Ski industry working against ‘roller coaster’ drop ahead in baby boomer skier visits

Ski resorts tackle future with fewer baby boomers

VAIL, Colo. — Ski resorts have planned for years for a drop-off of visits from aging baby boomers, but an industry researcher says the issue is becoming more urgent.

Nate Fristoe of the research firm RRC Associates says older baby boomers, now 55 to 64, started dropping out more rapidly when they turned 54. Now, younger boomers, ages 45 to 54, are approaching that birthday.

Fristoe spoke at an industry conference Wednesday in Vail, sponsored by Resort Technology Partners.

In the last decade, resorts have embraced snowboarding, added terrain parks and boosted summer offerings.

CEO Matthew Drake of Mt. Hood Meadows Ski Resort in Oregon sees room for more growth. He says snow sports can help improve the nation’s health and get people off the couch.