May 14

May 14 What Pass Do I Use For this Hike?

My last write up was about parking at trailheads using the Forest Pass, and paying attention to other signs. I failed to bring up the State Parks Discover Pass.

It is important to understand when to use the Forest Pass and when to use the Discover Pass. When hiking in:

Washington State Parks - use Discover Pass

National Forest - use Forest Pass

Department of National Resources - no pass required unless otherwise marked

This is a basic list and there are some other variables. My concept is, if you enjoy the wilderness, then buy a year pass for both Discover and Forest. You will always have the right one! Or get the upgraded Forest Pass; Interagency Pass. Note: the interagency still does not take place of the Discover Pass.

If you don't get out on hikes very often, then consider a day pass. Here are the links to find out all of the specifics.

Here is the limosuine option in place of just a Forest Pass - the Interagency Pass: http://www.fs.fed.us/passespermits/annual.shtml

Here is the website for the Discover Pass: http://discoverpass.wa.gov

The US Forest Service has all of their information here: http://www.fs.usda.gov/detail/r6/passes-permits/recreation/?cid=fsbdev2_027010

WTA did a very good job in a Q & A type article found here: http://www.wta.org/hiking-info/passes/what-pass-do-i-need-faq

By Rudy Giecek