Wisconsin Is Making It Even Easier to Explore Their State Parks

It's no big secret that hiking and exploring is definitely my family's thing. However, we don't seem to get into Wisconsin all that often. Our last trip there was through Governor Dodge State Park. That may all change soon with an update recently announced by the state's DNR. Starting December 2nd, 2024, the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources is switching to a 12-month admission pass model for the Wisconsin State Park System. Instead of expiring at the end of the calendar year, your pass will now be valid for 12 full months from the month you buy it—giving you a full year to explore Wisconsin’s stunning parks, forests, and trails.

What's New in Wisconsin?

The new system, introduced under 2023 Wisconsin Act 113, is designed to give you more flexibility. Here’s the scoop:

• Longer Validity: Buy your pass any time, and it’ll last for 12 months following the month of purchase. For example, a pass purchased in December 2024 won't expire on December 31st, 2025, but will be valid through January of 2026. From that point forward, passes are good for 12 months from month to month- buy it in March it will be good through the whole month of March the following year before you need to re-buy.
• New Look: The redesigned pass features months of the year around the edge and will be marked with your expiration month and year—no more surprises!
• Family-Friendly Options: Reduced-rate passes for additional vehicles registered to the same household are available and will share the same expiration date as the main pass.

This update lets you plan your adventures year-round, whether you're hiking in spring, kayaking in summer, or snowshoeing come winter.

So, How Much Will It Cost? Well, here’s the 2025 pricing for vehicle admission passes:

12-Month Passes:

• Wisconsin Residents: $28
• Out-of-State Vehicles: $38
• Senior Citizens (Wisconsin residents 65+): $13

Additional Vehicles:

• Wisconsin Plates: $15.50
• Out-of-State Plates: $20.50

Daily Passes:

• Wisconsin Plates: $13
• Out-of-State Plates: $16

Don’t Forget the State Trail Pass

For those who bike, cross-country ski, horseback ride, or inline skate on designated trails, a state trail pass is required. These are separate from vehicle admission passes and are valid for the calendar year—they’ll expire on December 31, 2025, no matter when purchased. Walking and hiking, however, don’t require a trail pass.

How to Get Your Pass

Save time by buying online! Once you purchase, you’ll get an email receipt with a confirmation number for immediate entry. Your physical pass will arrive pre-marked with its expiration date. Passes will also be available at park kiosks, drive-up windows, and DNR service centers.This new system is all about making it easier to enjoy the great outdoors. The flexibility of a 12-month pass allows visitors to explore parks throughout the year, no matter when they buy it.

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So, whether you’re hiking through forests, paddling along serene lakes, or picnicking under the (hopefully soon to be) summer sky, Wisconsin’s parks have something for everyone. With this new pass, you have a whole year to find your next favorite trail or discover a hidden gem. So, grab your boots, plan your routes, and get ready to blaze new trails. After all, life’s better on the trails—don’t leaf any stone unturned!