WHAT SAY YOU? Whether or not you use the Chippewa Valley's trail system, that information is valuable for this new online survey. Local economic and tourism orgs are seeking feedback on the trail system, which has the potential to be a serious economic driver, based on previous data.

The City of Eau Claire’s trail system provides serious economic value to the community (on top of its natural values) – $4.1 million worth of value, according to a report released in 2025. Now, the wider Chippewa Valley looks to gain data around its state trail system, too.

The Eau Claire Economic Development Corp. is partnering with Visit Eau Claire, Explore Menomonie and Go Chippewa County – the Chippewa Valley communities’ respective tourism divisions – to learn how people are, or are not, using the area’s state trails.

How? First, through an online survey.

That survey includes just under 30 prompts, mostly made up of check-the-box questions with some fill-in options. It takes around five minutes to complete and does not require your name or contact information.

This survey is being conducted as part of the Wisconsin Office of Outdoor Recreation’s Do-It-Yourself Economic Impact Program – the same program the City of Eau Claire used for its valuation report.

“This survey will help us gather input on how people use the trails, what their experiences are like, and what improvements would make the greatest impact,” the survey’s introduction reads. “Feedback will help inform future planning, investment decisions, and strategies to better connect the trails with local businesses and communities.

“Whether you use the trails frequently, occasionally, or not at all, your perspective is valuable.”

Take the survey online, via Google Forms, at this link.