West Virginia Governor Patrick Morrisey Highlights Tourism Growth and Winter Season

Kickoff to Winter Tourism Season

• ⛷️ Governor Patrick Morrisey welcomed the official beginning of the ski season at Winterplace Ski Resort, noting that all five of West Virginia's ski resorts are now open.
• ❄️ The state is projecting over 18.5 million visitors this winter, drawn by excellent conditions and the beauty of a "wild and wonderful" West Virginia.
• 🌲 Other resorts like Timberline Mountain and Snowshoe Mountain are also highlighted for their offerings.

West Virginia's Tourism Economic Impact

• 📈 The state has surpassed $9.1 billion in annual tourism economic impact, a first-time record, with visitor volume reaching 77.2 million travelers.
• 💰 Visitor spending is up 28% since 2019, outpacing the national recovery rate and demonstrating growing demand for West Virginia experiences.
• 💸 Tourism generated $1.1 billion in tax revenue last year, reducing the tax burden on residents by nearly $859 per household and supporting over 61,000 jobs.

Investment and Experience Driving Growth

• 🗺️ Continued investment in marketing and infrastructure, including state parks and private sector upgrades at resorts, is crucial for promoting West Virginia as a destination.
• ✨ The primary driver of tourism growth is the exceptional experiences and hospitality provided by West Virginians, leading to high return visitation rates.
• 🏞️ Keeping national parks open during a government shutdown resulted in a 25% increase in visitation to the New River Gorge National Park and Preserve in October.

Winter Sports and Attractions

• 🛷 West Virginia is recognized as a top destination for learning to ski and snow tubing, with Winterplace receiving specific accolades.
• 🏞️ Iconic attractions like the Blackwater Falls sled run, the longest on the East Coast, offer additional winter adventures.
• 🎣 The "Monster Trout Contest" was highlighted, with Michael Wah announced as a winner for catching a tagged monster trout.

Partnership and Future Outlook

• 🤝 The West Virginia Ski Association, Department of Highways, and tourism department collaborate to ensure safe and accessible winter recreation.
• 🌟 The state aims to continue investing in tourism to grow the economy, lift the standard of living, and showcase West Virginia as a "shining state in the mountains."