Who's skiing?

Leisure Trends did a national survey on who's skiing, and I thought it was pretty interesting. Here’s a quick summary:

Increase in first-time skiers (3.4% this season, up from below 1% for the last two years).

Increase in first-time riders (10% this season, up from below 1% for the last two years).

Increase in first-time visitors to a resort (23%, a six year high — low was 16% in 2004).

Continual increase in 19 to 24-year-olds (18% - the highest figure in 11 years).

Continued decline in 30-34 year olds (8% - down from 14% in 1995. Trend shows gradual decline over 11 years).

All other age groups holding their percentages - no significant increases in 50+

Decline in married (46%, down from a high of 58%).

Decline in percent traveling with children under age of 16 (23% - lowest in 11 years).

Empty nesters also declining (9% - from 13% in 2000).

Percentage of season passholders (continues to increase to 30% of all ticket holders).

Influence of the season pass on where to ski/ride is very high at 21% - behind ease of getting to (37%); influence of friends (29%); and ahead of terrain variety (20%).

Ease of getting to the resort is at a record high level in influence of choosing a resort (37%).

Internet continues to grow as an influential source of information (11% up from an average of 9%-10%. Prior to 2000 was 7%-8%).

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