WA State Parks Free On Sunday For Birthday Celebration

SEATTLE, WA - Washington State Parks is turning 104 years old on Sunday - we assume it's lived that long because it does a lot of hiking - and so admission to all parks across the state will be free.

And a bonus: according to the current forecast, Sunday is actually supposed to be sunny and warm. So, it's a great day to have a picnic by the roaring White River at Federation Forest State Park, or take the kids to see the namesake of Flaming Geyser State Park, or catch a glimpse of some migrating orcas at Saltwater State Park.

Usually, you need a Discover Pass to get into state parks. Sunday's free-entry day is one of 12 happening in 2017.

“I hope these free days will inspire people to get outdoors and explore some of Washington’s most scenic and iconic places,” State Parks Commission Chair Mark Brown said in a press release. “With state parks located in such diverse landscapes—deserts, prairies, forests, rivers, lakes and the seashore—there’s something to draw out the adventurer in nearly everyone.”

If you can't make it out Sunday, buy a Discover Pass and go on your own time - or wait for one of the next free-entry days:

• April 15 (Saturday) — Springtime free day
• April 22 (Saturday) — Earth Day
• June 3 (Saturday) — National Trails Day
• June 10 (Saturday) — National Get Outdoors Day
• Aug. 25 (Friday) — National Park Service 101st Birthday
• Sept. 30 (Saturday) — National Public Lands Day
• Nov. 11 (Saturday) — Veterans Day
• Nov. 24 (Friday) — Autumn free day

Image via Washington State Parks and Recreation Commission