Colorado Ski Resorts Riding Out The Economic Storm

Hello from Crested Butte,

It seems skiers and snowboarders are riding out the economic downturn by making a lot of turns at Colorado’s ski resorts. Colorado Ski Country USA reported today that total skier visits at its 22 member resorts were down only 7.7 percent during the first period of the 2008-09 ski season, defined as October 15, 2008 through December 31, 2008. However, this period does not include four days of the 2009 New Year’s week, when resorts experienced high, and in some cases record, volumes of guests.

"We know that skiers and snowboarders are dedicated to their sports and optimistic by nature," explains Melanie Mills, president and CEO of Colorado Ski Country USA. "While business is down compared to the last few record-setting seasons, we are seeing participation levels this year that exceed expectations and show strong performance in our sector of the travel industry."

Consistent snowfall, for which Colorado resorts are known, is one key factor affecting skier visits. History indicates that in a variable economy, snow conditions play an important role in influencing skiers. This past December, snowfall records were broken at Silverton, Crested Butte Mountain Resort, and Telluride. If you want to ski or ride, Colorado has it.

Thanks for visiting today,

Channing Boucher
Visit My Crested Butte Real Estate Guide