NY's Empire Parks Pass On Sale, No Longer A Decal

The New York State Parks Department announced Tuesday that it is offering a sale on the 2018 annual Empire Pass Card, which is replacing the Empire Pass Decal. Currently available online only, the 2018 Empire Pass Card is how residents can enjoy the more than 250 individual state parks, historic sites, recreational trails, boat launches and more throughout New York.

The Empire Pass Card is a wallet-sized plastic card that can be shared among family members. It is presented upon vehicle entry and includes QR code and embedded chip technology to allow for easier park access at select facilities.

From now through March 31, 2018, the card is on sale for $65. After the sale, the card will be available for its regular price of $80.

Those who are looking to give the Empire Pass Card as a gift should order by Friday, Dec. 8 to ensure delivery in time for the holidays.

The former Empire Pass decal, which was not shareable and required attachment to one vehicle, will no longer be offered. All 2017 Empire Pass decals will be accepted through their expiration on March 31, 2018.

The Empire Pass Card provides unlimited day-use vehicle entry to state parks, Department of Environmental Conservation forest preserves, boat launch sites, arboretums and park preserves.

While the annual card is on sale for $65, residents can also purchase multi-year cards. A three-year Empire Pass is $205, the five-year is $320, and a lifetime pass is $750. The lifetime pass isn't a separate card, but an icon that is placed on your driver's license or state ID.

All products can be purchased online at www.parks.ny.gov. The 2018 Empire Pass Card is available online only and will be available inside the parks in January.

Photo: New York State Park's Department