It turns out that ice climbing has become big business in New Hampshire. According to a new study conducted by Vermont State University, the sport contributes $6 million and 12,000 visitors annually to the Mount Washington Valley region.

Part of the impetus behind the study was to gather hard numbers on ice climbing’s economic impact that could be helpful in creating legislation that would make it safer for ice climbers to access their routes. Many of the popular routes are found along the Conway Scenic Railroad, which is often used by the climbers due to a lack of hiking trails and designated crossings. With the trains running more frequently in winter, this practice has become more dangerous.