DENVER, COLORADO — The first year of the Keep Colorado Wild Pass has far exceeded expectations, generating $39.7 million that will dramatically enhance funding for Colorado’s state parks, backcountry search and rescue teams, and avalanche safety programs. With over 1.5 million Coloradans opting to purchase the $29 pass when registering their vehicles, the initiative marks a game-changing moment for the state’s outdoor infrastructure and safety services.
Free: Complete Colorado 14ers Planner
Every peak. Every trailhead. Every detail: in one spreadsheet.
- All 58 peaks ranked beginner to expert
- Safety notes and seasonal windows for each
- Route difficulty, mileage, and prep tips
A Major Windfall for Colorado’s State Parks
Colorado Parks and Wildlife (CPW), in partnership with the Division of Motor Vehicles (DMV), launched the Keep Colorado Wild Pass in January 2023. At $29, the pass offers a 60% savings compared to the traditional $80 annual state park pass, providing access to all state parks for vehicles, cyclists, and pedestrians.
The revenue generated from the pass significantly surpassed CPW’s initial goal of $36 million, bringing in $39.7 million by the end of the fiscal year on June 30, 2024. Of this total, $32.5 million is allocated to maintaining and developing state parks—a substantial increase compared to previous years. Historically, funding for Colorado’s state parks has been stretched thin, limiting the ability to undertake large-scale improvements or expansions.
- Impact: The infusion of $32.5 million will allow CPW to undertake projects that were previously out of reach, including building new campsites, renovating visitor centers, expanding parking and picnic areas, and updating crucial infrastructure like signage and roadways. This funding surge is expected to significantly enhance the visitor experience and support the growing demand for outdoor recreation in Colorado.
Free: Complete Colorado 14ers Planner
Every peak. Every trailhead. Every detail: in one spreadsheet.
- All 58 peaks ranked beginner to expert
- Safety notes and seasonal windows for each
- Route difficulty, mileage, and prep tips
Unprecedented Support for Search and Rescue Teams
For Colorado’s backcountry search and rescue (BSAR) teams, the Keep Colorado Wild Pass represents a transformative source of funding. These teams respond to over 3,600 incidents annually, more than any other state, often with minimal financial support. Before this initiative, search and rescue operations relied heavily on donations and small, inconsistent state grants, leaving many volunteers to cover essential expenses out of their own pockets.
- Impact: The $2.5 million allocated to search and rescue efforts more than doubles the available state funding, providing a crucial lifeline for these teams. The funds will be used for essential training, mental health support, and equipment purchases, ensuring that rescuers are better prepared and equipped. Additionally, $1.5 million in grants will be distributed to counties for targeted projects, allowing for sustained and strategic improvements in search and rescue operations.
Free: Complete Colorado 14ers Planner
Every peak. Every trailhead. Every detail: in one spreadsheet.
- All 58 peaks ranked beginner to expert
- Safety notes and seasonal windows for each
- Route difficulty, mileage, and prep tips
A New Era for Avalanche Safety
The Colorado Avalanche Information Center (CAIC) will also benefit significantly from the Keep Colorado Wild Pass, receiving $1 million from the revenue. Before this, the CAIC operated on an annual budget of approximately $1.5 million, which limited its ability to expand programs and retain top talent.
- Impact: With nearly double its usual funding, the CAIC has already launched a new, more detailed website, developed avalanche-awareness materials in Spanish, and converted temporary jobs to permanent positions. These enhancements are critical for improving public safety and ensuring that the CAIC can continue to attract and retain the best forecasters in the field, thereby reducing avalanche-related incidents and fatalities.
Free: Complete Colorado 14ers Planner
Every peak. Every trailhead. Every detail: in one spreadsheet.
- All 58 peaks ranked beginner to expert
- Safety notes and seasonal windows for each
- Route difficulty, mileage, and prep tips
A Game-Changer for Colorado’s Outdoors
The Keep Colorado Wild Pass is more than just a cost-saving measure for residents—it’s a transformative initiative that is reshaping the future of Colorado’s outdoor spaces and safety programs. The pass not only provides an affordable way to explore the state’s parks but also ensures that the essential services and infrastructure supporting these areas are adequately funded.
CPW Deputy Director Heather Disney Dugan emphasized the significance of this funding, stating, “Whether you use the pass to visit state parks or to show support for our outdoor first responders and avalanche forecasters, your contribution plays an integral role in giving back to the outdoor spaces and programs our local communities treasure.”
For more information on the Keep Colorado Wild Pass, visit CPW’s website.
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