DestiMetrics data are based on approximately 290 property management companies in 19 mountain destination communities across Colorado, Utah, California, Nevada, Oregon and Wyoming.

“With actual occupancy in the month of May up 7.5 percent compared to last year, June bookings currently pacing up 3.9 percent, and the entire summer showing strong growth, it looks like mountain resorts are in good shape to reach their fifth consecutive year of record business,” said Ralf Garrison, director of DestiMetrics. “Summer is a growth opportunity season for mountain destinations. . . . Mountain resorts have been capitalizing on that untapped potential by expanding their recreational offerings, base area amenities, calendar of special events and marketing to a wide audience of outdoor enthusiasts.”

Tom Foley, operations director for DestiMetrics, added, “Also boding well for summer travel is the lower cost for fuel, with gasoline prices down a dramatic 45 percent from the same time last year—and expected to stay at this level throughout the summer.”

The DestiMetrics data also revealed that lead time for bookings is also getting longer, following the trend observed in winter bookings for the past two years. That, said Garrison, “is another reassuring trend for mountain properties, as it increases the chances of guests following through with their mountain vacation plans, even if the market or weather events experience a shift from expectations.”