Summary: The 2025–26 US ski season is being reshaped by geopolitical tensions and uneven snowfall. A sharp drop in Canadian visitors is hitting some Northeastern resorts hard, while a snow drought in the West is limiting ski operations and bookings.

The 2025–26 US ski season has become atypical as political frictions and abnormal weather patterns combine to alter travel behaviour and resort operations. US ski tourism is experiencing two broad trends: a noticeable absence of Canadian skiers driven by diplomatic concerns, and a stark contrast in snowfall between an unusually snowy East and a drought-affected West.

Canadian Absences Hit Northeastern Resorts

Resorts that have long depended on Canadians are feeling the shortfall acutely. Jay Peak Resort in northern Vermont, which traditionally draws about half its business from Canadian visitors, has seen that market evaporate this season. Owner Steven Wright says that while low snow is a factor in some areas, the predominant issue for his property has been the political climate, with Canadian season pass holders reluctant to cross the border amid heightened diplomatic rhetoric and travel uncertainty.

Wright told a U.S. Senate committee that the drop in Canadian guests is affecting more than lift ticket sales: the wider hospitality sector — including weddings, conferences and local businesses that rely on winter tourism — is also suffering as visitor numbers decline.

Confirmed Drop in Cross‑Border Travel

Government and travel data corroborate the decline in cross‑border movement. Statistics Canada reports a sharp fall in car crossings, while U.S. federal travel figures show Canadian arrivals to the United States well below last year’s totals, compounding pressure on resorts that rely on cross‑border markets.

  • Car crossings from the U.S. into Canada were down 30% in December 2025 versus December 2024
  • Canadian arrivals to the U.S. through November 2025 were 22% lower than in 2024
  • Jay Peak typically sees about 50% of visitors from Canada
  • Canadian bookings for some Western resorts have fallen by 41%
  • Whitefish Mountain Resort reported a 25% drop in Canadian visitors

East Sees Heavy Snow; West Faces Drought

While some Northeastern and New England resorts have benefited from a hefty snowfall, conditions across the Western United States are the opposite. Several areas in Vermont and New Hampshire have recorded exceptionally high totals — in places exceeding 200 inches — helping to attract domestic skiers and offset some international shortfalls. Resort officials have described this bounty as "white gold".

Conversely, established Western destinations such as Vail and Aspen report snowfall roughly 50% below historical averages. The snow drought has reduced lift operations and deterred visitors, with operators in the West relying more heavily on snowmaking and the domestic market to keep slopes and lodges viable.

Local Impacts and Resort Responses

Communities that depend on winter visitors are adjusting to new realities. Owners and operators are prioritising domestic markets, boosting marketing to U.S. skiers, and expanding non‑winter offerings to stabilise year‑round revenue. For many resort towns, these changes are crucial to sustaining local employment and businesses through an unpredictable season.

  • Investing in snowmaking systems to counteract low natural snowfall
  • Expanding year‑round activities: mountain biking, water parks and indoor attractions
  • Upgrading lodging and guest services to attract domestic visitors
  • Targeting new markets to reduce reliance on single international sources
Skiers on a snowy slope with resort buildings in the background, illustrating contrasting conditions across US ski regions
Contrasting conditions: some Eastern resorts saw heavy snowfall while Western areas struggled with a snow drought

The Future of Ski Tourism: Adaptation Required

Industry observers say the sector must adapt to a landscape shaped by geopolitics, climate variability and shifting traveller preferences. The political dynamics between China, Japan and the U.S. — along with ongoing diplomatic tensions affecting Canada — are expected to continue influencing cross‑border travel patterns. Resorts that diversify offerings, invest in resilient snow infrastructure and engage emerging markets will be better positioned for long‑term stability.

For travellers and the industry, the season highlights the importance of flexible planning. Skiers should check resort conditions and cancellation policies before booking, while operators and local governments will need to continue innovating to protect livelihoods and maintain the quality of the guest experience.