Students from Appalachian State University's Walker College of Business and faculty in the Department of Economics have recently conducted an economic impact study of biking and hiking trails in the Town of Beech Mountain.
The Parks and Recreation website says that:
“Beech Mountain is home to a vast network of hiking and mountain biking trails–perfect for elevating your sense of adventure and fine-tuning your harmony with nature. [There are] over 26 miles of hiking and mountain bike trails around the mountain, offering visitors focused perspectives of wildlife, waterfalls, and breathtaking scenery. There are trails for all abilities and ages, winding through wooded hideaways and lush, open balds.”
Appalachian economics majors Alexandra Desseyn and Parker Reid and MBA students Pauly Scott and Katherine Uva spent the summer of 2021 collecting data from hikers and mountain bikers. Katherine Uva co-authored the report.
The researchers found that the ride contributed $800,000 to the Town of Beech Mountain summer economy in 2021.
Read the full report at cerpa.appstate.edu.
About the Department of Economics at Appalachian State University
The Department of Economics in Appalachian State University's Walker College of Business is an intellectually vibrant place for students and faculty. As a research-intensive department committed to student learning, the department offers a wide range of courses that provide critical-thinking and problem-solving skills, complemented by student-faculty research collaboration. Our faculty members are engaged in research that contributes locally and globally in areas related to energy, environmental, development, trade, health, sports and tourism. The Department of Economics is ranked among the leading U.S. economics departments for research productivity, and is particularly strong in environmental and experimental economics. Learn more at economics.appstate.edu.
Students, faculty estimate the impact of hiking and biking in the Town of Beech Mountain
Beech Mountain Image with Research Icon