Industry Facts

Minnesota ski areas are important drivers of winter tourism, jobs, local spending, and community investment across the state.

2024/25 Season

By the Numbers

In the 2024/25 winter season, the statewide economic value of Minnesota's ski industry was estimated at $359.1 million, including $180.4 million in direct economic activity and $178.7 million in indirect and induced impacts.

$359.1M

Total statewide economic value, 2024/25 season

$180.4M

Direct winter economic activity from visitor spending & capital investment

2,852

Jobs supported by the industry's direct, indirect & induced impact

Operating ski areas statewide

$81M+

Gross ski area operating revenue, 2024/25

$31.9M

Capital improvements in lifts, snowmaking, facilities & technology

$134.54

Average spend per skier/snowboarder, per day

55.3%

Of that spending occurred off-mountain in surrounding communities

Minnesota Ski Industry

Quick Facts

1.45M

Average annual skier visits over the past decade

1.75×

Minnesotans ski & ride at 1.75× the national average frequency

22.1%

Of Midwest skier visits are in Minnesota (2.5% of total U.S. visits)

4,500+

Children participate in the 4th Grade Passport program each year

Why It Matters

Ski Areas Support More Than Skiing

Minnesota ski areas are economic anchors for surrounding communities. Skiers and snowboarders spend money not only at the hill, but also at nearby hotels, restaurants, breweries, gas stations, retail stores, and other local businesses.

Ski areas continue to reinvest in their operations and the future of winter tourism. In 2024/25, areas invested nearly $31.9 million in capital improvements, including more than $24.6 million in snowmaking and $3.5 million in new and upgraded lifts. These investments improve reliability, strengthen operations, and support long-term sustainability — sustaining winter tourism, supporting local employers, and providing healthy outdoor recreation for Minnesota families.

Full report: 2024 MnSAA Statewide Economic Impact Report (2024/25 Minnesota Economic Impact Analysis of Snowsports).

View the Report (PDF)

Source: 2024/25 Minnesota Economic Impact Analysis of Snowsports, commissioned by the Minnesota Ski Areas Association and conducted by RRC Associates.

Statewide

Minnesota Ski Areas Map

Twenty member ski areas operate across Minnesota — from the metro to the north shore.

Member Areas

Areas by Name or City

Area	City