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Discover Pass fees to increase later this year

Bellingham, WALocal News

Governor Bob Ferguson signed a law that raises the Discover Pass fee from $30 to $45, starting October 1, 2025. This marks the first increase since the pass was introduced in 2011, according to Washington State Parks. The new law allows the Lifetime Veterans’ Disability Pass to serve as a substitute for the Discover Pass, enhancing accessibility for veterans. However, it removes the previous exemption that waived reservation fees for veterans with the disability pass. In Whatcom County, parks like Birch Bay, Larrabee, and Peace Arch require a Discover Pass for entry, impacting local visitors.

The $15 hike reflects a necessary adjustment to support state park funding and maintenance. The law aims to balance accessibility for veterans while ensuring sustainable park operations. Overall, park officials anticipate the increase will bolster resources for improving visitor experiences.

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