Colorado Skier Visits Fell 4 Percent Last Season

Denver--Despite sub-par weather, ski areas in this bellwether state managed a respectable season last winter, Colorado Ski Country USA reported Thursday.

Skier and snowboarder visits to Colorado resorts fell 4 percent to 11.1 million, compared to the 2000-01 season. That was better than the U.S. ski resort industry as a whole, which experienced a decline of 5.5 percent.

"In light of the obstacles the entire tourism industry faced post-September 11, including travel and safety fears, a national recession and below average snowfall, we are very encouraged with how the ski and snowboard industry fared in Colorado this season," said David Perry, president and chief executive officer of the Colorado resort association.

As happened nationally, Colorado areas saw the biggest fall-offs in the early and late seasons. The Christmas holiday season was strong and visits increased in February and March, the association said.

Colorado is the most important state in the U.S. resort industry, accounting for one of every 5 skier and snowboarder visits.

The biggest decline of 5 percent came at destination resorts, which include the Aspen areas, Crested Butte, Telluride and Steamboat.

Visits fell 4.3 percent at Front Range destination resorts, which include the four Vail properties, Copper Mountain and Winter Park.

Front Range resorts--three small areas mostly frequented by locals--saw a 2.1 percent drop in visits.