A GIS methodology for modelling hiking experiences in the Grampians National Park, Australia

Abstract

This paper has applied two commonly used multivariate techniques, principal component and discriminant function analyses to create ‘constructs’ that model and visualise the characteristics of hiking experiences in natural settings. In situ measurements of feelings and experiences were ascertained via a survey questionnaire administered to subjects hiking along the Pinnacle walking track in the Grampians National Park (GNP) in western Victoria, Australia. Four underlying experiences were detected whilst hiking and their relationships with the biophysical characteristics were established. Results show that the biophysical characteristics of landscapes have a strong bearing on hiking experiences in the Grampians. Identified dimensions of hiking experiences were validated using a different site within the GNP through the data logged in GPS receivers along with a brief survey. Using the outcomes of the model, in the form of maps, a novel approach of managing visitors and their likely experiences in national parks can be developed. With careful promotion, a range of nature-based recreational products could be developed or tailored to suit desires and fitness requirements of different types of hikers. Anticipated probability of experiences at locations with their own biophysical characteristics may reduce the chance of encountering ‘undesirable’ experiences that in turn may enhance the satisfaction of tourists with their visits.

摘要:本文应用两种广为使用的多变量技术,即主成分和判别函数分析,模拟并可视化展示自然背景下徒步体验的特征。现场测量徒步者的感受与体验是通过向澳大利亚西维多利亚的格兰屏国家公园顶峰徒步路线的徒步者进行问卷调查获得的。识别了四种内在的徒步体验,构建了它们与自然环境之间的关系。结果显示,景观的自然环境特征对格兰屏徒步体验有显著的影响。在格兰屏公园不同地点检验了识别出的徒步体验维度的有效性,这一步骤是通过配合调查的全球定位系统接收器上的数据完成的。利用本模型的结果,以地图的形式开发了一种新颖的管理造访者及其体验的方法。通过精心的宣传,可以开发出一系列自然游憩产品,定制化地满足不同类型徒步者的愿望和健康需求。在不同自然环境场所预期产生不同体验,可能会减少遭遇“不喜欢”的体验的可能性,进而可能会提升旅游者对其造访的满意度

Keywords:

• hiking
• experience
• natural landscapes
• geographic information system
• global positioning system
• national park

关键词:

• 徒步,体验,自然景观,地理信息系统,全球定位系统,国家公园

Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the author.

Additional information

Notes on contributors

Prem Chhetri

Prem Chhetri is a professor of geo-logistics at RMIT University in Australia. Prem is known internationally for the research in spatially-integrated analytics and urban logistics. He has received a number of Australian Research Council and federal and state government grants. His recent research focused on port logistics, urban modelling, tourism potential mapping, emergency response, skills and training, and the application of GIS and GPS in transport, infrastructure and tourism planning.