SPOKANE, Wash. — Washington State’s Park’s Discover Pass has increased their price their price to cost an additional $15 dollars.
The Discover Pass, which provides access to any Washington State Park’s and recreation areas, saw its first price increase in 15 years since it was implemented in 2011. The Legislature passed the increase last April, and Governor Ferguson signed it in May.
The additional $15 from each pass will fund park maintenance, including keeping trails and bathrooms clean across the state park system.
Sara Kennedy, a runner, expressed initial surprise at the increase but ultimately supports it.
“First, I was definitely shocked at, like a 50% increase. It’s definitely a lot. But I think our state parks are awesome, and I know that it’s worth it,” Kennedy said.
Kennedy, who moved to the area from Alaska six years ago, noted the pass remains a good value compared to other states.
“We actually moved down here from Alaska, six years ago. And the state park pass there was $50 back then. So I kind of feel like I’m still getting a deal,” Kennedy said.
According to the Washington State Parks website, roughly 71% of the state parks operating budget comes from these passes and earned revenue.
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