New data from the U.S. Department of Commerce’s Bureau of Economic Analysis (BEA) shows that outdoor recreation generated $2.3 billion in economic activity in West Virginia in 2024, supporting 21,936 jobs and $1.0 billion in wages and compensation across the state.
The Thriving Communities Program (TCP) was established by the U.S. Congress through appropriations to the U.S. Department of Transportation (USDOT) in fiscal years 2022 and 2023. The program is designed to help communities—especially those with limited capacity—access federal funding and advance transportation and infrastructure projects that support long-term economic vitality.
Their involvement with GVORBA reflects a shared commitment to building sustainable outdoor recreation, fostering local connections, and helping shape the Greenbrier Valley into a premier destination for trail enthusiasts across the region.
After eight years of visioning, planning, and partnership-building, Elkins Area Shared Trails (EAST) is proud to unveil the Phase 1 trail design in the Potomac-Cheat District of the Monongahela National Forest—a major milestone in creating a more connected, inclusive, and sustainable outdoor experience for the Elkins area.
One of the most responsible and sustainable ways to grow the outdoor economy is by enhancing and utilizing what already exists rather than building something entirely new. That’s exactly what Mountaineer Gravel does—repurposing West Virginia’s thousands of miles of unpaved public roads and rail trails into a world-class gravel cycling network.
As West Virginia’s outdoor economy grows, so does the importance of sustainable tourism—ensuring that recreation benefits communities long-term without compromising the landscapes that make these experiences possible. The OEDC works with key partners like the many Conventions and Visitors Bureaus and tourism departments in WV to not only promote outdoor destinations but to actively invest in their development, stewardship, and accessibility.
The journey to advance the outdoor economy in West Virginia is a collective effort, one that a single organization or institution cannot achieve. The true power lies in the collaborative spirit of our excellent partners, visionaries, and champions spread across the state. This month, we're thrilled to spotlight those making a significant impact on the ground.