Characteristics and Behavior of Tourists Who Visited the George S. Mickelson Trail During the 2005 Peak Season
The George S. Mickelson Trail (GSMT) is a multipurpose recreational trail that spans 114 miles across South Dakota beginning in the Black Hills. Researchers compiled survey data from 2,388 trail users who resided outside of the Black Hills Region. They analyzed the perceptions and use patterns of tourism activity on the GSMT and found that respondents were primarily attracted to the trail by the scenery and mountain biking opportunities. Their marketing recommendations include increasing promotion strategies such as providing more shuttle services, creating an online system to buy daily and annual passes, and administering more information about the trail through online advertising and brochures.
Citation
Spencer, D. 2006. Characteristics and Behavior of Tourists Who Visited the George S. Mickelson Trail During the 2005 Peak Season. Submitted to Black Hills Community Economic Development/Mickelson Trail Coalition. Spearfish, SD: Center for Tourism Research, Black Hills State University.