filed under: economics of trails
The purpose of this report is to describe the economic, quality of life, public health, and other benefits that Mariposa County and its residents are likely to enjoy from the Merced River Trail based on research and experiences of communities with similar projects.
The Merced River Trail is a proposed recreational resource along the historic Yosemite Valley Railroad (YVRR) grade on the northern banks of the Merced River. The primary emphasis is on a nearly 40-mile segment of trail located entirely within Mariposa County, almost all of which is adjacent to a reach of river that has been designated Wild and Scenic by the federal government. Future trail segments will establish regional nonmotorized connections at the YVRR’s historic downstream terminus in Merced. Nearly 17 miles of the trail are managed for hiking, biking, and horseback riding. Other sections require restoration to clear landslides and improve trail accessibility.
The purpose of this report is to describe the economic, quality of life, public health, and other benefits that Mariposa County and its residents are likely to enjoy from the Merced River Trail based on research and experiences of communities with similar projects.
Published June 2020
Headwaters Economics is an independent, nonprofit research group that works to improve community development and land management decisions. We inform community decision-making and identify practical solutions by making complex data understandable, beautiful, and interactive, helping develop solutions to some of the most urgent and important issues that communities face.
National Park Service − Rivers, Trails and Conservation Assistance Program
This publication is designed to inform the reader about the services provided by the National Park Service – Rivers, Trails and Conservation Assistance Program.
Public Lands and the Continental Divide Trail Study
The primary goal of this study was to understand who uses the Continental Divide Trail (CDT), how they use it, their preferences, and the economic impact of the CDT in the region. Additional data were also collected regarding protecting public lands and using the Continental Divide Trail in Colorado.
2022 CDT Small Business Survey
From August to December 2021, the Continental Divide Trail Coalition surveyed 136 small business owners in 38 communities located along the Continental Divide Trail to learn more about how the Continental Divide Trail impacts their businesses, the local economy, and their support for public lands.
Improving Accessibility on Public Lands
Recommendations from American Trails
