Curt Gowdy State Park (WY), IMBA Ride Center
At the Bicycle Tourism Conference in San Diego in 2014, I was invited to talk on stimulating mountain bike tourism and what cyclists and mountain bikers are looking for. Here is the bullet list outline from the talk. While this is mountain bike tourism specific, it’s safe to apply these same principals to road and gravel biking tourism. I’d be happy to help you develop and implement a detailed plan to move these forward in your community, marketing, content and on the ground for your destination. You can view our process and services here.
1.Provide and promote trails for all abilities
Quality trails are the “product” that will define your destination. Do you have something for all levels: beginners, intermediate and advanced riders; and kids, families to enjoy?
2.Develop sustainable singletrack
Sustainable trails are durable and stand the test of time, weather, water and other factors. Well built trails are not only fun to ride, but good for the environment.
3.Showcase the natural beauty
Great routes and trails bring out the best highlights in your area. Historical sites, interesting features and natural beauty brings out the cameras and makes for memorable rides.
4.Good signs and maps
This is critical and often overlooked. Invest in good way-finding system of signs and maps. Paired with quality trails and routes, riders will return and tell their friends.
5.Help the community understand MTB
All the businesses in your community may not be “on board” with a mountain bike (MTB) tourism push. Facilitating a process and providing training can bring the community together to embrace this growing segment of the tourism market.
6.Get your community involved
Cycling visitors are looking for well rounded experiences, from coffee in the morning to beers in the afternoon, dinner out and a relaxing soak. Get all the businesses and services in your community involved.
7.Seek support from local shops
Local shops are key to providing service and local knowledge. Shops often have the best guides, can help inform and educate your guests and push your image out via their websites and social media.
8.Provide lodging with cyclists in mind
See our related blog on Bike Friendly Hotels
9.Photograph your trails professionally
Great photography and videos will help dramatically in your marketing. Make sure the bikes and equipment are current and hire a pro to show your best sides. We can help guide your content development and attract media attention.
10.Promote other amenities in the area
Give your cycling guests opportunities to explore the area, stick around for a rest day and take in cultural, historical or culinary delights.
11.Create package deals
Everyone loves a good deal. Design packages for overnight, multi-day, tours or themed packages. Change them up for the season.
12.Woo the media
Bringing media and journalists to your destination and providing a professional calendar driven public relations effort will pay off.
13.Quantify your success
It’s important to benchmark and analyze your progress. We can help develop your cycling assets and program measurable improvements in dimensions such as guides, shuttles/transport, hotels/lodging, diverse trails/routes, website, maps/signage, bike culture and the impact on visitation.