The Susquehanna Greenway Outdoor Expo: An Economic Benefit to the Susquehanna

There is no doubt about it, the Susquehanna River offers a world of beauty and opportunity for outdoor recreation. In recent years, more people than ever have shown an interest in activities on and along our backyard river. Yet, it is not always apparent where to go or how to plan that next outdoor adventure, resulting in missed opportunities for individuals and the businesses who cater to them.

One organization that is working to help fill this gap is the Susquehanna Greenway Partnership (SGP). SGP works to connect people to this treasured corridor—the Susquehanna Greenway—to help provide the opportunity and resources for all to access hiking, biking, and paddling trails along our shared Susquehanna River.

And that’s not all. For the towns and businesses of the Susquehanna Valley, Greenways are known to play a role in supporting economic development.

According to Rails-to-Trails Conservancy, “Greenways and their trails provide countless opportunities for economic renewal and growth [such as] increased property values, tour- ism, and recreation-related spending.”

Small communities, like those in the Susquehanna Valley, are positioned to benefit from this rising interest in outdoor recreation if we look at their unique character and access to outdoor opportunities as economic resources.

It is not just the outfitters who profit. The small businesses that line the streets of our downtown communities have become hubs for people to convene after their adventures at the nearby parks and trails. People are attracted to their charm, stay to enjoy the amenities, and boost the local economies as a result.

One event that saw an opportunity to celebrate this commodity was the Susquehanna Greenway Outdoor Expo, held in June of 2022. And it is coming to the Susquehanna Valley again in 2023!

During the first year’s event, held at Shikellamy State Park Marina where the North and West branches of the Susquehanna River meet, SGP convened industry experts, outdoor professionals, and non-profit partners to share their tools, knowledge, gear, and resources with the recreating public.

The event brought in 50 vendors from across the state to engage with attendees and offered a full slate of workshops, presentations, gear demos, and music performances—all at no cost to the public. The response to this event was overwhelming, as over 1,000 individuals and families engaged with the event and shared in the learning opportunities.

One attendee said, “Terrific event with lots of great people and information!” Another remarked, “It was awesome! I hope you have it again next year.”

Highlights of the event included a live birds of prey show by the Miller’s Wildlife & Conservation Specialists, fly fishing for beginners run by TCO Fly Shop, a paddling clinic held by Susquehanna Outfitters, and ongoing demos and activities held at each exhibitor’s booth—for example, learning to throw discs with DiscGolfPark.