Utah Ski Industry Shatters Records: Two Billion Dollars in Spending and Three Hundred Forty-Two Million Dollars in Tax Revenue Fuel Tourism Growth

Published on December 10, 2025

Utah’s ski industry continues to be a major pillar of the state’s tourism economy, showcasing strong growth and resilience in the 2024/25 ski season. A recent report from the Kem C. Gardner Policy Institute at the University of Utah highlights the enormous contribution the ski industry makes to the state’s tourism economy, with skier and snowboarder spending reaching $2.51 billion and generating $342.6 million in state and local tax revenue. These numbers reaffirm the importance of skiing and snowboarding not only as key tourist activities but also as vital contributors to local communities and Utah’s broader economic health.

Ski Industry’s Economic Impact on Utah’s Tourism Sector

The ski industry remains one of the most crucial drivers of Utah’s tourism economy. According to the report, the 2024/25 season witnessed 6.5 million skier days, underlining the state’s continued appeal as a top destination for winter sports. This impressive number of skier days resulted in significant economic benefits, including $2.51 billion in total skier and snowboarder spending and $342.6 million in state and local tax revenue. The ski industry also supported 31,800 direct jobs across the state, further solidifying its role as a cornerstone of Utah’s economy.

As tourism continues to play a central role in the state’s economic vitality, the ski industry’s performance is a key indicator of the broader tourism sector’s health. The continued growth in skier days and overall visitor numbers highlights the sustained interest in Utah as a premier destination for skiing and outdoor recreation.

Boosting Local Communities Through Strong Tourism Activity

The financial impact of the ski industry is also evident in Utah’s accommodation sales, a key metric for gauging tourism activity. In Salt Lake, Summit, and Weber counties—regions that host some of Utah’s most famous ski resorts—accommodation sales during the ski season reached an impressive $668 million. These sales reflect not only the growing number of visitors coming to Utah for skiing but also the broader tourism benefits the ski industry provides. Skiers and snowboarders who visit Utah often extend their stay to explore the state’s other attractions, supporting local hotels, restaurants, and other service providers.

As ski resorts attract more visitors, the local businesses in these regions thrive, contributing to a vibrant tourism economy. This influx of spending helps sustain Utah’s tourism infrastructure, creating lasting economic benefits for local communities and ensuring the sustainability of the tourism industry for years to come.

Skiers’ Spending Habits and Demographics

The report also provides valuable insights into the demographics and spending habits of visitors to Utah’s ski resorts. On average, Utah’s skiers and snowboarders are 48 years old, and many stay in the state for an extended period, averaging 6.4 nights. This demographic is particularly valuable for local tourism businesses, as they tend to spend more during their longer stays compared to short-term visitors.

Geographically, the appeal of Utah’s ski resorts extends beyond the state. Forty-three percent of skiers came from Utah, but a significant portion also traveled from other parts of the U.S. and internationally. Nine percent of visitors came from California, while 32 percent traveled from the rest of the United States. Three percent of skiers and snowboarders hailed from international destinations, further underscoring Utah’s global appeal as a top winter sports destination.

In terms of spending, visitors to Utah’s ski resorts spent an average of $306 per day. This includes $59 on lift passes, $62 on lodging, and $61 on food and dining. The broad distribution of spending across various sectors—such as accommodations, food, and lift tickets—illustrates how skiing benefits not just the resorts but also the local hospitality and service industries, further amplifying the economic impact of Utah’s ski tourism.

Skiing and Snowboarding: Integral to Utah’s Tourism Identity

Utah’s ski industry is more than just an economic engine; it is an essential part of the state’s identity. As Nathan Rafferty, President and CEO of Ski Utah, noted, skiing and snowboarding are deeply embedded in the state’s culture and way of life. The 2024/25 season once again demonstrated the profound impact the ski industry has on local businesses and communities. The strong visitation numbers translate into more jobs, stronger businesses, and lasting benefits for residents across Utah.

Looking ahead, Utah’s ski industry is expected to play an even more prominent role as the state prepares for the 2034 Olympic Winter Games. The Olympics will further showcase Utah’s world-class ski resorts and attract even more visitors to the state, enhancing the already vibrant tourism industry. As a result, the ski industry will continue to be a driving force behind Utah’s tourism economy, providing significant long-term benefits to both the state and its residents.

The Future of Utah’s Ski Industry and Tourism

With the success of the 2024/25 ski season, Utah’s ski industry is well-positioned to maintain its status as a premier global destination for winter sports. The ongoing growth in skier days, combined with strong tourism spending and robust accommodation sales, sets a positive precedent for future years. The state’s ski resorts have proven their resilience, and as tourism continues to rebound, the industry is expected to keep driving the state’s economic growth and tourism success.

Looking forward, the continued success of Utah’s ski industry will rely on further investments in infrastructure and amenities to support the growing number of visitors. These investments, coupled with Utah’s reputation as a world-class destination for winter sports, will ensure that the ski industry remains at the forefront of the state’s tourism economy for years to come.

Conclusion: Utah’s Ski Industry as a Vital Tourism Asset

Utah’s ski industry continues to be a powerhouse in the state’s tourism sector. The impressive $2.51 billion in skier spending, $342.6 million in tax revenue, and the creation of thousands of jobs underscore the significant economic impact of the ski industry. As Utah continues to build on this success, the ski industry will remain a crucial component of the state’s tourism economy, benefiting both local communities and the broader state economy. With the upcoming 2034 Olympic Winter Games on the horizon, the future of Utah’s ski tourism looks bright, and the state is sure to remain a top destination for winter sports enthusiasts from around the world.