American ski towns 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. Despite a slow start at Montana’s Whitefish Mountain Resort, optimism remains high for an increase in visitors by Christmas, traditionally one of the busiest times for the resort.
Canadian license plates are a common sight in Flathead County, home to Whitefish and nearby Kalispell, where Canadians visit for skiing in winter, boating in summer, and shopping year-round. However, border crossings and Canadian spending in the region have declined significantly from January to September, attributed to various factors including the weak Canadian dollar and unfavorable weather conditions.
In contrast, the Canadian Rockies are experiencing a surge in business with abundant early-season snow, attracting both local and international visitors. SkiBig3, offering packages to Banff and Lake Louise resorts, has reported increased ticket sales from Canadian, U.S., U.K., and Australian visitors.
The National Ski Areas Association anticipates a slowdown in Canadian visitation this year, especially affecting larger resorts near the border. Efforts to entice Canadian visitors include discounted offerings from businesses in Kalispell such as Bias Brewing and Switchback Suites, as well as promotional campaigns organized by the chamber of commerce.
While some Canadians remain hesitant to travel to the U.S. due to political reasons, there are indications of a slight shift in sentiment, with Alberta license plates reappearing in Kalispell. The potential return of Canadian tourists to Montana ski towns may ultimately hinge on favorable weather conditions, as observed at Jay Peak resort in Vermont.
Overall, the tourism industry is hopeful for a rebound in Canadian visitation, emphasizing the importance of attractive snow conditions in driving visitor numbers.