DENVER — More than 1.5 million Colorado residents purchased a Keep Colorado Wild Pass in its second year, generating $41 million to support state parks, search and rescue teams and avalanche safety programs.

In Brief:

Keep Colorado Wild Pass raises $41M in its second year
Funds support state parks, rescue volunteers and CAIC
Revenue exceeds annual goal of $36M set by CPW
Pass offers affordable $29 entry to all state parks

Colorado Parks and Wildlife set an annual goal of $36 million in pass revenue. The first $32.5 million goes toward state park maintenance and development, $2.5 million supports local search and rescue volunteers and $1 million funds the Colorado Avalanche Information Center. Any additional revenue will be used for wildlife projects and outdoor education.

“We are proud to see so many Coloradans saving money by taking advantage of the low-cost Keep Colorado Wild Pass,” Gov. Jared Polis said. “With these passes, Coloradans are investing back into the lands they love while exploring all our great state has to offer.”

The $29 pass, launched in January 2023 through CPW and the Division of Motor Vehicles, is offered when residents register vehicles. The pass provides entry for cars, bikes and pedestrians at all state parks and is printed as a CPW logo on registration cards.

The program raised $39.7 million in its first fiscal year, which ended in June 2024. CPW officials said the second-year revenue increase provides meaningful new support for the agency and its partners.

Funds will be used to improve facilities at state parks, including boat docks, bathrooms, parking lots and picnic areas. CPW also plans to add ADA-accessible features across its park system.

Search and rescue teams will receive $2.5 million for training, mental health support and equipment. Counties will share an additional $1.5 million in grants to fund local projects over two years.

The Colorado Avalanche Information Center is using its share to expand staffing, add communications and technology roles, and upgrade forecasting platforms in partnership with Avalanche Canada. Officials said the improvements have enhanced the reach and quality of avalanche safety information for backcountry users, communities and rescuers.

Revenue from the pass also supports outdoor education programs in state parks and local communities.

“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 communities treasure,” CPW Director Jeff Davis said.

s