Wrangell may be getting some new attention from a younger crowd. Google’s search data shows that a surprisingly high number of people aged 25 to 34 are looking up the small Alaska town.

This news was presented at the Wrangell Convention and Visitor Bureau meeting on Nov. 4. The high search activity caught Economic Development Director Kate Thomas by surprise.

She is excited but also cautious.

“I would challenge that data somewhat,” she said, adding that she needs to study the data more closely to see what the high numbers really mean. “But it is encouraging for us to see.”

Usually, Thomas said, people searching for Wrangell are checking the cruise ship schedule. However, cruise ship customers are not typically in the 25-34 age group. That is why she needs time to sort through all the information.

Wrangell’s main group of potential visitors is usually older. The target market is people aged 35 to 55. They usually have a household income above $75,000. Those travelers like outdoor recreation. They also find travel ideas on social media, and they are likely to share their own travel experiences online.

Thomas said Wrangell offers a great “family experience.” She explained the town is clean and walkable, and offers cultural and historical stops. These include the petroglyph beach, carving shed and Chief Shakes house.

The town’s economic development director thinks there is a specific market for the younger group. She said that younger travelers are more likely to plan trips independently online, and the Wrangell area might appeal to their sense of adventure.

“Wrangell is essentially a mecca for that kind of activity,” she said, pointing to great opportunities for hunting, hiking and kayaking.

Thomas hopes to see more tourist all-terrain vehicle rentals, which would encourage further exploration of the island. She also mentioned that jet ski tours are becoming very popular elsewhere.

“That kind of tour is more adventurous and personal than a large cruise ship,” she noted. “It has more of an up-close and active feel to it.”

Thomas is hopeful that analyzing this new data could lead to more growth in local tourism — which, in turn, would help improve the economy.