How Climate Change is Impacting Winter Sports

Winter sports enthusiasts have long been drawn to the crisp air, fresh snow, and thrilling descents down mountain slopes. But as global temperatures rise and climate patterns shift, the future of winter sports is becoming more uncertain. From ski resorts adapting to shorter seasons to athletes worrying about where they’ll train in the coming years, climate change is already making its mark on the sports we associate with snowy landscapes.

Let’s take a closer look at how climate change is reshaping the world of winter sports and what that means for the future of these beloved activities.

Shorter Seasons, Less Snow

One of the most immediate effects of climate change on winter sports is the reduction in snowfall and the shortening of the winter season. Warmer temperatures mean that snow is not only melting faster but also falling less frequently. According to the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC), global temperatures have already risen by 1.1°C since the pre-industrial era, and this is contributing to a steady decrease in snow cover across many regions.

“A lot of resorts are struggling to stay open for their usual season lengths,” says Patrick Thorne, also known as “The Snowhunter,” a ski industry expert and writer. “In some areas, the number of days where skiing is even possible has been cut in half. That’s a huge concern for everyone in the industry, from resort operators to athletes.”

Thorne’s insights are backed by data from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), which shows that snowpack in parts of the U.S. has declined by up to 30% in recent decades. In Europe, the picture is similarly bleak. The European Environment Agency (EEA) has reported a significant reduction in the length of the ski season, particularly at lower altitudes.

Resorts Turning to Artificial Snow

To combat the impacts of warmer winters, many ski resorts are turning to artificial snowmaking to keep their slopes open. While this has been an effective short-term solution, it comes with its own environmental costs. Snowmaking requires significant amounts of water and energy, which are already scarce resources in some regions.

"Ski resorts are under pressure to maintain business, and snowmaking has become essential,” says Dave Belin, director of consulting services for RRC Associates, a firm that tracks trends in the ski industry. “But snowmaking isn’t sustainable long-term. It’s costly, and in the context of a warming world, it’s not a viable solution forever.”

Belin’s comments echo concerns raised by environmentalists, who argue that artificial snowmaking only delays the inevitable. As climate change continues, some ski resorts, particularly those at lower altitudes, may no longer be able to sustain winter operations, regardless of the use of snowmaking technology.

Athletes Feeling the Heat

It’s not just resorts that are feeling the impact of climate change—athletes are too. Winter sports athletes, from recreational skiers to elite professionals, are finding it harder to train and compete in consistent conditions. Snow-dependent sports such as skiing, snowboarding, and ice skating are all being affected.

Lindsey Vonn, one of the most decorated alpine skiers of all time, has spoken out about her concerns over the future of winter sports. “There’s no doubt that climate change is having an impact,” she said in an interview with The New York Times. “I’ve seen it myself—the snow conditions are just not what they used to be, and it’s frustrating as an athlete. You have to constantly adapt.”

Vonn’s sentiments are echoed by Tina Maze, a Slovenian alpine skier and Olympic gold medalist. Maze has also highlighted how climate change is shifting competition schedules, making it harder for athletes to perform at their best. “The unpredictability of the weather is really challenging,” Maze noted in a piece for CNN. “Races are being postponed or canceled more often. It’s tough on everyone.”

The Economic Ripple Effect

Winter sports aren’t just a pastime for many people—they’re big business. The global ski industry is worth billions of dollars and supports entire communities. According to the International Ski Federation (FIS), the global ski market generates over $70 billion annually, and climate change threatens that revenue stream.

As snow becomes less predictable, resort towns that rely on winter tourism are feeling the pinch. In some regions, hotels, restaurants, and other businesses that depend on tourists flocking to the slopes are seeing fewer visitors. The economic impact is profound, especially in rural areas where the ski season drives the local economy.

Jesse Hunt, program director of the Park City Ski and Snowboard Team, noted in an interview with NBC News that local economies built around skiing are particularly vulnerable. “For towns that rely on a long winter season, a lack of snow can be devastating. We’re already seeing resorts diversify with summer activities like mountain biking and hiking, but winter sports are still the bread and butter for many of these places.”

What’s Next for Winter Sports?

While the future of winter sports may look uncertain, there’s hope on the horizon. Many resorts, athletes, and organizations are taking steps to combat climate change and promote sustainability. The Protect Our Winters (POW) initiative, led by professional snowboarder Jeremy Jones, is a coalition of athletes and outdoor enthusiasts advocating for climate action.

“We’re not powerless in the face of climate change,” Jones said in an interview with Time Magazine. “We have to push for policies that protect our winters and take action to reduce carbon emissions. It’s not just about saving winter sports—it’s about protecting the planet for future generations.”

The rise of sustainable tourism, along with more eco-friendly practices in the sports industry, offers a glimmer of hope. But for winter sports lovers, the message is clear: if we don’t act fast, the snowy landscapes we cherish may be at risk of disappearing.