Ecotourism

The Niagara Escarpment Commission (NEC) encourages sustainable ecotourism in the Bio­sphere Reserve and our mandate supports education and public awareness of the interna­tionally-recognized landscape we work to protect.  

Ecotourism is the fastest growing segment of the tourism industry (4-10% per annum). Of Ontario’s *43.3 million overnight visitors in 2003, 16.3 million or 38% participated in outdoor activities and 82% of overseas visitors visited a provincial or national park. Also, 68% of U.S. visitors participated in a sports or outdoor activity. (*Ontario’s Overnight Visitors with an Out­doors Interest, 2003 – Ontario Ministry of Tourism.)

Sustainable tourism is defined as tourism that sustains or enhances the character of a place—its environment, culture, aesthetics, heritage, and the well-being of its residents. Sustainable tourism ensures that destinations remain unspoiled for future generations—while allowing for enhancement that protects the character of the locale. Sustainable tourism also adopts a principle from its cousin, ecotourism – that tourism revenue can promote conservation. It extends that principle beyond nature travel to encompass local culture and history as well, including the rural countryside, its people and products.

A current National Geographic study in the U.S. observes that there are at least 55.1 million Americans who can be classified as “sustainable tourists.”  

Six million Ontarians live within a 90-minute drive and 100 million Americans live within less than a day’s drive from the Niagara Escarpment. Every year, more than 400,000 visits are made to the Escarpment by day hikers, long- distance hikers, cross-country skiers, canoeists, kayakers, wildlife enthusiasts, photographers and those who simply want to admire the glori­ous scenery of the Escarpment.

Recreational pursuits along the Niagara Escarpment annually generate more than $100 mil­lion of revenue for local communities.

The Niagara Escarpment Commission encourages exploration and enjoyment of the beautiful scenery, cultural heritage and recreational opportunities the Escarpment offers.  From farmers’ markets to hiking to winery and culinary tours, there is something for everyone to enjoy.  

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