The U.S. ski resort industry survived the 2020-21 season, with no ski area closing mid-season due to Covid (which cannot be said of resorts in Canada or Europe). In fact, nearly 4 out of 5 ski areas said that last season exceeded their expectations, no doubt in large part to pre-season preparations and in-season diligence on the part of resort staff to keep guests and employees safe.
Now the 2021-22 ski season is nearly upon us. Arapahoe Basin is getting snowmaking equipment and staff ready, Vail Resorts sold 42% more Epic Passes this year than last, my son’s Ikon Pass arrived in the mail last week, and many resort improvements are getting wrapped up.
What will this upcoming season hold? Will the industry do as well during this Covid purgatory season? Many restrictions and reservations are being dropped and kids are back in school, but masks will still be required indoors at many ski areas. The economy is strong, which is always positive for the ski industry. Interest in outdoor recreation and spending on outdoor gear remain high. We’ll have to see what Mother Nature has in store in terms of snow and weather conditions. Stay tuned, it will be interesting to see how the season turns out.
