Just days before ski season begins, Whitefish Mountain Resort’s Spruce parking lot is bustling with cars. Residents from Flathead Valley are drawn to the fresh foot of powder and the resort’s liberal uphill access policy. The allure has skiers and snowboarders making their way to the summit for early season runs, highlighting the growth of Montana’s snow sports industry, which expanded by 15% in 2023, adding over $83 million to the state’s economy.
A recent U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis report underscores Montana’s outdoor recreation as a critical economic pillar. In 2023, the sector contributed 4.6% to Montana’s GDP, ranking third in the nation alongside Alaska. Hawaii and Vermont lead with 6.3% and 4.8%, respectively. This economic activity encompasses supporting roles like construction and government investment and activities such as skiing, biking, and hunting.
The value added to Montana’s economy from winter recreation has surged by 161% since 2012. “It’s impressive, but not surprising, to see that snow sports contribute increasing value to our state’s economy,” said Whitefish Mountain Resort President Nick Polumbus. As tourists flock to the slopes, they also contribute to local businesses in town, boosting the economy further.
While snow sports are a fraction of Montana’s $3.4 billion outdoor recreation industry, which grew by 17% from 2022, conventional activities brought in $1.2 billion. Supporting activities, which include Montana’s tourism industry, added another $1.7 billion. Montana ranks third nationally for employment related to the outdoor sector, with 5.8% of jobs tied to this industry.
In 2023, the national outdoor recreation industry, valued at $639.5 billion, represented 2.3% of the U.S. economy with a 3.6% growth rate, outpacing overall GDP growth. Employment in the sector also saw a notable rise, with outdoor recreation jobs comprising 3.1% of total U.S. employment. The Outdoor Industry Association reported a record 175.8 million Americans participated in outdoor activities in 2023, marking the ninth consecutive year of growth.
The outdoor recreation industry is a diverse economic force, contributing more to consumer spending than pharmaceuticals or motor vehicles. In Montana, this sector outshines industries like air transportation and performing arts in terms of GDP contribution. “There’s been a shift from the hardcore physical extraction industries to this more experiential extraction scenario,” said Rachel Schmidt, former director of Montana’s Office of Outdoor Recreation.
Recreational Activity Highlights in 2023:
Boating and Fishing reached $36.8 billion nationally, becoming the top conventional activity and second largest in Montana with $149 million.
RVing was Montana’s top activity, contributing $221.8 million, despite a 13% decline from 2022.
Hunting/Shooting/Trapping in Montana saw a 20% increase, reaching $108.7 million.
Bicycling in Montana hit a record $11.6 million.
Festivals/Sporting Events/Concerts rose by 63% from 2022.
Guided Tours and Outfitted Travel doubled since 2019, contributing $145.6 million.
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