Appalachia is home to the nation’s most-visited national park, The Great Smoky Mountains, and the newest national park, New River Gorge. The region is also home to national forests and national historical parks, more than 225 state parks, world-class trail systems, and more.
Together, these natural assets create a gateway to economic opportunity and increased quality of life for communities. ARC investments and partners aim to sustainably leverage these assets to build tourism opportunities and strengthen local economies.
National Parks in the Region
New River Gorge: America’s Newest National Park
Great Smoky Mountains: Adventure Creates Opportunity in Tennessee
National Historical Parks
Alabama
Tuskegee Airmen, Tuskegee Institute
Kentucky, Tennessee, and Virginia
Maryland and West Virginia
Harpers Ferry, Chesapeake and Ohio Canal
North Carolina
Ohio
Pennsylvania
Allegheny Portage Railroad, Steamtown
Tennessee
ARC’s Outdoor and Tourism Investments
Rural Action: Moving Forest Communities Forward
In Ohio, Rural Action is using ARC support and a partnership with Wayne National Forest to help coal-impacted communities boost tourism through trails.
Appalachia Envisioned Roadshow
This five-part virtual event series showcases how all 13 Appalachian states are bringing ARC’s investment priorities to life. At Stop #2: Culture and Tourism, hear how communities are using outdoor recreation, creative placemaking, and more strategies to create economic growth.
