Timberline Lodge

On Tuesday January 19th, 2010, The National Geographic Society will unveil its latest Geotourism MapGuide of the Central Cascades, with a celebratory reception at Timberline Lodge. Timberline is one of the “geotourism assets” identified on the new map, an authentic place that represents the essential character of the Central Cascades region.

Created from 1,200 nominations by local residents and business owners, the new MapGuide features more than 200 geotourism sites. Points of interest include cultural, recreational, agricultural, natural, and geological attractions and activities that promote sustainable travel throughout the Central Cascades, as well as full-color photography from Northwest photographers and the famed National Geographic cartography. The MapGuide has a corresponding website at www.thecentralcascades.com which will also be unveiled at the event.

Geotourism sustains or enhances the geographical character of a place – its environment, culture, aesthetics, heritage, and the well-being of its residents. According to a 2002 study by the National Geographic Society, more than 55 million adults in the U.S. could be described as “geotourists,” who travel to enjoy the distinctive character of places who are willing to help preserve, sustain, and enhance those qualities for future visitors. These travelers control more than half the household income of all U.S. travelers. The new MapGuide will contribute to the economic health of communities by promoting sustainable tourism while also acknowledging the sensitive balance between growth and conservation.

The National Geographic Society Center for Sustainable Destinations provided direction for this exciting project. Travel Oregon, and Washington State Tourism then took the local lead and formed the Central Cascades Geotourism Stewardship Council who with the regional coordination and help from Sustainable Travel International, Sustainable Northwest, and Rural Development Initiatives, began identifying geotourism assets from Mt. Ranier National Park in the north, all the way south to Crater Lake.

The event is open to the public. Representatives from communities, various businesses, local, state, and federal government, and the tourism industry will be in attendance. The guest speaker for the event at Timberline Lodge will be Vice President for The National Geographic Society, John Francis, PhD.