After the Allegheny River and Trails at Jakes Rocks secured accolades for being the PA River of the Year and PA Trail of the Year for 2024, interest has sparked in ecotourism for the region.

Local business owners and community members alike have all expressed a source of pride from receiving these honors and look forward to what this might mean for the future of our region.

“We are definitely seeing an increase in ecotourism," stated Andy Georgakis, Store Manager of Warren Cycle Shop. "That has translated to support for local jobs here in the area, which is important."

Local business owners state that this win is not only a testament to the beauty of our region, but also the dedication of everyone in the community who has taken care of the river and the trails.

From the daily maintenance done at the Trails at Jakes Rocks to yearly Allegheny River Clean-up events, these wins are a result of years of hard work and a deep commitment to the environment.

“This is an opportunity to have folks come and visit, canoeing, kayaking, biking, climbing, birding, whatever it is that they might be doing," said Piper VanOrd, Owner of Allegheny Outfitters. "This is an opportunity as a whole, as a community, to show them what it is that we love so much about our area, why we love to call this place home.”

Upcoming celebrations are being scheduled to celebrate the PA River of the Year and PA Trail of the Year, including Trail Fest, which will be happening this year in September.

For more information, on the PA River of the Year visit here, and for more information on the PA Trail of the Year, visit here.