Utah sees exponential growth in backcountry skiing and snowmobiling participation

The Utah Outdoor Adventure Commission has highlighted a significant increase in outdoor recreational activities, particularly backcountry skiing and snowmobiling, during its recent meeting on December 12, 2023. The commission noted a remarkable 20-fold growth in backcountry skiing participation over the past two decades, driven by rising costs at ski resorts and a growing interest in exploring less-traveled areas. This trend underscores the need for improved access to information and safety education for outdoor enthusiasts.

Commission members emphasized the importance of dispersing recreational users across various locations to alleviate congestion at popular trailheads. They pointed out that many individuals tend to stick to familiar areas due to a lack of information about new destinations. By enhancing data availability and safety resources, the commission aims to encourage more people to explore diverse outdoor spaces.

The economic impact of snow sports in Utah is substantial, contributing approximately $8.1 billion to the state’s economy, with snowmobiling alone accounting for around $200 million. The growth rate in snowmobiling is particularly noteworthy, at 54%, compared to an overall category growth of 29%. This surge in outdoor activities has prompted discussions about the need for better search and rescue support and educational resources to ensure safety in backcountry environments.

Technological advancements, particularly in avalanche forecasting and data collection, were also a focal point of the meeting. The commission discussed leveraging artificial intelligence and machine learning to enhance weather forecasting capabilities, potentially providing the equivalent of thousands of weather stations' worth of data across Utah's mountain ranges. This innovative approach aims to improve safety for both recreational users and professionals involved in search and rescue operations.

In addition to these discussions, the commission is exploring ways to assist with National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) requests, recognizing the need for state mechanisms to support environmental assessments related to outdoor recreation projects.

As Utah continues to see a rise in outdoor activities, the commission's efforts to improve access to information, safety education, and technological resources will play a crucial role in fostering a safe and enjoyable environment for all outdoor enthusiasts.