Non-residents to be charged 0 for entry to popular U.S. national parks.
As the United States embarks on a significant policy shift regarding entry fees for international visitors to its national parks, the implications of such changes raise important questions about accessibility, conservation funding, and the experience of non-American travelers. This new directive, framed under a “America-first” approach, reflects not only a shift in fiscal strategy but also a reevaluation of how America prioritizes its cherished natural resources amid budget challenges.
The United States government recently announced a controversial new pricing structure aimed at non-US residents, which will take effect at 11 of the country’s most popular national parks. As part of its 2026 fee scheme, the Department of the Interior has set a 0 entry fee per person for international visitors without an annual pass. The annual parks pass fee for non-US residents is also set to rise dramatically from to 0.
Secretary of the Interior Doug Burgum stated that these adjustments were made to ensure that international visitors contribute their fair share toward the upkeep and enhancement of these natural treasures. He emphasized that the enhanced fees enable American families to maintain affordable access to parks that are partly funded by US taxpayers.
The affected parks include well-known sites such as the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, which saw over 14 million visitors in recent years, and notable destinations like Zion National Park and the Grand Canyon. Historically, the Great Smoky Mountains allowed free access, while Zion’s entry fees ranged from to and the Grand Canyon charged between to per vehicle.
Critics of this new fee structure have argued that while the intention may be to bolster park funding, it coincides with significant reductions in federal funding to the National Park Service (NPS). Earlier proposals by the administration included budget cuts of up to billion for the NPS, leading to mounting concerns about the future of maintenance and staffing at these national gems. Over the past year, the NPS has reportedly lost about 4,000 staff members, significantly impacting visitor services.
Despite these financial constraints, the parks have remained operational during federal government shutdowns, often with limited resources. As discussions around the management and funding of these parks continue, the balance between maintaining accessible experiences for all visitors and ensuring quality conservation efforts remains crucial. The financial strategies put in place will likely serve as a litmus test for the administration’s commitment to one of America’s most cherished landscapes.
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