Discover Pass sales dip after price increase

Washington's Discover Pass sales experienced a 23% decline in October after a price hike from $30 to $45, yet revenue from the passes increased by 16% year-over-year. State Parks officials expected this drop in pass sales but maintain that the agency will see a financial benefit from the $15 increase. Laura Holmes, administrative services director, highlighted that September sales surpassed projections as many customers purchased passes before the price change. The agency anticipates an average 15% decrease in pass sales throughout the current two-year budget cycle, which runs through June 2027. State Parks' operating budget stands at about $258 million, and revenue is currently $1.

1 million above expectations. Despite nearly $15 million in budget cuts, officials assure that visitor access and services at state parks will remain largely unaffected. Discover Pass revenue supports not only State Parks but also the Department of Fish and Wildlife and the Department of Natural Resources. The state park system projects around 40 million annual visitors through 2025, reflecting a slight increase over the previous year.