Massachusetts Leads Nation in Outdoor Recreation Growth

A new report notes that Massachusetts now has the nation's fastest-growing outdoor recreation economy.

A U.S. Department of Commerce report containing 2024 data indicated that outdoor activities in the state contributed more than $14 billion to the economy and supported approximately 108,000 jobs.

Paul Jahnige, director of the Massachusetts Office of Outdoor Recreation at the Executive Office of Energy and Environmental Affairs, finds encouragement in these figures. He told GBH that the health benefits of outdoor recreation underpin a strategy to keep activities welcoming, inclusive, and accessible for residents and visitors alike.

Local initiatives and businesses, including Adventure East and the Malden program, report rising interest from first‑time outdoor participants who want to unplug and explore nearby regions around Boston and in Western Massachusetts. A central focus on inclusivity and accessibility is further driving this growth, targeting people historically left out and addressing health concerns linked to sedentary lifestyles.

DJ Josey's Malden Great Outdoors program is an example of this targeted approach to outdoor recreation. Josey's company specializes in creating outdoor equity programs for municipalities, offering low- to no-cost activities in eight languages to lower barriers for marginalized residents.

The Appalachian Mountain Club, Massachusetts's largest regional organization, prioritizes safe, accessible, and environmentally responsible recreation. Trails become a core focus for the club, along with more than 5,000 free activities available for participants.

Brian Pearson, the founder of Adventure East in Sunderland, said he's also witnessed an increase in interest from people who are new to the outdoors.

“I think it's principally people just wanting to disconnect and do something where they're not using technology, and I think nature is the obvious answer to that,” he told GBH. “I think there's now been a realization like, 'Hey, there's great stuff happening (in Western Massachusetts), and it's easier to get, too. It's closer to home. We can do it for a day trip.'“