Outdoor Recreation Economy Snapshot

Developed through the Vermont CORE Toolkit, this report examines the role of outdoor recreation in Poultney’s economy and community, documenting the people, places, businesses, and partnerships that support the sector. It highlights major recreational assets including Lake St. Catherine State Park, Slate Valley Trails, the Delaware & Hudson Rail Trail, VAST snowmobile trails, and the Birdseye Wildlife Management Area, as well as the connections between recreation and Poultney’s downtown businesses.

The report also provides an initial estimate of the economic impact generated by Slate Valley Trails. Based on approximately 13,000 trail visits in 2024, it estimates annual direct visitor spending ranging from $470,000 to $1.03 million and total economic impact ranging from $660,000 to $1.46 million. The report establishes a baseline for future planning and recommends additional business interviews, economic impact analysis, and visitor surveys to help Poultney better understand and guide its outdoor recreation economy.