OUTDOOR RECREATION AND ECONOMIC IMPACTS TO THE STATE OF COLORADO

Abstract

The study examines the economic impacts of outdoor recreation in Colorado, one of the most important outdoor tourism destinations in the United States. The aim of the research was to explore the main factors driving the industry’s development, its economic effects, as well as the challenges and opportunities related to sustainability. Outdoor recreation has grown dynamically over the past decade, particularly following the COVID-19 pandemic. The theoretical background of the paper focused on the historical development of the concept and its economic, social, and environmental impacts. The research was based on data collected by Colorado Parks & Wildlife (CPW) and the Statewide Comprehensive Outdoor Recreation Plan (SCORP), which were supplemented by statistical analyses. The analysis examined five main activity categories: hiking, water sports, winter sports, wildlife-related activities, and other recreational activities. According to the results, outdoor recreation generated more than $65.8 billion in economic impact in 2023, contributing 12.4% to the state’s GDP and creating over 404,000 jobs. Based on the research conducted, it can be concluded that the development of transportation infrastructure and the management of climate change are crucial for longterm sustainability. The studies I processed provide guidance for industry developments and sustainable tourism policies