Numerous ski resorts could not operate at full capacity during 2022. Nevertheless, the most recent data shows that skier numbers were remarkably resilient, exceeding 370 million on a global scale over the season, up from 201 million the previous winter but still below the pre-pandemic average. Despite this, several countries spanning both the Northern and Southern Hemispheres celebrated their best-ever ski seasons by visitor numbers.

This exceptional performance owes much to favourable weather conditions in many regions. Consistently cold temperatures and sunny days provided optimal skiing conditions, even with somewhat limited snowfall. Moreover, a revived interest in outdoor activities and domestic travel worked in favour of ski destinations, particularly those with strong domestic markets. As countries continued to ease pandemic restrictions, skiers eagerly returned to the slopes.

Some emerging markets, such as Eastern Europe, have made significant strides in developing their ski industry, contributing to unprecedented numbers of skier visits in recent years. Even China, despite lingering Covid-19 restrictions, witnessed a resurgence in skier visits, fuelled by the enthusiasm generated by the 2022 Beijing Winter Olympics. Additionally, the resumption of lift renewals, which had been on hold for weeks or months in 2020, contributed to the overall positive trend.

Regional trends

The United States tops the world rankings for skier visits, with over 60 million visitors during the 2022/23 season. This performance is especially outstanding once costs are taken into consideration — lift passes in America cost significantly more than other major ski nations. Within the United States, the Rocky Mountains and the Northeast are the most visited ski and snowboarding destinations. Combined, those two regions were responsible for 59% of all ski and snowboard visits in 2022/23.

Europe’s ski season presented a mixed picture. Many resorts enjoyed excellent snowfall, providing ideal skiing conditions and attracting winter sports enthusiasts. Others, however, faced variable weather patterns, limiting season length. Overall, the season reflected a resilient ski industry, adapting to challenges and offering a promising outlook for ski enthusiasts in Europe.

The relaxations of Covid-19 restrictions in December 2022 adversely impacted China’s ski season, resulting in the country’s largest wave of cases over the winter months. The number of skiers in China fell by 8% to 19.8 million for the 2022/23 season. Japan’s Hokkaido saw record snowfall, boosting skier numbers and giving Niseko and Furano increased visits. Similar to many other countries coming out of the pandemic, there has been a push in preference for sports and leisure activities in recent months. Should this trend continue through to the 2023/24 season, we could see an increase in skier numbers, though there may also be rising competition from overseas markets, as international travel has opened up.

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