Wyoming Outdoor Economy Struggles Despite Big GDP Role – Study highlights economic challenges for Wyoming and Montana businesses

Wyoming’s outdoor recreation economy faces major hurdles despite its sizable role in the state’s GDP.

A new report by the WORTH Institute and Founded Outdoors offers the first comprehensive look at this sector’s economic challenges. It highlights persistent issues in hiring, climate impacts, and marketing that affect local businesses across Wyoming’s 18 counties.

The Outdoor Business Needs Assessment and Opportunities 2026 surveyed over 100 outdoor business owners, including long-standing firms like Atmosphere Mountainworks in Laramie and newer ventures such as 307 Llama Company in Encampment. Outdoor recreation contributes 5.5 percent of Wyoming’s wages and employs roughly 16,500 people—about 2.8 percent of the population. Yet, many businesses report insufficient practical support despite the state’s favorable tax environment. Owners express concern about limited industry infrastructure and the difficulty of sustaining operations amid evolving market and environmental conditions.

The WORTH Institute intends to distribute the report to organizations capable of fostering solutions for these outdoor enterprises.

Montana’s outdoor economy might face similar structural challenges given its shared Mountain West geography and reliance on public lands. Montana businesses might also encounter comparable hiring and climate-related pressures, suggesting the Wyoming study could inform regional economic strategies.

Outdoor recreation study highlights economic challenges for Wyoming businesses
By Calla Shosh, WyoFile