Shapiro
AP File Photo
Adams Dunn
Bob Strunk, left, presents Angler of the Year Award to Jake Seymour.
A new report from the Pennsylvania Tourism Office shows the tourism industry in the Commonwealth generated $83.9 billion in economic impact, supported 514,261 jobs, contributed $5 billion in state and local taxes, and welcomed 201.6 million visitors in 2024.
Gov. Josh Shapiro is committed to boosting the tourism industry to create good jobs, strengthen businesses, and attract people to call Pennsylvania home — and his Administration has committed significant resources and support to growing the industry.
Under the Shapiro administration, Pennsylvania’s tourism industry grew by $7 billion from 2023 to 2024 ― from $76 billion to nearly $84 billion — resulting in the creation of 30,000 additional jobs across the Commonwealth.
The 2024 Economic Impact of Travel and Tourism report provides state, regional, and county level estimates that demonstrate the vital importance of the travel industry to Pennsylvania’s economy.
“Here in Pennsylvania, we have it all — top tier sports and events, award-winning restaurants, incredible hikes and state parks, and the most important historic sites in the country that tell the story of our shared history,” Gov. Shapiro said. “More people deserve the chance to come here and experience the magic of Pennsylvania for themselves.”
Key 2024 highlights of the report include:
• 201.6 million visitors to the Commonwealth, an increase of nearly 10 million from 2023
• Visitor spending topped $49.9 billion, an increase of 4.2 percent year-over-year
• $83.9 billion in total economic impact, an increase of nearly $7 billion from 2023
• 514,261 jobs, supporting 1-in-16 jobs in Pennsylvania — including nearly 133,000 jobs in the food and beverage industry alone
• $5 billion in state and local taxes
Visitor activity, which supports jobs, income, and business sales, generated $10.5 billion in government revenues. State and local taxes alone tallied $5 billion in 2024, an increase of $182 million from 2023.
Overnight visitors increased by 2% over the previous year and spending increased by $1.1 billion, with more than 71 million visitors resulting in $30.4 billion in spending. Overnight visitors spent $428 per person, up $9 from 2023; while spending on day trips grew to $19.5 billion.
The international visitor market increased its share to 4.2% of tourism demand in 2024 — up from 3.9% in 2023.
DCNR accepting nominations for 2026 Pennsylvania Trail of the Year
Pennsylvanians now have the chance to put their favorite trail in the spotlight, as the Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (DCNR) opens nominations for the Commonwealth’s 2026 Trail of the Year.
With more than 14,000 miles of trails, the honor celebrates the best of Pennsylvania’s world-class outdoor recreation network and the communities that support it.
“Trails are an important part of what makes Pennsylvania a special place for outdoor recreation, and we are excited to open up nominations for this prestigious honor,” said DCNR Secretary Cindy Adams Dunn. “The Commonwealth has some of the best natural resources in the nation, and uplifting our trails is essential to the future of our outdoor recreation industry. I look forward to the competition and seeing which trail comes out on top.”
To be considered, a nomination form and supporting documentation must be submitted online by Oct. 31. The winning trail will be recognized in a news release; through a commemorative poster for statewide distribution; with a trailhead marker along the trail; and with a grant for educational programs to promote safety and environmental protection.
Each year, the Pennsylvania Trails Advisory Committee designates a Trail of the Year to highlight the value of Pennsylvania’s trail network, build public support, and raise awareness of the economic, environmental, and health benefits trails bring to communities. The 20-member DCNR-appointed committee represents both motorized and non-motorized trail users and guides the Commonwealth’s strategy for developing a statewide land and water trail network.
The 2025 Trail of the Year was the Path of the Flood Trail in Cambria County, a 14-mile corridor that traces the historic route of the 1889 Johnstown Flood.
The winner will be announced in early 2026.
Surge seen in state park visitors this summer and rise in outdoor recreation growth
Pennsylvania’s state parks welcomed nearly 25 million visitors this summer, recording a 30% surge in campground reservations after federal closures shifted demand.
Overall summer reservations were up 10% statewide — and up 60% near affected federal sites.
“When the federal government closed campgrounds, Pennsylvania stepped up,” said Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources Secretary Cindy Adams Dunn. “Thanks to the incredible work of our state park and forest teams, we kept the outdoors open, awesome, and accessible for all. Whether you’re camping for the weekend or looking to explore a trail, Pennsylvania’s public lands are ready and waiting to welcome you.”
