A Discover Pass will cost more Oct. 1, but you can access one for free with your library card

The Washington state Discover Pass will increase in price from $35 to $45 starting October 1, the first adjustment since its launch in 2011. This decision, approved by the Washington State Legislature, aims to help parks cope with inflation and improve service efficiency. To assist residents, Sno-Isle Libraries offers a free check-out option for library cardholders, allowing them to borrow Discover Passes for two weeks. Patrons can renew passes as long as there are no holds on them, promoting access to state parks. Disabled veterans will retain their free camping benefits but must note that any reservations made or modified after the price hike will incur processing fees.

The increase reflects ongoing financial pressures on state parks, which rely on pass sales for maintenance and programming. Additionally, the library's resources include a collection of relevant literature to help visitors plan their outdoor adventures. This initiative aims to balance funding needs while ensuring continued public access to Washington's natural spaces.