American ski destinations are preparing for a significant drop in Canadian tourism but remain hopeful of enticing their northern neighbors back this holiday season. The decision to travel south may depend more on snow conditions than political factors. While it is early in the season, there are indications that Canadians are becoming less adamant about spending their money closer to home.
One December morning, Montana’s Whitefish Mountain Resort, located about an hour south of the Canadian border, was relatively quiet following a rainy start to the week. Despite this, Chad Sokol, the resort’s public relations manager, expressed optimism that visitor numbers would increase by Christmas, traditionally a busy period for the resort.
Canadian license plates are a common sight in Flathead County, which encompasses ski towns like Whitefish and Kalispell. Canadians visit these areas in winter for skiing, in summer for boating, and throughout the year for shopping or medical tourism.
Border crossings and Canadian credit card spending in the region saw a significant decline from January to September. Factors like the weak Canadian dollar and unfavorable weather conditions in Whitefish have contributed to the decrease in Canadian visitors, while the Canadian Rockies have experienced a thriving tourist season with abundant early season snowfall.
The National Ski Areas Association anticipates a slowdown in Canadian visitation this year, particularly affecting larger resorts near the border. Efforts are being made by businesses in Kalispell to attract Canadian visitors, such as offering discounts on various services and accommodations.
Signs suggest that Canadian attitudes towards traveling south may be shifting, with indications of a potential softening in their resolve to stay north of the border. However, the decision to visit American ski towns like those in Montana may ultimately hinge on weather conditions, as resorts with favorable snow conditions are likely to attract more visitors.
Overall, the situation remains fluid, with various factors influencing Canadian tourism to the U.S. ski destinations.