Vt. outdoor recreation economy grew to $2.1B in 2023

MONTPELIER, Vt. (WCAX) – Outdoor recreation grew Vermont’s economy by $2.1 billion last year, according to new federal data, accounting for nearly five percent of the state’s gross domestic product.

The numbers from the U.S. Commerce Department show Vermont is second in the country — behind Hawaii — for that sector’s impact on the GDP.

State officials say the outdoor economy extends beyond ski resorts and lodging to bike shops, gear manufacturers, and retail stores. “When I think about how important outdoor recreation is for the state of Vermont, I think it’s also it’s part of our culture. You know something that you know, residents enjoy, visitors enjoy. It’s just part of what makes Vermont, Vermont, and that’s really something for us to celebrate anytime,” said Vt. Tourism and Marketing Commissioner Heather Pelham.

The highest contributor to Vermont’s outdoor sector in 2023 was snow activities like skiing, snowboarding, snowmobiling, and snowshoeing.