1. How do you suggest we present the map to our visitors?

• The cover itself is self-explanatory, so place them in a visible location like a brochure rack.
• Lay a pad of flat maps on a desk or countertop (if you need pads, contact info@partnersofcherokee.org)
• Describe the new map on your social media so visitors will stop to pick one up.
• Mail it with your information packets — and clearly mark your town on it.
• Put the URL recreationlinks.org in an appropriate place on our website.
• Post the downloadable map PDF on your website (below).

URL FOR MAP SIDE

https://recreationlinks.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/Outdoor_RecMap-MapSide__01jan2021.pdf

URL FOR TEXT SIDE

https://recreationlinks.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/Outdoor_RecMap_Textside_apr2021.pdf

 

 

2. Who should I specifically recommend the map to?

• Ask visitors if they plan to camp, hike, paddle, etc. If they do, offer them the map.
• If they mention they are heading to the mountains or remote areas, offer a map in case they lose their mobile signal.
• If visitors mention waterfalls or black bears, point out the "Outdoor Safety" text on the map.
• Use the map to show them scenic or historical routes in your area.

 

 

3. If people ask what is on the map, what should we say?

• Point out specific outdoor amenities in your area (camping, hiking, restrooms, biking, RV, etc.).
• Suggest combining interesting excursions near you so visitors will stay longer in your area.
• Point out the closest National and state parks, as well as forests and tourism destinations.
• Mention that it is an good general purpose map of major interstates, highways, and state roads in east Tennessee and western North Carolina.

 

4. We already have a local map, so what is this map for?

• Offer it to guests to supplement your existing literature.
• Use it as a conversation starter: "Which direction are you coming from and where are you headed?"
• Use the map to show how your community can fit into their travel plans.
• Point out local favorite routes for motorcyclists or other recreational motorists.

 

 

ABOUT THIS MAP PROJECT

Outdoor Recreation Maps have been provided to visitor-oriented organizations like yours throughout east Tennessee and western North Carolina. This map helps visitors find national parks, U.S. forests, state parks, and scenic byways in your area. These maps are provided to organizations like yours without any cost or obligation.

WHY do visitors love this map? No other publication combines so much information about driving, hiking, camping, and exploring this specific area. This region offers some of the most popular outdoor recreation lands in the nation. In many cases, these family-friendly sites can be used at little or no cost. When health is a concern, there are few places where social distancing is as safe and enjoyable as in the great outdoors.

WHO is the map for? It is designed specifically for individuals, families, and groups who are looking for leisurely or robust outdoor recreation. It is useful to anyone who is visiting, living in, or simply passing through this scenic 150 mile by 200 mile area.

WHAT is on the map? The map identifies the many parks, forests, lakes, and scenic roads, mountains, and valleys that make Tennessee and North Carolina the travel destinations for millions of visitors each year. The map’s broad overview works together with local maps, smart devices, and online resources to give travelers a complete picture of the area.

HOW can Welcome Center staff use this map? You can encourage visitors to use your local community as a "home base" for planning multiple trips to surrounding areas. Because it is general in nature, this publication can be combined with information about local attractions. Since it is a paper map, it is convenient to carry and it works well in locations where the reception for smart devices is questionable.

WHERE is the map available? The map is available for a limited time in interstate welcome centers, national forests, national and state parks, and local visitor bureaus within east Tennessee and western North Carolina. Go to www.recreationlinks.org to view the map online. For now, individual copies can be ordered here. Special information for Welcome Center staff can always be found only by entering this URL in your browser recreationlinks.org/FAQ

THIS MAP WAS SHIPPED by Partners of Cherokee National Forest, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit at P.O. Box 6674, Oak Ridge, TN 37831. Project Manager: John Innes at jinnes@partnersofcherokee.org

Other nonprofit partners include Great Smoky Mountains Association, Blue Ridge Parkway Foundation, FIND Outdoors, and Blue Ridge National Heritage Area Partnership.