Ski Demand

Ski resorts are planning for an avalanche of traffic this season.

In New Hampshire…Cannon Mountain saw a 20% increase in pass sales for the year, going so far as to halt them due to the high demand. Trade association Ski NH expects elevated participation in outdoor winter activities similar to the boom many outdoor summer activities — like cycling and golf — experienced during warm weather.

Across North America…Vail Resorts, which owns 34 resorts across the U.S. and Canada, reported an 18% increase year-over-year in season pass sales through Sept. 20, although most were credits leftover from the pandemic-shortened season in the spring.

The high demand is good news for the struggling slopes: Vail lost more than $200 million in its fiscal year that ended in July and reported full-year earnings were down 29% year-over-year.

Still, skiers won’t be seeing normal ski trips: 

• Slope capacities could reduce by at least 20%.
• Masks and social distancing will be implemented at resorts across the U.S. — including states like Colorado where they’re required indoors and out.
• Many resorts across the country aren’t allowing walk-up tickets, requiring passes be purchased in advance.