New Hampshire — A cold and snowy heart of winter led to an increase in visitation for New Hampshire’s ski industry.
At Ski NH’s annual meeting, which was held earlier this month at Cranmore Mountain Resort, the group announced that the New Hampshire ski industry saw an estimated total of 2,424,587 visits, which was a 3% increase compared to the 2023-24 season and a 6% rise compared to the 10-year average. While it was warm to start and end the ski season, these visitation numbers were helped by a cold January and February, leading to strong visitation during peak periods.
“Though it was relatively warm and dry at first, the weather turned around and became more like a true winter, complete with cold temps and snow,” said Jessyca Keeler, the President of SkiNH. “The shift back to a more seasonal climate helped increase our skier visit numbers, starting just before the holidays and continuing into the first couple weeks of March.”
Alpine ski areas had an estimated visitation total of 2,221,206—up 3% year-over-year and 7% above the decade-long trend. Tubing areas also had a solid season, with a total of 103,883 visits. This was a 3% year-over-year increase, but it came in at 4% below the 10-year average.
The only portion of the industry that saw a below-average winter was the cross-country ski area. New Hampshire’s Cross-country ski center saw an increase in visitors compared to 2023-24, with an estimated 99,498 visits. While this tally was 14% higher than last year, it was still 12% below the 10-year average.
“These numbers highlight the continued enthusiasm for winter recreation in New Hampshire and the industry’s ability to adapt to changing weather conditions, making the 2024-25 season a positive one overall,” said Keeler.
Major improvements are on tap for the 2025-26 season across New Hampshire. New lifts are going to be installed at Bretton Woods, Pats Peak, and Waterville Valley. Renovations of lifts at Tenney Mountain, Whaleback, and Wildcat will also help restore reliable operations. Snowmaking projects are planned across the state. The most notable project is at Loon, where they plan to overhaul their North Peak network.
Many New Hampshire ski resorts plan to operate this summer with activities like zip-line tours, mountain biking, and hiking. To learn more, visit SkiNH.com for hours and information.
Image Credits: Ski New Hampshire
