Tourism & Its Impacts on Rural Communities: Deer Lodge 2018

This study was collaborative effort between the Institute for Tourism and Recreation Research and the community of Deer Lodge, Montana to provide insight into the impacts tourism has on rural communities in Montana. Paper surveys on site were completed by 77 visitors. Results show that 13% of respondents were residents of Montana (outside of Powell County) and 84% were from out-of-state or country. Visitors spent an average of 8.27 nights away from home and 3.79 of those nights were in the town of Deer Lodge. Most spending in Deer Lodge was on hotel/motel/B&B/cabin rental ($3,864). Respondents to the survey reported a total spending of $20,714 in the Deer Lodge area. Most respondents in Deer Lodge were there for vacation, recreation, or pleasure and agreed that they visited Deer Lodge because it is relaxing, on their route, and a scenic drive. Results provide the Deer Lodge community with useful data for future planning, marketing/promotion, and understanding the visitor spending associated with visitation