PORT ANGELES — As part of National Park Week, Olympic National Park will waive admission fees for nine days, from this coming Saturday, April 17, through Sunday, April 25.
“We are rolling out the red carpet and inviting everyone to visit a national park,” Secretary of the Interior Ken Salazar said in a statement.
“Parks are fun and affordable . . . places to engage in healthy, outdoor activities, whether for a few hours or a few days.”.
Of the 392 national parks, Olympic and 145 other parks charge entrance fees ranging from $3 to $25. The other 246 do not charge for admission.
The fee free waiver for National Park Week does not include other fees collected in advance or by contractors — such as charges for camping, reservations and use of concessions.
Those who plan to spend time in the park beyond April 25 must pay the regular entrance fee for the remainder of their stay.
During National Park Week, visitors are encouraged to watch for special offers on tours, food and souvenirs provided by Olympic National Park concessioners.
One of the concessioners, Aramark Parks and Destinations, is offering a buy-one-get-one free deal on lodging in the park.
Visitors can book one night, starting at $157, at any of three properties and get a second consecutive night free.
The promotion includes stays at Sol Duc Hot Springs Resort and Kalaloch Lodge from Saturday to April 25 and stays at Lake Crescent Lodge May 7 to 31.
Guests must book stays for Lake Crescent Lodge by April 25.
To make reservations, call 866-761-6262 or go to http://tinyurl.com/FeeFreeDays.
Also, as part of the celebration, Saturday, April 24, has been named National Junior Ranger Day.
Each child participating in Junior Ranger activities will receive a certificate, patch or pin.
Other National Park Week highlights include the 40th anniversary of Earth Day on Thursday, April 22.
In addition, park entrance stations will have Inter-agency Senior and Annual Passes available for those who wish to purchase them.
For more information, contact the Olympic National Park Visitor Center 3002 Mount Angeles Road, 360-452-0330. It is open from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
