International Travelers Brace for $100 Hike in National Park Fees: What You Need to Know!

The National Park Service recently announced a new fee for international visitors to U.S. national parks. Starting January 1, foreign tourists will pay an extra $100 to enter popular sites like the Grand Canyon and Yellowstone. In addition, an annual parks pass for foreigners will rise to $250, while U.S. residents will still pay $80.

This move follows significant budget cuts and staffing issues, partly due to a recent government shutdown. “America-first entry fee policies” aim to ensure that U.S. taxpayers continue to enjoy affordable access to these parks, according to Interior Secretary Doug Burgum. He stated that the changes help ensure international visitors contribute their fair share to maintaining these cherished spaces.

In past years, international visitors made up a sizable portion of park-goers. For example, in 2018, over 14 million international tourists visited national parks. However, this number has decreased in recent years. In 2024, only about 15% of Yellowstone’s visitors were from outside the U.S., down from 30% six years prior, indicating shifting travel patterns.

Critics of the fee changes, like Kati Schmidt from the National Parks Conservation Association, are raising questions about the implementation of these policies. Many wonder how this might affect tourism and access to national parks for all visitors.

The revenue generated from these new fees is intended to support park infrastructure, including facility upgrades and maintenance. Moreover, the Department of the Interior is emphasizing “resident-only patriotic fee-free days” to ensure that local communities can still access and enjoy public lands. This program highlights the importance of maintaining equity in access to natural spaces for everyone.

As parks evolve, it’s crucial to find a balance between funding needs and accessibility. Shifts like these could change the landscape of who enjoys America’s great outdoors and how it is funded in the future. For further reading on the impact of tourism on national parks, check out the National Park Service’s release on [park tourism trends](https://www.nps.gov).

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