Ski resort reports declining Canadian visits
There have been two key issues regarding Canada in recent months that potentially have had an impact on the number of Canadians crossing the border and spending time — and tourist dollars — in the North Country:
The proposed 25% tariffs on Canadian goods and the change in hours of two border crossings in the area.
On Jan. 6, the Chateaugay and Trout River, border crossings started new hours and are only open from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m., which means Canadians wishing to visit Titus Mountain must travel further to enter the United States if they don't cross during that window of time.
According to Titus Mountain's Director of Operations Bruce Monette III, he has heard that some visitors from Canada have indeed experienced issues traveling from Quebec with the borders closing at 6 p.m. and making it difficult for them to come enjoy a day of skiing.
'We haven't heard much feedback from the Canadians regarding the tariffs,' Monette said, adding that he has noticed less visitors from our neighbors to the north. 'Our Canadian traffic is slightly down, but we are not sure if that is because of the tariffs, or the border crossing situation.'
Although there is no way to know the real reason for the apparent decline in visitors from Canada, Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau on Feb. 2 addressed the tariffs proposed by President Donald Trump and urged Canada's citizens to unite and spend domestically instead.
'Now is the time to choose Canada ... It might mean changing your summer vacation plans to stay here in Canada and explore the many national and provincial parks, historical sites and tourist destinations our great country has to offer,' he said in an address to Canadian citizens.
According to the U.S. Travel Association, tariffs on Canada could impact Canadian visitation to and spending in the United States.
'Canada is the top source of international visitors to the United States, with 20.4 million visits in 2024, generating $20.5 billion in spending and supporting 140,000 American jobs,' reads a report on its website.
'A 10% reduction in Canadian travel could mean 2.0 million fewer visits, $2.1 billion in lost spending and 14,000 job losses.'
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