Visitation at capacity-constrained tourism destinations: Exploring revenue management at a national park

Zvi Schwartz, William Stewart, Erik A. Backlund

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

Abstract

This study explores issues related to the introduction of revenue management principles in the mechanism of allocating permits to visitors. Specifically, the study looks at ways in which backcountry hikers in Grand Canyon National Park, a World Heritage Site listed among America's most visited tourism attractions, value a particular allocation mechanism for a permit application. From a stratified random sampling scheme with a 76% response rate, over 1400 overnight backcountry hikers reported the potential for considerable increased revenues. At the same time the findings indicate that certain demographics and user groups will not participate in the modifications, and thus, may be less likely to get a permit when they apply for one. Any policy implementation from such an analysis needs to consider the implications of privileging those who are both willing and able to pay more for access, and effectively excluding others from the same opportunity.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)500-508
Number of pages9
JournalTourism Management
Volume33
Issue number3
DOIs
StatePublished - Jun 2012

Keywords

  • Carrying capacity
  • Grand Canyon National Park
  • Revenue management
  • Visitation permits

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Development
  • Transportation
  • Tourism, Leisure and Hospitality Management
  • Strategy and Management

Fingerprint

Dive into the research topics of 'Visitation at capacity-constrained tourism destinations: Exploring revenue management at a national park'. Together they form a unique fingerprint.

Cite this