The Science is Clear
Kids Need to Get Outdoors
At PORA’s 2026 Capitol press conference, Dr. Michael Spangler, VP of Medical Affairs at UPMC, put it directly: outdoor time for children is not a luxury. It is an intervention.
Children ages 8 to 12 now average more than five hours of entertainment screen time daily. Medical providers are seeing the results firsthand: rising rates of childhood anxiety, depression, sleep disruption, attention difficulties, and obesity.
The research points to a straightforward solution. Time outside.
That is why bipartisan members of the Pennsylvania legislature, the Pennsylvania Office of Outdoor Recreation, and medical professionals from UPMC stood together at the State Capitol to back the PA Outdoor Adventure Pass.
Outdoor time is not a luxury. It’s an intervention.
Dr. Michael Spangler, VP Medical Affairs, UPMC Central Region / UPMC Memorial
What Happens When a 4th or 5th Grader Gets Outside
This is the developmental window when interests take hold and lifelong habits form. What kids do at this age shapes how they see themselves and the world.
Ready to Get Your Child Active and Screen-Free?
The PA Outdoor Adventure Pass is the answer.
One pass. One year. Locations statewide spanning skiing, snowboarding, caves, climbing, water sports, farms, nature centers, zoos, adventure parks, mini-golf, and more. No app required. Just use your child’s name.
How it works:
- $69 per child, valid through August 2027
- Open to all 4th and 5th grade students
- One experience per participating locations
- New locations added all the time
- No app. No card. Just show up.
“Stop going on your iPad and get outside. It’s so much better. And it’s better for your brain.”
Quillam, Passholder, Age 11
Is the PA Outdoor Adventure Pass a good value for families?
Yes, the PA Outdoor Adventure Pass offers exceptional value by providing a full year of outdoor experiences for a one-time fee of $69. Since many individual lift tickets or adventure admissions cost more than $69, the pass typically pays for itself after just one visit. Families gain access to dozens of participating providers across Pennsylvania, making it one of the most cost-effective ways to explore the state’s outdoor recreation options.
How does the PA Outdoor Adventure Pass help families save money on activities?
The pass helps families save money by bundling one high-quality experience at every participating provider into a single annual membership. Instead of paying full price for separate outings like skiing, kayaking, or ziplining, 4th and 5th graders receive these adventures as part of the pass (often with a required adult admission). This structure allows families to plan multiple trips throughout the year without additional major expenses for the child’s entry.
Can I use the PA Outdoor Adventure Pass for spontaneous or last-minute trips?
Yes, the pass is designed for maximum flexibility, allowing for spontaneous adventures on any day of the week. Many participating providers welcome walk-ins, enabling families to turn a free afternoon into an outdoor excursion without weeks of advance planning. This flexibility makes it ideal for busy schedules, as families can choose to visit locations when crowds are smaller or when the weather is perfect for a specific activity.