The United States is set to implement a significant increase in fees for international visitors to its famous national parks starting next year. This move by the Trump administration marks a major policy shift as it aims to prioritise American families amid ongoing challenges faced by the National Park Service.
Substantial Fee Hikes for Foreign Tourists
According to an announcement made by the Interior Department on Tuesday, beginning January 1, the cost of an annual park pass for non-residents will see a dramatic jump. The price will be more than tripled, soaring from the current $80 to $250. For international tourists who do not purchase an annual pass, an additional $100 fee will be imposed on top of the standard entrance cost at 11 of the most frequented national parks.
This new surcharge will apply to iconic destinations including Yosemite, Yellowstone, Rocky Mountain, and the Grand Canyon. It is important to note that foreigners who are legal residents of the United States will be exempt from these new charges.
Context of the Policy Change
Interior Secretary Doug Burgum, in an official statement reported by the New York Times, framed the decision within the administration's broader philosophy, stating, "President Trump’s leadership always puts American families first." This fee increase arrives during a period of sustained decline in international travel to the US.
Historically, Canadian visitors have formed a substantial portion of foreign tourists, but their numbers have been consistently falling. This trend, which has continued every month since Trump's second term began, is widely seen as a reaction to his trade policies and public rhetoric.
Simultaneously, the National Park Service itself is grappling with severe operational hurdles. The agency has endured significant funding cuts and a loss of nearly a quarter of its workforce since President Trump took office. These staffing shortages have led to a visible reduction in visitor services across many parks, manifesting as uncleaned bathrooms, shorter hours for visitor centres, and fewer guided tours and ranger-led programs.
Uncertain Outcomes and Perks for US Residents
The financial impact of this new pricing strategy remains unclear. Ironically, many parks have already lost millions of dollars in potential fee revenue this year simply because they lack the staff to man entrance booths and collect payments—a problem that also affects several parks where the higher fees will be enforced.
In a contrasting move for American citizens, the Interior Department also revealed that US residents will enjoy free entry to national parks on six federal holidays. These free days will also include the National Park Service’s birthday on August 25 and June 14, a date that coincides with both Flag Day and President Trump's birthday.
