Discover Pass sales dip after price increase

Sales of Washington's Discover Pass dropped 23% in October following a $15 price increase, while revenue rose 16% year-over-year. State Parks administrative services director Laura Holmes noted that despite the sales decline, revenue from annual passes remains on track with projections. This price hike, approved by lawmakers during the last legislative session, raised the annual pass cost from $30 to $45, the first increase since the pass system was established in 2011. The agency anticipates an average sales decline of 15% over the current two-year budget cycle, yet revenue remains crucial as it constitutes about three-quarters of Washington State Parks’ income. Holmes highlighted that pass sales surged in September prior to the price increase, leading to a temporary overachievement in sales projections.

The agency's operating budget is approximately $258 million, and it has been ahead of revenue expectations by about $1. 1 million for the budget biennium. Additionally, the agency announced that 12 days in 2026 will allow free access to state recreation lands without a Discover Pass, starting on New Year's Day. These changes reflect ongoing adjustments in the management of state park resources in Washington.