Check Out Washington 2021

Where can you use Check Out Washington Discover Pass? The Pass is good on all Washington Recreation Lands. Washington State Department of Natural Resources DNR seeks to provide outdoor recreation opportunities to the public throughout Washington state. The agency provides trailheads, day-use areas and campgrounds in a primitive, natural setting. Most recreation on these lands takes place in the 2.2 million acres of forests that DNR manages as state trust lands. DNR manages 1,100 miles of trails, 160 recreation sites, and a wide variety of landscapes across the state. For a list of DNR recreation lands, click here. Washington State Parks The Washington State Parks and Recreation Commission manages a diverse system of more than 100 state parks and recreation programs, including long-distance trails, boating safety and winter recreation. State Parks also offers overnight accommodations, including cabins, yurts and vacation houses, at several state parks. For a list of State Parks, click here. Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife The mission of WDFW is to preserve, protect and perpetuate fish, wildlife and ecosystems while providing sustainable fish and wildlife recreational and commercial opportunities. WDFW manages recreation land for visitors to enjoy a variety of activities, including fishing, boating, hunting, wildlife viewing, hiking, camping and many others. For currently open WDFW recreation locations, click here. Source: Washington Recreation Lands - Discover Pass Official Website

Check Out Washington - Discover Pass Check out Washington's great outdoors! A program called "Check Out Washington" makes a limited-edition Discover Pass available to library card holders. The Discover Pass allows borrowers access to millions of acres of state parks and other state public lands. Check Out Washington is offered by Washington State Parks in partnership with the Washington State Library, the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife, and Department of Natural Resources. Passes are held at the front desk and must be returned to the front desk (please do NOT put these in the bookdrop). Checkout is for 1 week. Place a Check Out Washington pass on hold. For more information on the Check Out Washington program and participating libraries, click here. For more information about where the pass can be used, click here.

Before You Go!

• Research the trail.

Call ahead to a Park Ranger, DNR office, or WDFD office and check their websites for current conditions, closures, restrictions, information about hazards, etc.

• Prepare a trip plan.

Include all the names of people going, start time and location, planned route, and estimated finish time. Leave this information with a trusted friend or family member who isn't going with you, in case you don't return when expected. In some cases, you can also leave this information with park rangers.

• Use the Buddy System.

Don't hike alone. Make it a group activity so someone can go for help if an emergency arises.

• Dress for success and be prepared for weather changes.

Wear moisture-wicking clothing and good hiking boots with good quality wool socks. Dress in layers, wear sun-protective clothing, and be ready for rain!

• Carry the essentials - and know how to use them!

• First aid kit and emergency whistle
• Navigation tools - map, compass, GPS
• Sunscreen, bug spray, and protective clothing
• Extra layers - jacket, coat, raincoat
• Light - flashlights, flares, headlamp
• Extra food and water - water purification tablets or kit, if possible
• Repair kit - duct tape, multi-tool, pocketknife, etc.
• Shelter - tent, emergency space blanket, etc.

• Bring plenty of water and snacks

We can't stress that enough!

• Know your limits and when to go back

It can be really easy to overdo it, especially if you've got an end goal in mind. But it's important to stay tuned to your body and know when to stop, when to rest, and when to turn around and go back.

• Leave no trace! Washington State is beautiful - preserve that beauty for all to enjoy.

• If you packed it in, pack it out.
• Leave what you find where you found it. Don't remove artifacts or disturb habitats by moving rocks, cutting trees, etc.
• Don't build structures.
• Respect wildlife. Don't feed wild animals and control your pets.
• Be courteous to others.

• Have fun!

Sources:

• Ten Tips for Safe Hiking: How to Prepare for a Day Hike
• 14 Essential Hiking Safety Tips You Should Always Follow
• Washington Trail Association - Practice Leave No Trace