U.S. Ski Resorts Achieve Second-Highest Visitation in 2024-25 Season

U.S. Ski Resorts See Strong Growth in 2024-25 Season

The 2024-25 ski season in the United States has proven to be a successful one for ski resorts across the country. According to preliminary data from the National Ski Areas Association (NSAA), U.S. ski resorts recorded 61.5 million skier visits, marking the second-highest visitation on record. This represents a 1.7% increase from the previous season, demonstrating the continued strength and appeal of skiing and snowboarding in America.

While this figure falls short of the record-setting 2022-23 season by 3.9 million visits, it's important to note that the post-COVID surge was considered unusual across the travel and recreation industries. The current season's numbers indicate a return to more stable growth patterns within the ski industry.

Several factors contributed to the strong performance of U.S. ski resorts in the 2024-25 season. Small and medium-sized ski areas saw increased visits, while the Pacific Northwest experienced a record-setting year. The Midwest region bounced back from a dip in the previous season, and there was continued growth in season passes and frequency-based products.

The number of operating ski resorts also increased from 484 to 492, further supporting the industry's growth. The Rocky Mountain region remained dominant, accounting for 42.9% of all national visits and ranking third out of 47 seasons on record.

Despite a slight decrease in average snowfall compared to the previous year, ski resorts managed to attract more visitors. This suggests that factors beyond snow conditions, such as improved facilities and diverse offerings, play a significant role in attracting skiers and riders.

The ski industry's commitment to reinvestment and improvement is evident in the capital expenditures reported for the 2024-25 season. U.S. ski resorts invested $624.4 million in various projects, with a significant portion directed towards lift infrastructure. A total of 97 new and upgraded lifts were installed nationwide, enhancing the overall skiing experience for visitors.

Looking ahead, the industry shows no signs of slowing down. Ski resorts have already planned $560.7 million in capital spending for the 2025-26 season, including 47 new lifts and 70 lift upgrades. This continued investment demonstrates the industry's confidence in future growth and its commitment to providing top-notch facilities for skiers and riders.

The success of the 2024-25 season, coupled with ongoing investments and improvements, suggests that U.S. ski resorts are well-positioned for continued growth and success in the coming years. As more people discover the joys of skiing and snowboarding, these resorts will likely continue to see strong visitation numbers and remain vital contributors to their local economies.