Niagara as a Cycling Destination

Ontario Cycling Tourism Summit

Niagara

A Cycling DestinationPresented by :

SUSAN MORIN

March 1, 2013

Niagara region

Niagara is known for the falls, wineries and its thriving tourism industry.

Cycling Tourism “A game everyone can play”

The Greater Niagara Circle Route offers a 140 km full circle view of Niagara along Niagara’s many waterfront trails.

The geographical region and surrounding landscapes are relatively flat, however Niagara also offers opportunity for training as well as different levels of exploring.

More and more roads include bike lanes .

What the cycling visitor wants Road Cycling vs Path cycling vs Mountain Biking

Group riding vs and 2 – 5 people

Events are not for everyone

Variety is inviting (levels of difficulty, length of circuit, variety

of circuits)

Many cyclist enjoy a training option

Extra services (along the route or after)

i.e. Luggage services, transportation, meals near or in their

accommodation, bicycle services, tour guides,

SWOT analysis

Strengths:

Overall great tourism products and extended seasons for cycling weather

Niagara region is friendly, clean and offers tidy environment for cycling

Region advisory cycling committee and other cycling clubs in most municipalities including near by urban centers like Hamilton

Increase in cycling culture

Many areas of natural beauty

All municipalities are accessible by bike

Many calm areas for cycling

SWOT analysisStrengths (Cont’d) :

Great cycling routes and increased cycling lanes throughout Niagara

Improved bike friendly public transportation

Accommodations available throughout the region

Cycle and Stay services delivered by B&B’s

Weaknesses Limited transportation for cyclists into Niagara by road and rail

Limited research and information on tourism and cycle tourism in the region

Signage

Weak cohesive marketing strategies

Lack of facilities in some areas----water, washrooms, shops, parking lots, and bike repair, etc.

Winter Weather

Opportunities Economic challenges lead people to choose cycling (no

transportation costs, fuel or parking)

Local government policy support

Increased awareness of personal health using cycling in personal routine

Improvements to the environment

Creating cycling events that cater to the developing cycling market

New promotional methods getting more people involved

Working with other organizations

Threats Competition from other destinations

Few outside travelers know about Niagara’s cycling routes

Limited resources to put towards promoting cycling

Lack of new circuits and product to encourage return

visitors

Marketing message

Bicycle friendly streets and paths

Access to scenic roads, natural areas, waterfront, cultural and historic attractions

Good restaurants

Accommodation with a hearty breakfast either provided or nearby

Bicycle repair shops and other interesting stores and services (luggage service)

Adequate and secure bicycle parking and lock up

Promotion of cycling events and other events: Theatre, music and arts festivals

Route maps and effective advertising and signage

Marketing – cycling

Enhancing Niagara as a Cycling Tourism Destination

Maintenance of current routes and trails, improve roads, paved shoulders and improving pavement conditions.

Improve signage and provide additional services between routes which would be needful to tourist. (Ex: Bike rental services, locking clips)

Create more trails and build new loops to maintain interest of tourist and include all municipalities link routes to important attractions like lakes, wineries and canals to creates interest among tourist and attract return visits

Educate tourism industry partners on the needs of cycling tourists

Partners

Cycle clubs

Safety and training educators

Regional advocacy groups

Policy makers

Traditional Tourism stakeholders (accommodation, restaurants, attractions)

Other agencies supporting cycling tourism such as the Niagara Parks Commission

Attracting Events - GrandFondo Inaugural event September 14th 2013

125 kilometers

4000 cyclists

Ontario Cycling Tourism Summit

Thank you for your time!

Q&A