Abstract
Many communities work on trail projects as opportunities for sustainable development. Kentucky Trail Towns are accomplishing certification through a systematic state-wide program that guides communities, established in geographically advantageous locations, through a resource-based approach to community and economic development. Kentucky Trail Town communities proactively assess and explore physical assets, economic feasibility, and marketing strategies to capitalize on trails associated with adventure tourism. Since 2013, 17 Kentucky Trail Town certifications have been celebrated, particularly in and around publicly protected and managed areas, such as national and state parks and trail systems among other types of recreational destinations pertaining to adventure tourism. 
 
 This study systematically evaluated 16 Kentucky Trail Towns with a focus on wayfinding systems and communication of trail-related amenities and services emphasized in the program guidelines. This study found the effectiveness of trail towns in Kentucky to be in its infancy from a short-term perspective. As a long-term strategy, Kentucky Trail Towns should continue their efforts to sustain and strengthen their relationships between core areas of town and major destination trails along with implementing visible indicators throughout the community. Further planning and design considerations can complement existing trails to enhance visitor experiences while also supporting the host community to preserve their landscape characteristics and place identity.
Highlights
This study systematically evaluated 16 Kentucky Trail Towns with a focus on wayfinding systems and communication of trail-related amenities and services emphasized in the program guidelines
The research team systematically assessed certified Kentucky Trail Towns out of the that have been certified as of summer 2017
Some of the assessed Kentucky Trail Towns have been visited a second time to obtain additional data or to confirm features that were not found during the first visit
Summary
Geotourism and adventure tourism are types of tourism that sustain or enhance the distinctive geographical character of places with the goal to protect and manage tourism destinations and unique places as well as enlighten stewardship While both adhere to respecting the environment, heritage, aesthetics, culture, and well-being of host communities, adventure tourism is further associated with experiencing risk while gaining insight of the destination environment. Some strengths of adventure tourism are that it promotes resilience, attracts high-value customers, and supports local economies while encouraging sustainable practices (UNWTO, 2014). Communities located near such recreational resources and destinations can tap into adventure tourism as a source of economic means. Some aspects of ecotourism and geotourism may be considered adventure tourism in that they incorporate rigorous activities in a range of natural environments such as mountains, rivers, and caves that cater to extended outdoor recreational experiences between individuals and tourism destinations (Dowling, 2013; Weber, 2001; Fritsch, & Johannsen, 2004)
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