With 124 state parks that are free and open to the public year-round, the Shapiro Administration is delivering affordable outdoor experiences for millions of families. As fall begins, residents and visitors are encouraged to plan trips through Pennsylvania: The Great American Getaway — a campaign showcasing the Commonwealth’s public lands, vibrant foliage, and growing outdoor recreation economy.
From 2.2 million acres of forestland to more than 7,100 campsites, Pennsylvania offers accessible and memorable outdoor adventures for everyone.
As DCNR marks its 30th anniversary this year, the Shapiro Administration remains focused on keeping public lands safe, welcoming, and well-maintained.
PA Game Commission: Archery deer season draws close
Pennsylvania’s statewide archery deer season kicks off on Oct. 4, and runs through Nov. 21, then comes back in from Dec. 26, through Jan. 19, 2026.
In 2024, Pennsylvania had just three Sundays when big game could be pursued, and only one of them fell within the statewide archery deer season. This year, thanks to the passage of Act 36 of 2025, more opportunity awaits.
The Game Commission in July revisited the already-established 2025-26 hunting seasons, authorizing hunting on 13 Sundays, from Sept. 14 through Dec. 7, as long as they fall within established seasons.
There are still some things hunters need to be aware of. Within Pennsylvania state parks, for example, Sunday hunting only will be allowed this year on and Nov. 16, Nov. 23 and Nov. 30 — the three Sundays initially approved. There is no Sunday hunting for any migratory game birds. And those hunting on private property on Sundays must carry with them written permission from the landowner.
Back Woods Bass results announced
Bob Strunk reported results from the Back Woods Bass Monday Night Susquehanna River Tournament, Harveys Lake Wednesday Night Lunker Tournament and the Harveys Lake Friday Night Tournament.
Monday Night Susquehanna River Tournament
(No results reported)
Harveys Lake Wednesday Night Lunker Tournament
Week of Sept. 10
1st Place: Jonathan Kelley 4.90 lbs
2nd Place: John Kelley 4.35 lbs
3rd Place: Mike Borton 3.62 lbs
4th Place: Justin Kubilus 3.34 lbs
5th Place: Greg Mikulski lll 3.14 lbs
6th Place: Steve Hovanec 3.14 lbs
7th Place: Kevin Seymour 3.11 lbs
8th Place: Nate Hazeltine 3.00 lbs
9th Place: Jake Seymour 2.95 lbs
10th Place: Andy Judge 2.94 lbs
Week of Sep. 17
1st Place: Corbin Holcomb 3.52 lbs
2nd Place: Kenny Kosloski 3.29 lbs
3rd Place: Ryan Spencer 3.23 lbs
4th Place: Justin Kubilus 3.14 lbs
5th Place: John Reklaitis 3.03 lbs
6th Place: Jake Seymour 3.00 lbs
7th Place: Ryan Borton 2.94 lbs
8th Place: Eric Jarnot 2.90 lbs
9th Place: Andy Judge 2.87 lbs
10th Place: Gary Mikulski 2.86 lbs
Harvey’s Lake Friday Night Tournament
Week of Sept. 12
1st Place: Jake Seymour 12.40 lbs
2nd Place: Joe Zombek/Mike Bahnweg 10.46 lbs
3rd Place: Nate & Howard Hazeltine 10.18 lbs
4th Place: Jonathan Kelley & Jackie 8.80 lbs
5th Place: Gary & Aaron Hayman 7.27 lbs
Week of Sept.
Week of Sept. 19
1st Place: Duane Deno 13.38 lbs
2nd Place: Johnny Niezgoda 11.35 lbs
3rd Place: Nate & Howard Hazeltine 11.04 lbs
4th Place: Jake Seymour 11.04 lbs
5th Place: Justin Kubilus/Brian Bylotas 10.85 lbs
6th Place: Matt Fredmonski/Bruce Rhin 10.32 lbs
7th Place: Pete Sulla 9.49 lbs
8th Place: Eric Jarnot/Ron Burd 9.29 lbs
9th Place: Dave Brill/Chris Kalna 8.78 lbs
10th Place: Gary & Aaron Hayman 7.80 lbs
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