Full Breakdown
Increased Fees for International Visitors to U.S. National Parks in 2026
11/26/2025, 4:01:31 AM
New Pricing Structure for National Parks
Starting January 1, 2026, international visitors to 11 of the most popular U.S. national parks will face significant fee increases. The Department of the Interior (DOI) announced that non-residents without an annual pass will incur an additional $100 fee on top of the standard entrance fee. This new pricing structure affects national parks including Acadia, Bryce Canyon, Everglades, Glacier, Grand Canyon, Grand Teton, Rocky Mountain, Sequoia and Kings Canyon, Yellowstone, Yosemite, and Zion. For non-U.S. residents, the cost of an annual pass will rise to $250, while U.S. residents will continue to pay $80 for their annual passes.
Background and Context
The fee hikes are part of a broader initiative following an executive order issued by President Donald Trump on July 3, titled “Making America Beautiful Again by Improving Our National Parks.” This order directed the Secretary of the Interior to increase entry fees for international visitors, aiming to ensure that U.S. taxpayers maintain affordable access to national parks while requiring international visitors to contribute to the parks' upkeep.
Official Statements & Responses
Interior Secretary Doug Burgum stated, “These policies ensure that U.S. taxpayers, who already support the National Park System, continue to enjoy affordable access, while international visitors contribute their fair share to maintaining and improving our parks for future generations.” The DOI also emphasized that revenue generated from these fee increases would be reinvested into park upgrades and essential maintenance.
Criticism & Opposition
The fee increases have drawn criticism, particularly from international travelers and tourism advocates who argue that such hikes could deter foreign visitors, especially in light of a projected 8.2 percent decline in international visitation to the U.S. in 2025. Critics contend that the changes may negatively impact the tourism industry, which relies heavily on international visitors.
Changes to Fee-Free Days
In addition to the fee increases, the DOI announced that only U.S. residents will be eligible for free entry on designated "patriotic fee-free days" in 2026. These days include President's Day on February 16, Memorial Day on May 31, and Flag Day on June 14, among others. Previously, fee-free days allowed all visitors, regardless of residency, to enter national parks without charge.
What's Next
The DOI is also introducing a new digital version of the America the Beautiful Pass, which will feature updated designs that include images of Donald Trump and George Washington. This digital pass will allow for easier access and management for passholders. The changes are part of a larger strategy to enhance visitor experience while ensuring that funding for park maintenance and improvements is sustainable.
Verbatim Quotes
- “These policies ensure that U.S. taxpayers, who already support the National Park System, continue to enjoy affordable access, while international visitors contribute their fair share to maintaining and improving our parks for future generations,” — Doug Burgum, Secretary of the Interior
- “It’s going to get much more expensive for international travelers to visit some of America’s most popular national parks.” — DOI Announcement
The new pricing structure and policies reflect a significant shift in how national parks will be accessed by international visitors, with implications for both park funding and tourism dynamics in the United States.
