Outdoor Recreation Generates $1 Trillion for US Economy in 2022

The Wind River mountains in Lander, Wyoming have been a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts since the start of the pandemic. People seeking to avoid getting sick and feeling restless at home have flocked to the region’s scenic beauty and outdoor activities. However, this influx of visitors has also put pressure on public lands maintained by federal workers. Concerns have been raised about the potential impact of a government shutdown on these areas, which could harm mountain towns such as Lander.

Despite these challenges, the outdoor recreation sector has seen significant growth across the United States since the start of the pandemic. New data from the Bureau of Economic Analysis indicates that outdoor recreation contributed over $1 trillion in economic output in 2022. This sector has become a significant force in the economy, comprising 2.2% of the national GDP.

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