Conceptualization and Realization of a National Trail in a Small Island-Nation: The Commonwealth of Dominica’s Experience

Dominica's 183.5 km Waitukubuli National Trail (WNT), the Eastern Caribbean's first and only national trail, was designed to link rural communities and promote ecotourism. A study found that while strong community support exists for the WNT, reliable funding for maintenance remains a critical future challenge, with 100% of survey respondents highlighting this issue. Topographical challenges and private landowner negotiations were significant during construction. The trail, officially opened in 2013, continues to face recovery efforts post-Hurricane Maria (2017). The research, based on questionnaires, interviews, and literature review, also identified potential issues with marketing, public engagement, and visitor safety while proposing strategies for the trail's sustainability.

Christian, C. S. (2021). Conceptualization and Realization of a National Trail in a Small Island-Nation: The Commonwealth of Dominica’s Experience. Tourism and Hospitality, 2(1), 79–94. https://doi.org/10.3390/tourhosp2010005