Kathrine Frich
The Trump administration has unveiled what agencies describe as the largest fee increase in park history, and it applies only to foreign visitors.
For years, America’s national parks have attracted millions from abroad, drawn by wide open landscapes and famous landmarks.
But a sweeping change set to begin next year will make those visits significantly more costly for anyone who is not a US resident.
New pricing plan
According to AFP and News.ro, officials announced that beginning January 1, 2026, the annual pass granting access to all national parks will rise from $80 to $250 for non-residents.
The Department of the Interior, which oversees the system, said the measure is part of an effort to give “priority to Americans.”
Foreign tourists without an annual pass will face another major change.
An additional $100 fee will be added to entry tickets for the most visited parks, including the Grand Canyon, Yellowstone and Yosemite. Until now, residents and non-residents paid identical rates.
The United States has 63 national parks, considered some of the country’s greatest natural treasures. Official figures show that around 332 million people visited them in 2024.
Justifying the increases
Parks Secretary Doug Burgum said the new structure is intended to support the maintenance of protected areas while preserving access for Americans.
“US residents will continue to enjoy affordable rates, while non-residents will pay a higher rate to help support the upkeep and maintenance of America’s parks,” he stated.
He added that “President Trump’s leadership has always put American families first.”
The administration has argued that overcrowding has grown in recent years, and that the revised fees will help manage demand during peak seasons.
Perks for residents
To encourage domestic tourism, the Department of the Interior also announced the introduction of “patriotic days,” during which US residents will be able to enter national parks for free.
These days will include President’s Day, Veterans Day and Trump’s birthday, which falls on the annual Flag Day celebration.
Authorities did not indicate whether additional dates may be added in the future, but said the aim is to strengthen national engagement with public lands.
