- The U.S. ski industry recorded an estimated 52.6 million snowsports visits in 2025-26, a 9.1% decrease from the 10-year average and a decline of approximately 9 million visits from the prior season.
- National average snowfall totaled 112 inches, 33% below the 10-year average of 169 inches and the lowest in more than a decade, with every Western region falling well below average.
- Season passes remained the dominant access product at 49% of visits, while U.S. ski areas invested $569.3 million in capital expenditures despite the challenging conditions.
Preliminary data from the National Ski Areas Association (NSAA) shows the 2025-26 ski season generated an estimated 52.6 million snowsports visits at U.S. ski areas. That figure ranks 32nd out of 48 seasons on record and falls approximately 9 million visits below the prior season.
“Few seasons demonstrate as clearly as this one how dependent our industry remains on regional weather patterns,” NSAA President and CEO Michael Reitzell said in a statement. “Challenging conditions across much of the West, including a slow start, rain events, and record March warmth, significantly impacted visitation throughout the season.”
Regional Breakdown: West Down, East Up
NSAA tracks six regions. The Rocky Mountain region led all areas with 20.1 million visits, followed by the Northeast at 12.9 million, the Midwest at 5.8 million, the Pacific Southwest at 5.7 million, the Southeast at 4.8 million, and the Pacific Northwest at 3.2 million.
The Northeast and Southeast each delivered their second-best seasons of the past decade. The Northeast benefited from an early start and consistent snowfall. Southeastern ski areas capitalized on extensive snowmaking coverage, while Midwest operators leveraged colder temperatures and operational efficiency.
“Strong seasons across the Northeast and Southeast played a critical role in shaping the national picture,” Reitzell said in a statement. “When conditions are favorable, we continue to see strong demand for skiing and snowboarding, which speaks to the enduring appeal of the sport.”
Snowfall and Operations
National average snowfall of 112 inches fell well short of the 10-year average of 169 inches, marking the lowest total in more than a decade. Every Western region came in well below average. Despite snowfall totals running 33% below average, operating days declined only modestly nationally, reflecting continued investment in snowmaking and infrastructure.
Capital Investment Holds Steady
U.S. ski areas invested $569.3 million in capital expenditures during the 2025-26 season, including 45 new lifts and 52 upgraded lifts. On average, reporting ski areas reinvested approximately $22.24 per skier visit back into operations.
Season Pass Market Matures
Season passes accounted for 49% of visits nationally. Daily and multi-day tickets made up 31%. After several years of rapid growth, season pass usage has begun to stabilize over the past two seasons, signaling a maturing market. NSAA said the more consistent mix of access products provides greater revenue predictability through variable weather conditions.
Industry Outlook
NSAA noted that ski areas continue to adapt through investments in infrastructure, snowmaking, and guest experience, and that reduced visitation seasons carry meaningful consequences for mountain and rural economies, including jobs and spending at local lodging, restaurants, retail, and transportation businesses.
Historical data shows that lower-snow seasons are often followed by stronger years, the association said.
“We’ve seen time and again that a lower-snow season is often followed by a strong rebound,” Reitzell said in a statement. “With continued investment, a stable base of participants, and the passion that drives skiers and snowboarders, we’re already looking ahead to next season.”
NSAA noted the data is preliminary and will be updated once final 2025-26 numbers are compiled. A snowsports visit is counted each time an individual uses a lift ticket or pass at a ski area. NSAA has tracked visits since the 1978-79 season.
