Niagara as a Cycling Destination

Ontario Cycling Tourism Summit Niagara A Cycling Destination Presented 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 analysis Strengths (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 ď‚— 125 kilometers

ď‚— 4000 cyclists

Ontario Cycling Tourism Summit Thank you for your time!

Q&A