Recreation Industry Nearing The Trillion-Dollar Mark

Above, at the Ouray, Colorado KOA Kampground. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

We are bearing down on the end of the summer vacation season. The Labor Day weekend is the unofficial end of the summer vacation season, which is only a week away.

But people still will head out on the road during the autumn season.

According to The Daily Item, the outdoor recreation industry is nearing the trillion-dollar mark.

They begin with:

With many Americans turning to the outdoors for a personal slice of Heaven, the outdoor recreation industry is pushing toward the trillion-dollar mark. People are seeking places to get outdoors, enjoy nature, relax, and reset. Along with modern amenities, RV Travel and #vanlife are helping drive America’s $862 billion outdoor recreation industry.

Time outside

According to the American Express global travel trends report, 68% of people prefer traveling where they can be outdoors and get mental clarity. And with end-of-summer and fall weather on the horizon for much of the U.S., cooler temperatures are a time Americans look to for a weekend getaway, hiking, camping, and leaf-peeping to escape the hustle and bustle of the work week.

To read more, go here. 

Navajo Lake Fishing, Size, Depth and More

Above, boating on Navajo Lake on a rental pontoon boat. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

Last summer, my former roommate Jessica and I went to Navajo Lake in Northern New Mexico for some relaxation and recreation.

We camped at Cottonwood Campground and rented a pontoon boat while there. Jet skis are also available for rent. We had a good time.

AZ Animals has an article on Navajo Lake with plenty of information.

They begin with:

Navajo Lake is located in the southwestern part of the United States, primarily in New Mexico. The lake is considered the second-largest lake in New Mexico and offers tons of recreational activities for visitors. Interestingly enough, the original purpose of this beautiful lake was not to simply have fun. Instead, it was originally constructed as a means for water storage and irrigation. The history behind this lake is incredibly fascinating. Today it has become a popular destination for fishing, swimming, and more! So are you interested in learning about Navajo Lake? Discover everything there is to know about this large reservoir that extends into two states and offers lots of fun activities for everyone to enjoy.

To read the full article, go here. 

National Forest Week

Out here in McKinley County of New Mexico, every week is "National Forest Week", provided the weather permits. Since our community abuts the Cibola National Forest, we make great use of it for recreation.

But there's an official National Forest Week. 

According to the National Forest Foundation:

July 10-16, 2023

Celebrate the incredible 193-million-acre National Forest System and all the benefits it provides to the public.

FOREST MODE

This year’s theme invites the public to consider what Forest Mode looks like in their life. Whether it is a thrilling whitewater adventure, a quiet evening by the campfire, or a rugged trek on backcountry trails, there are countless ways people find their Forest Mode. Anytime you visit a National Forest, be sure to #RecreateResponsibly to ensure these places stay healthy for future generations.

For more information, go here. 

Grand Teton Boat Permits Move To Online System

Above, the marina at Colter Bay Village on Jackson Lake. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

Planning on doing some boating at Grand Teton National Park? Well, there's some good news for you.

The Grand Teton boat permits have moved to an online system.

According to Yellowstone Gate:

MOOSE, WY- Boaters to Grand Teton National Park and the John D. Rockefeller, Jr. Memorial Parkway will have the option to purchase their park boating permits online via Recreation.gov beginning Tuesday, April 6.   

The new online mail-order system will improve the visitor experience by allowing boaters to plan ahead and have their permit mailed directly to them within two weeks. The system allows for contactless ordering and will provide an opportunity for the park to share educational materials with visitors prior to their arrival.

The park will continue to issue boating permits during summer operations at the Craig Thomas Discovery and Visitor Center and Colter Bay Visitor Center permit desks, according to a statement released by the park’s public affairs office. Permits are required for all boats including stand-up paddleboards (SUPs), kayaks, and canoes.

The cost for a 2021 Grand Teton National Park boat permit increases to $17 for non-motorized boats and $56 for motorized boats. Boat permit fees help offset the costs associated with waterway patrols, aquatic invasive species inspections, and transition to online services.

To read more, go here.