Paddlers gaining on campers, study says

About 141 million people -- nearly half of all Americans -- participated in at least one of 13 types of outdoor recreation last year, an industry group reports.

In the seven years since the Outdoor Industry Foundation started its study, the number of kayak paddlers has more than doubled and snowshoers increased by half, while the ranks of trail runners and canoe paddlers gained about 20%. But significantly fewer people camp and backpack because, as foundation spokesman Michael Lee says, Americans don’t have time for long trips.

Here’s a look at some outdoors activities and the portion of people participating:

* Bicycling, 39%

* Fishing, 36%

* Hiking, 34%

* Camping, 30%,

* Trail running, 18%

* Paddling, 14%

The participation levels are likely conservative estimates because only people 16 years or older were included in the study.

The nonprofit foundation, a research arm of the Outdoors Industry Assn. that represents 4,000 manufacturers, distributors and retailers of outdoor gear, released its findings last week.

Scott Doggett