Utahns can save gas and find plenty to do for in-state vacations

More than two-thirds of the American population participates in outdoor activities, be it biking, camping or wildlife viewing.

Here in Utah participation is even higher.

According to the latest findings of the Outdoor Industry Foundations, because of the range of activities, the quality and the "exceptional close-to-home" recreational opportunities, Utah has one of the highest participation rates in the country.

All this outdoor activity also contributes substantially to Utah's economy. Numbers from the latest foundation study shows outdoor recreation:

• Contributes $5.8 billion annually to the Utah economy.

• Supports 65,000 jobs.

• Generates nearly $300 million in annual sales tax revenue.

• Produces nearly $4 billion annually in retail sales services.

Broken down by activities and participation numbers, the study found here in Utah:

• Bicycling — 409,425 participants (25 percent of the population), to include paved and off-road riding.

• Camping — 761,579 participants (46 percent of the population), to include RV, tent and rustic lodging.

• Fishing — 375,196 participants (21 percent of the population), to include fly fishing and spin-casting.

• Hunting — 173,991 participants (10 percent of the population), to include shotgun, rifle and archery.

• Paddling — 246,132 participants (15 percent of the population), to include kayaking, rafting and canoeing.

• Snow sports — 310,393 participants (19 percent of the population), to include downhill, snowboarding, cross country and snowshoeing.

• Trail — 714,023 participants (43 percent of the population), to include trail running, day hiking, backpacking and rock climbing.

• Wildlife viewing — 562,000 participants (32 percent of the population), to include watching birds and wildlife.