Getting Started
Who can get a PA Outdoor Adventure Pass?
The pass is designed for 4th and 5th grade students (typically ages 9-11). You’ll need to verify your child’s current grade level during purchase by uploading a recent report card or school enrollment document. Anyone can purchase – Pennsylvania residents and out-of-state families are all welcome to own their adventure year!
What do I need to upload during purchase?
You’ll upload a clear, passport-style photo of your 4th/5th grader and yourself as the purchaser (we use these for verification at providers), plus documentation showing your child’s current grade level. Think clear, face-forward photos where we can easily see both of you!
How much does it cost and is it refundable?
The pass costs $69 for a full adventure year (September 1 – August 31). All sales are final – no refunds, no transfers. But here’s the thing: many single provider experiences will cost you more than $69, so you’re already ahead after your first adventure. Choose your adventure year with confidence!
When does my pass expire?
Every pass runs from September 1 through August 31, regardless of when you purchase. Buy in March? You get adventures through August 31 of that same school year. Buy early and seize more adventure opportunities throughout the year. Bonus: Every new provider that joins the program during your pass year is automatically available to you at no additional cost – your adventure options keep growing!
Using Your Pass
How do I use my pass at providers?
Simply show up and give your family name at participating locations. Staff will pull up your pass in the system, verify your photos match your family, and confirm your offer is available and unused. That’s it – time to adventure! Most locations welcome walk-ins, though some experiences may require advance reservations. Please check individual provider listings for specific booking requirements and availability details.
Can I use my pass more than once at the same provider?
Each provider listing offers one amazing experience per pass. Once you’ve redeemed at a location listing, that offer is complete. But with so many participating experiences across Pennsylvania, you’ll have plenty of adventures to choose from all year long.
Do adults need to pay admission?
Most providers require adult admission purchase while including your 4th/5th grader’s experience with the pass. Each provider sets their own offer, so you’ll see the specific details on their listing. The variety is part of what makes each adventure unique!
What about blackout dates?
Each provider may have different blackout dates (busy holidays, special events, etc.). These are clearly displayed on each provider’s listing so you can plan accordingly. With 100+ options, you’ll always find adventures available when you’re ready to explore.
Can grandparents or other family members take a child on adventures using the pass?
Absolutely! Any responsible adult can accompany a 4th/5th grader using the pass. Grandparent adventures, aunt and uncle expeditions, family friend outings – as long as the pass holder child is present, you’re good to go.
Planning Your Adventures
How do I find providers and plan trips?
Use our interactive map and search tools to explore by region, activity type, or season. You can filter for different options, plan weekend road trips to new areas, or find adventures close to home. The planning possibilities are as endless as your sense of adventure!
What happens when new providers join during my pass year?
This is one of the best parts! Every new provider that joins the program becomes available to you automatically at no extra cost. Whether they join in month 2 or month 10, your pass gives you access. Your adventure options keep expanding all year long.
Will we actually get our money’s worth?
You have a full year and 100+ options – absolutely! Many single experiences cost more than $69, so you’re ahead after one adventure. But why stop there? This is about seizing a year of exploration, trying new things, and traveling to parts of Pennsylvania you’ve never experienced. The value isn’t just financial – it’s about owning your adventure year.
What if we live far from most providers?
Pennsylvania is big, and that’s the exciting part! Use your pass as motivation to explore new regions – let your child help plan a weekend trip to an area you’ve never visited. Make it part of the adventure to discover what’s out there.
When Things Don’t Go As Planned
What if there’s a technology problem when I arrive?
Being in the outdoors is an adventure, and sometimes technology is too! Just like hiking a trail and finding a fallen tree that makes us rework our route, you might arrive at a provider experiencing their own “fallen tree” moment. They’re working as hard as they can to resolve issues. This is a perfect teaching moment for your child about flexibility, patience, and coming up with new plans. Remember – you invested $69 in a year of fun, not stress. Stay gracious, stay patient, and make it part of the adventure story.
What if a provider doesn’t honor my pass?
First, double-check that you’re within their operating seasons and outside any blackout dates listed on their page. If there’s still confusion, approach it as another adventure lesson – sometimes plans change, and that’s okay! Use it as a teaching moment about patience and flexibility. Maybe it’s time to explore a different provider or come back another day. The spirit of adventure means rolling with the unexpected!
Can I get help planning my adventures?
While we can’t plan your specific trips, our website tools make it easy to filter and explore options. Check out our “Adventure Collections” for pre-curated activity groupings, use the map to plan regional trips, and read provider descriptions to find what excites your family most. The best adventures are the ones you choose yourself!
PURCHASE PROCESS
What happens after I click Buy Now?
Create your account using your own adult information, then select the pass product and click checkout. Easy!
How do I assign the child’s name to the pass?
After you click “Checkout”, you’ll “assign a guest” to the product – that’s where you create your child’s profile. Use your email and phone, but make sure to use your child’s actual birthday.
When do I assign the waiver?
The waiver comes up during checkout before you complete your purchase. One quick signature and you’re almost done!
Do I have to upload anything during the purchase process?
After you enter your credit card information you’ll be prompted to upload two things: a photo of your child for their pass, and verification of their current grade level.
What documents can I upload for grade verification?
Options include: School report card showing current grade, school enrollment letter, or any official school document with student name and grade level.
Any upload tips?
Keep it simple! A clear photo showing your child’s name and current grade is all we need. Make it easy for us to quickly verify and approve.
How long does verification take?
Most verifications are approved within 1-3 business days.
Should I upload everything at once?
Yes! It’s easiest to complete everything while you’re thinking about it. Who wants another item on their to-do list anyway?
Can I use my pass right away?
Your pass becomes active after we verify your uploaded documents – usually within 1-3 business days. Plan ahead for the smoothest adventure experience!