This peer exchange is designed to showcase community revitalization, outdoor recreation, heritage tourism, and entrepreneurial initiatives across the Appalachian region. Participants will engage with local leaders, visit key cultural and natural sites, and explore how communities are leveraging assets for economic and social renewal.

• Day 1 (Western NY & PA Wilds): Visits to Griffis Sculptural Park, the Seneca Iroquois National Museum, Kinzua Bridge State Park, and the Elk County Visitor Center, with discussions on history, culture, and conservation-based tourism.

• Day 2 (PA to WV): Tour of Organic Climbing in Phillipsburg, PA, followed by a visit to the Flight 93 Memorial. The day ends in Morgantown, WV.

• Day 3 (New River Gorge): Meetings with the National Park Service, community leaders, and tours of Summit Bechtel Reserve and the Exhibition Coal Mine. Evening winery tour and overnight stay at Pipestem Resort.

• Day 4 (WV Coalfields): Exploration of downtown Mullens, Welch’s arts center, Cape Coalwood, Berwind Farm, historic Bramwell, and Bluefield’s Commercialization Station. Emphasis on arts, agritourism, entrepreneurship, and ATV trail development.

• Day 5 (Charleston Departure): Participants depart from Charleston, WV, with optional morning events.

Throughout the trip, participants will see firsthand how rural Appalachian communities are balancing heritage, natural resources, and innovation to drive sustainable development.