SALT LAKE CITY — The U.S. Department of Commerce’s Bureau of Economic Analysis (BEA) has released economic data for 2023, showcasing outdoor recreation’s significant economic impact on Utah. According to the BEA, Utah’s outdoor recreation economy grew to an impressive $9.5 billion in value-added, now contributing 3.4% of Utah’s GDP and supporting 71,898 jobs.

“Outdoor recreation is a key contributor to Utah’s economy, and this year’s economic data reinforces its critical role in our state,” said Jason Curry, director of the Utah Division of Outdoor Recreation. “Given Utah’s renowned diverse landscapes and the wide variety of outdoor activities available to residents and visitors, it’s no surprise to see continued growth. It shows that the state’s commitment to preserving and enhancing outdoor experiences enriches lives and drives significant economic benefits for communities.”

Since the BEA began tracking outdoor recreation’s economic contributions in 2012, Utah has experienced an average 8.4% yearly growth rate, the highest of any state, reflecting the state’s leadership in the outdoor recreation sector. In 2013, Utah set a national precedent by becoming the first state to establish an Office of Outdoor Recreation, which has since expanded into the Division of Outdoor Recreation. Utah’s pioneering efforts have inspired 24 other states to establish offices or divisions dedicated to outdoor recreation, further emphasizing the state’s role as a leader in the industry.

Winter sports and bicycling fuel economic growth

Utah ranks third in the nation for winter sports, which continues to be the largest contributor to Utah’s outdoor recreation economy, with $643 million in value-added in 2023. Activities such as skiing, snowboarding, snowmobiling and snowshoeing are key economic drivers in communities throughout most of the state, and the winter sports sector supports jobs in industries like lodging, dining, equipment rentals and more.

Meanwhile, bicycling experienced record growth, with a 43% increase in value-added from 2022, reaching $73 million in 2023. This surge reflects Utah’s growing reputation as a cycling destination, fueled by expanding trail systems, improved infrastructure and an increasing number of cycling events that attract bikers from across the country, including the fastest-growing National Interscholastic Cycling Association (NICA) league in the nation.

Key Highlights from the 2023 data on Utah’s outdoor recreation economy:

  • $9.5 billion in economic output; up from $8.1 billion in 2022, a nearly 18% increase
  • 3.4% of Utah’s GDP
  • 71,898 jobs and $4.3 billion in wages
  • Top industries include snow activities, $643 million; RVing, $412 million; boating/fishing, $537 million; hunting/shooting/trapping, $331 million; OHV/motorcycling/ATVing, $166 million; climbing/hiking/tent camping, $143 million; bicycling, $73 million
  • Bicycling saw a 43% increase in value-added from 2022, reflecting a growing trend in cycling participation across Utah
  • Utah ranks 3rd in the nation for winter sports, which remains the top industry in the state’s outdoor recreation economy

Nationally, the 2023 numbers show outdoor recreation contributes $1.2 trillion in economic output (2.5% of GDP), supporting 5.2 million jobs. This reflects the sector’s sustained growth as a vital part of the U.S. economy. (ORR Release Link)

For more information, visit recreation.utah.gov.

About Utah Division of Outdoor Recreation

In 2022, the Utah State Legislature recognized the growing importance of the outdoors to Utah’s economic prosperity and quality of life and created the Utah Division of Outdoor Recreation (DOR). As part of the Utah Department of Natural Resources, DOR combines the nation’s first Office of Outdoor Recreation with other state recreation management programs, including Utah’s Boating Program, Off-Highway Vehicle (OHV) Program, and recreation law enforcement officers. DOR is committed to ensuring health, safety, enjoyment, and economic benefit through life-enriching, high quality outdoor recreation for all of Utah’s residents and visitors. DOR’s areas of focus include recreational access; safety and education; stewardship and sustainable visitation; and economic growth and opportunity through outdoor recreation. For more information, visit recreation.utah.gov.