U.S. National Parks to Increase Entry Fees for International Visitors

Beginning January 1, 2026, international visitors to 11 prominent U.S. national parks, including the Grand Canyon, Yellowstone, and Yosemite, will be subject to an additional $100 entry fee. The annual park pass for foreign tourists will also increase from $80 to $250, while U.S. residents will continue to pay $80.

This policy change follows a July executive order by President Donald Trump directing the Department of the Interior to raise entrance fees for foreign visitors. Interior Secretary Doug Burgum stated that the adjustments ensure U.S. taxpayers "continue to enjoy affordable access, while international visitors contribute their fair share to maintaining and improving our parks for future generations."

The National Park Service has faced significant challenges, including staff reductions and budget cuts, exacerbated by a recent government shutdown. The additional revenue from increased fees is intended to support park maintenance and facility improvements.

Critics, such as the National Parks Conservation Association, have expressed concerns about the implementation and potential impacts of the fee increases. Kati Schmidt, a spokesperson for the association, noted, "There's a lot to unpack in this announcement, including many questions on its implementation."

In 2018, U.S. national parks and monuments attracted over 14 million international visitors. Yellowstone National Park reported that nearly 15% of its visitors in 2024 were from outside the country, a decrease from 30% in 2018.

Additionally, the new policy designates certain fee-free days exclusively for U.S. residents, including Veterans Day, which was previously open to all visitors.