If you’re one of the 3.5 million people who visit the Custer Gallatin National Forest each year, you already know how incredible this part of Montana is. A series of new economic studies, commissioned by the Outdoor Alliance, measures the economic impact of outdoor recreation in the region. Researchers found that outdoor recreation in the Custer Gallatin National Forest generates $223.1 million in annual spending on paddling, climbing, hiking, snowsports, and mountain biking — while also supporting local jobs and attracting both businesses and residents to south central Montana.

Click on the picture to download a copy of the full report or click at right to see the report overview.