Fees suspended at Oregon and Washington state parks on New Year’s Day - Oregon Public Broadcasting
Hikers go on a first day of the year adventure at Cottonwood Canyon. Courtesy: Oregon State Parks Department The Oregon State Parks Department is suspending fees on New Year's Day as a way to get more people to visit. Washington, where a parking pass is typically required to drive into any state park, is also suspending fees as part of that state's First Day Hikes program. THANKS TO OUR SPONSOR: Oregon has about 250 parks; admission to most is free, but 25 charge parking fees for drivers. Those fees are being dropped for the day, and rangers will lead educational adventures. For example, people can join a two-mile hike at L. L. Stub Stewart State Park, south of Vernonia. Boomscooter Trail is renowned for wildlife viewing or just enjoying the outdoors. Oregon parks department spokesman Jason Resch said he's headed to Tryon State Park on Jan. 1. He sees getting outdoors as somewhat spiritual. "It's a first-day adventure. Or maybe a New Year's resolution," sa