Two Studies Highlight Trails’ Economy, Environment & Health Benefits

Trails not only benefit those looking for a breath of fresh air, but also contribute benefits to the economy, environment and health. These benefits were revealed by two studies conducted by the Washington State Recreation and Conservation Office in collaboration with Washington Trails Association, Washington Bikes, and the University of Washington.

"The studies highlight how much time we spend outside and what people are doing on trails, how it helps prevent a wide variety of health issues, both physical health and mental health," said Kaleen Cottingham, director of the state Recreation and Conservation Office.

According to the companion studies, trails contribute $8.2 billion per year to the state's economy and they result in $390 million per year in health savings. Additionally, trails support 81,000 jobs on an annual basis.

"Outdoor exercise helps with mood, restored attention, decreased anger, decreased depression and stress. These are things we've known intuitively, but we've hired experts to look into it - both economic experts as well as people at the University of Washington who specialize in outdoor recreation," said Cottingham.

The twin reports were commissioned by the legislature.