New Federal Interagency Pass Available

Date: March 28, 2007
Contact: Lynne Brougher, 509 633-9441, extension 130

The summer vacation season is just around the corner.  Are you planning to visit several National Parks this year such as Yellowstone, Glacier or the Grand Canyon?  On the other hand, maybe you are thinking of visiting National Wildlife Refuges or Forest Service areas.  If you are planning to visit several federal areas that charge an entrance fee, the America the Beautiful National Parks and Federal Recreation Pass is for you.  While access to many public lands is free, others charge an entrance or standard amenity fee. 

The America the Beautiful Pass covers recreation opportunities at National Park Service, US Fish and Wildlife, Bureau of Land Management, Bureau of Reclamation, and US Forest Service Areas.  The Pass is valid for one year, beginning from the date of sale.  The pass admits the holder/s and passengers in a non-commercial vehicle at areas that charge per vehicle.  At areas that charge per person, the pass admits the pass holder +3 adults, not to exceed 4 adults (children under 16 are admitted free).  Passes are available at any one of three locations at Lake Roosevelt including the Headquarters Office at Coulee Dam, the South District Office at Fort Spokane and the North District Office at Kettle Falls. 

The cost of the America the Beautiful pass is $80.  Considering that some parks charge up to $25 for entrance fees, these passes offer a cost-effective and easy option for those who plan to visit multiple federal recreation sites.

While the passes are good for entrance fees, expanded amenity fees such as camping and boat launching are not covered.  The America the Beautiful Pass does not replace the Lake Roosevelt Boat Launch Permit.

Lake Roosevelt is also offering the new Senior Pass, which replaces the Golden Age Passport.  The Senior Pass, costing $10, is a lifetime pass for U.S. citizens or permanent residents age 62 or over.  In addition to the benefits of the America the Beautiful pass, it also provides a 50% discount on expanded amenity fees for camping and boat launches.  Passes must be obtained in person. 

The new Access Pass, which replaces the Golden Access Passport, is also available at Lake Roosevelt.  This is a free lifetime pass for U.S. citizens or permanent residents with permanent disabilities.  Documentation of disability is required to obtain the pass, which provides the same benefits as the Senior Pass. The Golden Age and Access Passports will remain valid for entrance fees and discounts on expanded amenities.

For more information, please contact the park at [phone] ext.130, Monday – Friday, except holidays, from 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. or visit the park website