The Golden Bear Pass, long a key to unlocking over 200 parklands across the state, is expanding its reach to include Lynch Canyon Open Space Park and the newly opened Patwino Worrtla Kodoi Dihi Open Space Park in Solano County. Originally published by California State Parks, this announcement marks a significant step in efforts to make nature more accessible to all.
The pass, which offers free day-use vehicle access, is available to Californians receiving benefits like Supplemental Security Income or cash aid from the California Work Opportunity and Responsibility to Kids program and those aged 62 and above who meet income eligibility requirements. Simply qualifying for this pass can also serve as a critical community connection, binding them back to the land and its manifold wonders.
Per the official statement, Armando Quintero, the Director of California State Parks, expressed gratitude for the collaboration that made this expansion possible. He emphasized the importance of accessibility, stating via California State Parks, "Increasing access to parks for everyone is essential for fostering community health and a love for the outdoors."
The move aligns with a larger state initiative, "Outdoors for All," and embodies Governor Gavin Newsom's vision for a universally accessible California. According to Natural Resources Secretary Wade Crowfoot, who was quoted in the California State Parks release, this initiative is "focused on providing all Californians with equitable access to the state’s cultural, historical and natural resources."
