How Chuck rolled out the welcome mat
How Chuck rolled out the welcome mat
The importance of a culture of welcoming visitors on the trail
I enjoyed the fast downhill into Connellsville, more so as raindrops hit my glasses. I heard someone call out, "Hey, come over here!" I hopped off my bike and walked towards Santa’s doppelganger in front of the town's visitor center. It would be a lasting memory of this tour.
It was the second day of my six-day roundtrip tour on the Great Allegheny Passage. Chuck turned a brief rain shower into a pleasant experience with his friendly conversation and laughter. He demonstrated how locals can make visitors feel welcome and leave with a positive impression of the town.
The Great Allegheny Passage was the birthplace of the Trail Town movement, which significantly boosted the economy and tourism of Southwest Pennsylvania and Western Maryland. This initiative increased the trail's visibility and established its reputation as a premier destination for hiking, biking, and outdoor recreation.
Amy Camp's book, Deciding on Trails, outlines seven practices for creating healthy trail towns. Among these, 'Cultivate a trail culture' and 'Extend an invitation' are particularly important and require minimal to no money for infrastructure and amenities.
Before retiring from my career in corporate Information Technology, I focused on long-term strategy and architecture. I learned that long-range success often hinges on addressing smaller, easier tasks first, which can pave the way for tackling more complex challenges.
Welcoming and inviting are the keys to moving the remaining five practices forward. This is especially true in funding trails, trail amenities, and growing businesses in towns. When you welcome people on the trail and into town, the magic of trail towns gains foot and grows.
Back to Chuck at Connellsville
Chuck went above and beyond by engaging in a friendly conversation and showing genuine interest in me as a visitor. He invited me to explore the town, highlighting the bike shop, ice cream parlor, coffee shop, and restaurants. He wished me a safe and enjoyable journey with an invitation to return. The guy gets an A++ on his Trail Town report card.
What makes Chuck so successful at welcoming visitors? He possesses many skills and qualities that create a positive experience for guests.
Chuck had a deep knowledge of the area and could provide accurate, helpful information. He was an excellent communicator who could engage with visitors from all backgrounds.
His friendly and approachable demeanor made everyone feel welcome. He was skilled at handling inquiries on various topics.
He had a genuine passion for the trail and the town. And he understood his role as an ambassador in providing visitors with information they need.
A simple nod, wave, or greeting on the trail is a powerful way to welcome fellow visitors. These small gestures have a significant impact on the trail community. We all need to acknowledge and welcome everyone we encounter.
When you make visitors feel like they're part of your community, they're more likely to return. By sharing your passion and love for the trail and town you can contribute to the growth of the trail, amenities, tourism, and economy.
As a local, you're the town's best salesperson. Cyclists and hikers bring economic benefits by shopping, dining, and exploring local businesses. By supporting your town, you contribute to a more vibrant trail community.
And then there was Linda and Buster
On my return to Pittsburgh, I stopped at the Rockwood Visitors Center. Linda was volunteering that morning, accompanied by her dog. How could I not stop to pet the dog? She had the same friendly demeanor and passion that made her an excellent ambassador for Rockwood.
Two-way invitation
Welcoming is a two-way street. Whether you're a local or a visitor, remember that your actions contribute to a more welcoming trail and town. Welcoming and inviting others into your life are free and should be generously shared.
A friendly smile is always welcome, whether at a bike shop, a restaurant, or passing by a fellow cyclist, walker, or runner. A smile and a wave can make a lasting impression.
Whether you're behind a sales counter, sitting next to someone at a restaurant, or enjoying a rest on a trail bench, we all benefit from welcoming those we encounter.
I had a wonderful experience riding the Chief Ladiga Trail in Alabama. Eddie manned the visitor center, along with a friendly cat. He offered friendly conversation, information, water, and a snack.