DEVELOPMENT OF SKI TOURING AND USE OF TOURISM RESOURCES AS A PROMISING DIRECTION OF ACTIVE TOURISM IN UKRAINE
Abstract
Ski touring is a promising and innovative form of active tourism that combines physical activity, adventure, and environmental interaction in mountain regions. It integrates recreational skiing, hiking, and exploration of natural landscapes beyond traditional ski resorts. In Ukraine, ski touring is an emerging niche of the tourism industry, particularly in the Carpathian region, which possesses rich natural, infrastructural, and cultural resources for sustainable mountain tourism. The study analyzes the current state of ski touring development in Ukraine, focusing on opportunities and challenges of its growth. Special attention is given to the evaluation of tourism resources, including natural landscapes, snow coverage, accommodation, certified guides, and safety services. A SWOT analysis identifies key strengths such as significant natural potential, growing interest in adventure tourism, and an existing infrastructure network. Weaknesses include a lack of marked routes, limited training and certification, insufficient funding, and weak safety systems. Opportunities involve integration into sustainable tourism strategies, cross-border cooperation, digitalization of navigation and monitoring, and community-based tourism development. Major threats include climate change, unstable snow conditions, avalanche risks, competition from established destinations, and environmental pressures. Based on the analysis, strategic recommendations are proposed to improve infrastructure, safety, staff training, and sustainable resource management. Implementation of these measures will increase the Carpathians’ attractiveness for domestic and foreign tourists, strengthen local economies, and contribute to the sustainable development of mountain tourism in Ukraine. The study emphasizes the importance of planning, innovation, and policy support in promoting ski touring as an environmentally responsible and economically viable form of active tourism.
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