As an alternative to spending Black Friday in crowded stores with discount-hungry customers, Colorado Parks and Wildlife announced it will be offering free entry to all 43 Colorado state parks the day after Thanksgiving.

Marking the eighth annual Fresh Air Friday, the Nov. 29 event encourages people to spend some time outdoors during the Thanksgiving weekend and explore the state’s open spaces before the busy shopping season.

Find Colorado state parks near you and learn about activities available at each park by using the online State Park Finder (cpw.state.co.us/state-parks). Park visitors can also use the free Colorado Trail Explorer mobile app to discover local parks, trail systems and open spaces.

The National Weather Service’s winter storm warning — issued for much of the High Country and Western Slope — is only projected to last through Wednesday evening, meaning weather conditions are expected to be safer on Friday for those making the trip to mountainous state parks. 

Friday’s weather forecast promises a sunny but windy afternoon, with a high near 45 degrees.

Due to Nov. 29 being a state holiday, some park visitor centers and services may be limited. Enforcement personnel will be patrolling the parks to ensure the safety and enjoyment of all visitors.