Destination BC says prime outdoor tourism opportunities on offer in the Kootenay Rockies are drawing in plenty of visitors and boosting local economies.
According to Destination BC’s latest regional profile, the Kootenay Rockies’ tourism sector raked in $1.1 billion in 2022, making up 6.2 per cent of B.C.’s total overnight spending.
“The Kootenay Rockies really reflects the region’s unique mixture of experiences, from the ski season to the mountain resorts and backcountry adventures,” said Erin Hodgins, Destination BC’s Director of Research and Analytics.
“There were over 7,000 tourism-related jobs in 2022, which contributed to $400 million in regional GDP. This is a clear indication of tourism’s economic strengths.”
Canadian travellers made up the bulk of overnight stays in the region in 2022, with Albertans alone making up 48 per cent of visitors.
“The region also attracts those international travellers, particularly from the U.S. and the UK, which really highlights the area’s global appeal,” said Hodgins.
The data profile also accounts for resident sentiment toward the local tourism industry, which is largely positive among Kootenay Rockies communities.
“82 per cent of residents believe their community is a desirable place to visit and appreciate the economic contributions that visitors bring,” said Hodgins.
“This is a strong indication that tourism is not only welcomed for its economic impact, but also valued as a positive part of community life.”
According to data from Destination BC, most visitors come to the region from July to September, as people take up outdoor activities in the warm summer weather.
Hodgins says the data presented in the region’s profile can help tourism businesses make informed decisions.
“Looking at those seasonal trends, evolving visitor needs and resident perception helps to make sure tourism development is guided and aligned with community values. It’s important that it’s done through a data-led approach,” said Hodgins.
“The regional profiles can really help communities, tourism operators and industry partners understand who their visitors are, what motivates them, how they spend their time and money and how to strategically plan to align with those travel expectations.”
You can see the full regional profile here.
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