Survey launched to help create strategy for East Lewis County shoulder season

The Packwood Trail Project (PTP) has launched a survey of East Lewis County residents and visitors to gauge how the organization can increase tourism during the area’s “shoulder season.”

While the area sees a spike in visitation in the summer as recreationists visit rural Lewis County, the PTP is looking for ways to increase visitation during the fall and spring seasons, when tourism takes a notable dip.

Those who complete the questionnaire, which is available at https://survey123.arcgis.com/share/3d80bbc40b1843ed819d1070d15f90af, could win a $100 gift card to Packwood Brewing Company.

“Listening to the community is the most important thing we do,” said Jon-Paul Bowles, CEO of Destination Management Advisors, the firm hired by PTP to develop a shoulder season strategy. “We’ve heard loud and clear that more and more tourism isn’t the answer for Randle and Packwood. So we are exploring ways to help local businesses capture more tourism dollars, especially in the fall and spring.”

According to the PTP, while tourism can be an essential source of economic activity in rural communities, the uptick in visitation can cause congestion on roadways. The PTP is exploring the potential for new trails near town to improve resident and visitor access while decreasing the need for cars.

“The Packwood Trail Project is a small nonprofit with a simple idea to create a trail system that connects to town, is easy to walk and ride, and can be used year-round,” said Elise Woodsmith, an executive officer of the PTP and part owner of the Packwood Brewing Company.

The project to establish a shoulder season strategy is funded through a grant from Lewis County LTAC funds. East Lewis County residents and business owners with questions can contact lewiscoinsights@destinationmanagementadvisors.com.

“We know that people come to Randall and Packwood to enjoy nature but often leave town to explore,” Bowles said. “That means more cars on the road and less money spent at local businesses. We’re looking for ways to flip that script.”