Northeast Washington was selected by State of Washington Tourism to be the pilot destination for its new Rural Tourism Support Program. The program is underway and community workshops are scheduled to begin in late March. Northeast Washington includes Ferry, Stevens, and Pend Oreille counties, and comprises the Colville National Forest, Upper Columbia River, and the city communities of Colville, Chewelah, Republic, and Newport.
Outdoor recreation and destination quality and experience are a key part of these discussions and planning efforts. One of the components of this strategic planning process is to conduct a Visitor Opportunity Study. Everyone is welcome to complete the survey, which includes questions about recreational opportunities and experiences while visiting Northeast Washington.
Survey date will assist the Tri-County Economic Development District and regional partners to “develop a better understanding of the experience of visitors traveling to Northeast Washington, as well as that of local residents and business owners,” according to the survey introduction. “The objective of the survey is to identify priorities for improving the experience of visiting the region – this includes opportunities for development and enhancement while still maintaining stewardship over the region’s diverse resources.”
Adventure travel and recreation abounds in the scenic landscape of northeast Washington (top three photos). // Photos courtesy Kalispell Tribe // Ferry County Rail Trail (bottom left) // Photo: Jesse Harding, courtesy of the Ferry County Rail Trail. // Kayaking on the Pend Oreille River. // Photo: Carol Corbin
Find stories and learn more about NE Washington adventure travel and recreation opportunities in the OTO archives.