Understanding visitor satisfaction in nature-based trail events

This study investigates the drivers of visitor satisfaction in nature-based tourism by examining participants of the Ultra Trail Dinarides race in Dinara Nature Park, Croatia. Drawing on a comprehensive model that integrates cognitive and emotional attributes, we use regression analysis to assess the influence of factors such as safety, emotional value, service quality, information, and memories. Results reveal that both emotional and cognitive dimensions significantly shape visitor satisfaction, with safety and emotional value emerging as the strongest predictors. These findings deepen theoretical understanding of satisfaction by highlighting the joint impact of emotional and functional attributes. Practically, they guide managers in designing emotionally engaging, safety-driven experiences that enhance satisfaction and promote destination competitiveness and long-term sustainability.