The Newly Designed Outdoor Recreation Pass is Now Here!

After months of research, collaboration, and strategizing, we are excited at long last to share a refreshed approach to one of the most loved - but underutilized - benefits of the Ascend WV experience: the year of free access to outdoor recreation across the state. 

While this perk has always been one of the program’s highlights, we also know it has not always been easy to take full advantage of the pass. In fact, fewer than 10% of recreation passes issued in previous years were ever activated. We have heard your feedback, looked at the data, and reimagined the Recreation Pass to give you even more opportunities to adventure around West Virginia. 

Introducing the new and improved: Discovery Pass! Check out the improvements we have implemented based on your feedback: 

• You asked for more time to explore. Instead of squeezing all your adventures into one year, members now have two full years of free access to the Discovery Pass events. Events will be scheduled throughout the year; if a scheduled trip does not work for you this year, you are eligible to attend next year! *Please note: you are only eligible to attend each specific adventure once at no charge, after that you are welcome to attend the same event the following year at your own cost.  
  

• You asked for more adventures closer to home. We have strategically planned the adventures in the Discovery Pass to include experiences throughout the state, focusing on activities that are easy to access from Ascend regions. With two years of access, we expect you will be able to participate in even more adventures per season than passholders were able to do in the past.  
  

• You shared that scheduling experiences in the former system was cumbersome. In the new Discovery Pass, we handle the logistics, building out a full two years of curated experiences across the state that you can join. No more having to explain yourself to front desk staff or calling ahead to reserve. Just RSVP for Discovery Pass events like you would for other Ascend events and show up ready for adventure. 
  

• You asked for group adventures. Many have expressed hesitations at trying new outdoor experiences on their own; so, we’ve built group experiences around every adventure. This makes the outdoors even more accessible to all, while helping you strengthen your network with program members across the state. 
  

• You asked for statewide networking. All events are open to all program members, no matter your location or how long you’ve been in the program. For active Discovery Pass holders, the recreation experience cost will be covered. For those who are household members, friends, already have received Passes that are now expired or are Alumni, you are also welcome to join at our (often discounted) group rate. The redesigned Discovery Pass will include seasonal, curated experiences that make it easier than ever to get outside and connect with others in the program. Each season, we’ll host unique events with their own branding and collectible pins, designed to foster community, encourage first-timers, and reward exploration. 

Who's Eligible?

• In-Term Members: Free access for the entire two years of your participation in the program for those who have not received a previous recreation pass.  

• Alumni & Previously Issued Pass Holders: You’re welcome to join at your own cost or redeem a voucher from a Digital Recreation Pass if still valid. 

• Friends & Family Members: Welcome to join at your own cost, as capacity allows. 
  

We are excited for you to try something new, build deeper connections, and discover more of West Virginia - without the barriers that got in the way before. Here’s to more adventure, together. 

Explore the Discovery Pass

FAQS

Do I need anything to participate?

No. Your Discovery Pass is activated after your setup meeting, and your card is just a reminder of your start date.

What about the State Park Stay, Sportsman’s License, and Golf Pass?

We’ve streamlined the benefit to focus entirely on curated, year-round group experiences — giving you more variety, flexibility, and opportunities to connect with fellow Ascenders all over the state.

How do I sign up for events?

Easy! Just click the registration link on the event listing (same as our regular events). Some adventures may direct you to a partner’s site for quick sign-up or guest registration. Passholders will receive promo codes so your spot is covered.

How do I claim my pass?

Your Discovery Pass is automatically issued as soon as you arrive in West Virginia and complete your setup meeting — no extra forms or waiting required.

Can I bring guests to events?

Yes! Friends and family are welcome to join you at our group rate, as space allows. It’s a great way to share your Ascend experience with others.

Can I attend events in other Ascend regions?

Absolutely! Your pass gives you access to adventures in any Ascend location, so you can explore the entire state during your two years.

What happens if I miss an event this season?

No worries — you’ll have two full years to participate. If something doesn’t work with your schedule this year, you can plan ahead and join the same activity next year.

How do I see Discovery Pass events?

We’ve made it simple! You’ll have access to a special Discovery Pass events calendar with all eligible adventures in one place. This makes it easy to plan ahead, see what’s coming up in every season, and even explore events in other Ascend regions. Just click the link, browse the options, and RSVP for the ones that excite you. 

What happened to the “All-Location Events”?

They’re still here — just with a fresh name and format! All-Location Events are now part of the Discovery Pass, meaning you’ll see them right alongside your local adventures in the special calendar. You can still join events anywhere in the state, but now they’re integrated into a full, two-year lineup with seasonal themes and collectible buttons.