Ski Industry in Western US Faces Challenges From Low Snow and Fewer International Visitors

Lower than normal snowfall and reduced international travel are affecting ski resorts across the Western United States this winter, impacting both visitor numbers and local economies.

Mountain regions in states such as Colorado and Utah have recorded snow water equivalent levels well below historical averages, with some areas reporting just over half of typical levels. These conditions have contributed to delayed resort openings and limited available terrain for skiing and snowboarding.

Vail Resorts stated that skier visits through January 4 fell by about 20% compared to the previous season. The company attributed this decline to snowfall totals that were about 50% below the 30-year average at its Western U.S. locations during November and December, resulting in only 11% of terrain being open in December.

Many ski resorts postponed their openings around Thanksgiving due to insufficient snowfall. Warmer than usual temperatures also prevented some resorts from producing artificial snow, further restricting operations during the early part of the season.

What the numbers show

• Colorado and Utah snowpack ranged from 56% to 82% of average this winter
• Vail Resorts saw a 20% drop in skier visits through January 4
• Only 11% of Vail Resorts’ terrain was open in December
• Whitefish Mountain Resort reported a 25% decrease in Canadian visitors
• Canadian spending in Montana ski communities dropped by about 12%

In Montana, Whitefish Mountain Resort and nearby communities have experienced a 25% reduction in Canadian visitors. Local businesses in the area have also reported a 12% decrease in spending by Canadian tourists, with these changes linked to tariffs and policy actions from the Trump administration.

International visitors play a notable role at Colorado ski destinations. In Vail and Eagle County, international travelers account for around 10% of total skier visits, and these guests tend to spend more than domestic visitors during their stays.

The ski industry in Colorado contributes an estimated $4.8 to $5 billion annually to the state’s economy. This sector supports over 46,000 year-round equivalent jobs and generates about $1.9 billion in labor income, highlighting its economic importance for the region.

Industry reaction

Industry sources stated that ski resorts are preparing for a considerable decline in international travel. They attributed this trend to tariffs and rhetoric from the Trump administration, which have discouraged some foreign visitors from traveling to U.S. ski destinations.

Resort operators and local businesses have reported that these combined factors—lower snowfall and reduced international tourism—are influencing both visitation and spending patterns in mountain communities this season.

* This article is based on publicly available information at the time of writing.