“More Helpful than Hurtful”? Information, Technology, and Uncertainty in Outdoor Recreation

Abstract

As information and communication technologies approach ubiquity, the need to examine their role in leisure contexts increases. Using data generated with Appalachian Trail (AT) long-distance hikers through semi-structured interviews, this research explored outdoor recreationist views on technology and information use. Participants’ views on technology ranged from unquestioningly pro-technology to technology-resistant. Regarding information sources, hikers generally expressed satisfaction while some communicated instances of information overload. In some cases, participants evaluated uncertainty positively, indicating situations where it is “nice not to know” what lies ahead. These findings shed light on smartphones’ role in leisure and underscore the need to evaluate uncertainty as a component of outdoor recreation. Information availability and the value of uncertainty may become increasingly important topics as leisure continues into the digital age.

Keywords:

• long-distance trail
• recreational experience
• smartphone
• uncertainty
• user-generated content

Acknowledgments

The utmost gratitude is owed to the participants of this research. Dr. KangJae “Jerry” Lee and Dr. Erin Seekamp offered guidance on the review of literature, development of the methodology, and general direction of this research. North Carolina State University Department of Parks, Recreation & Tourism Management and Recreation Resources Service provided access to tools and resources, and the input of anonymous reviewers also greatly improved this work.

Declaration of interest

The authors report no conflicts of interest or financial interests or benefits related to this work.