The National Ski Areas Association (NSAA) is reporting an estimated 61 million skier visits took place at American ski resorts this season. It beats the previous record of 60.5 million skiers that visited during the 2010-2011 season.
The NSAA says that the record-setting number means that the ski industry is “healthy” and that “the demand for outdoor recreation remains strong”.
“This record visitation signals that the U.S. ski industry is healthy, and that the demand for outdoor recreation remains strong. There were signs of this during the 2020-21 season as the realities of the Covid-19 pandemic led more people to seek outdoor activities. Strong skier numbers bode well for the long-term health of the sport, especially since participant numbers have been relatively flat over the past decade. The number of operating ski areas also jumped from 462 last season to 473 this season, another positive indicator.”
The NSAA separates American ski resorts into six regions.
Their data shows that the Rocky Mountain Region reported a record high of 25.2 million visits. The Northeast, Midwest, and Pacific Southwest saw increases in visits from last season.
Here’s the full breakdown:
“NSAA divides the country into six regions. The Rocky Mountain region reported a record high number of skier visits, totaling 25.2 million visits. Other regions with increases in season-over-season skier visits were the Northeast, Midwest and Pacific Southwest. Only two regions – the Southeast and Pacific Northwest – reported decreases in skier visits compared to 2020-21.”
You can read the full report from the NSAA here.
It’s great to see that skier visits are up across the country. Here’s to hoping that the small ski areas are able to cash in on the increase in skiers.
I wouldn’t be surprised if some former mega-pass holders look for less crowded options in future seasons.
Featured Image: Matt Lorelli/Unofficial Networks- Taos Ski Valley