economies.
Economic Benefits to Small Communities
Local Business Revival
Small towns along popular cycling routes have experienced remarkable transformations. Businesses that once struggled to stay afloat are now thriving thanks to the steady stream of cyclists passing through. Cafés, bike shops, breweries, and boutique accommodations have all benefited from this influx of visitors..
Job Creation
The rise in cycling tourism has created numerous job opportunities in small communities. From bike mechanics and tour guides to hospitality staff and trail maintenance crews, these positions provide valuable employment in areas that may have previously faced economic challenges.
Seasonal Balance
For communities that already have seasonal tourism (like ski towns), cycling helps balance the economic calendar by bringing visitors during traditionally slower months. This year-round revenue stream provides stability for local businesses and workers.
Infrastructure Investment
Communities that invest in cycling infrastructure see significant returns. Dedicated bike paths, clear signage, secure bike parking, and cyclist-friendly businesses all contribute to making a destination appealing to cycling tourists.
The initial investment in trail development and maintenance creates immediate construction jobs, while the long-term tourism benefits provide sustainable economic growth. Many communities have successfully leveraged state and federal grants to fund these projects, making them accessible even to towns with limited budgets.
Challenges and Considerations
While the economic benefits are clear, communities looking to capitalise on cycling tourism should be mindful of potential challenges:
- Balancing growth with maintaining the authentic character that attracts cyclists in the first place
- Ensuring infrastructure can handle increased visitor numbers
- Managing potential conflicts between different trail users
- Addressing seasonality and weather considerations
Tips for Communities Looking to Embrace Cycling Tourism
From my observations riding through communities that have successfully embraced cycling tourism, here are some key strategies:
- Engage local cyclists in planning and development
- Create cycling-specific maps and guides highlighting routes, difficulty levels, and points of interest
- Develop partnerships between local businesses to create package deals for cyclists
- Invest in basic amenities like water stations, bike repair stands, and secure storage
- Host cycling events to attract first-time visitors who may return for longer stays
Conclusion
As both a passionate cyclist and someone who appreciates the charm of small-town America, it’s been incredible to witness the positive symbiotic relationship between cycling tourism and local economies. Communities that embrace this trend not only benefit economically but often experience a renewed sense of identity and purpose.
The next time you clip into your pedals and head out on a multi-day cycling adventure, take a moment to appreciate how your journey contributes to the communities you pass through. Your coffee stop, overnight stay, and gear purchases are helping sustain these towns and creating a more bicycle-friendly world for all of us.
Written by Niall O’Riordan
