California is home to some of the most beautiful national parks in the country, from the majesty of Yosemite to the mystifying beauty of Joshua Tree and everything in between.
In total, California is home to more than 270 state parks and nine national parks. That’s more than any other state. With 340 miles of coastline, 970 miles of lakes and rivers, and 4,500 miles of trails, there’s plenty to see and do in the Golden State.
Despite the widespread availability of these outdoor spots, accessibility is a whole other story, especially for people of color. According to American Progress Centerpeople of color are three times more likely to live in an area “deprived of nature” than their white counterparts.
This grim stat is a major motivating force behind California Outdoor access for all Initiative. The initiative was created to encourage Californians of all backgrounds to explore the outdoors through the creation of its California State Library Park Pass program.
The pass offers free entry for a passenger vehicle, with nine people or fewer, or, if motorbikes are more your style, you can take this route as well. I wouldn’t try to squeeze nine people to one, though.
To get a pass, you will need to visit your local library. From there, just choose how many days you want to use the pass for one ride, then check it out, just like you would a book. So if you don’t have a library card yet, you’ll need to get one. While you’re at it, might as well grab a book to read for the trip ahead.
The pass is not valid for entrance fees per person, museum tickets, use of the boat, camping reservations or special events. But hey, it will save you at least $35.
It seems that the initiative turned out to be a success. According to California State Library.
