The Department of the Interior announced what it calls the “most significant modernization of national park access in decades,” introducing new pricing that claims to make national parks more affordable for Americans. And, in turn, more expensive for everyone else. One problem: That’s not entirely true, unless you drive a motorcycle. Here’s how it breaks down.
National park fee changes — 3x higher for foreign visitors
If you’re planning a national park trip in 2026 and you’re an American, your America the Beautiful pass will cost exactly what it did before: $80. But if you’re visiting from abroad? Prepare to pay significantly more. Starting January 1, 2026, non-residents will pay $250 for an annual pass — more than triple the current rate — or fork over $100 per person just to enter the 11 most-visited parks. And that’s on top of standard entrance fees.
Interior Secretary Doug Burgum framed the changes as “America-first” policies that ensure international visitors “contribute their fair share” to park maintenance. The announcement emphasized putting “American families first” and ensuring U.S. taxpayers “receive the greatest benefit” from parks they already support through taxes.
What’s actually new for Americans (besides higher prices for others)
While American pass prices remain static, there are some legitimate updates. The passes will finally go digital through Recreation.gov, meaning you can buy and store them on your phone instead of waiting for a physical card. The passes will also feature redesigned artwork — including one version with portraits of George Washington and Donald Trump side by side.
Motorcycle enthusiasts get a modest win: all passes will now cover two motorcycles instead of one.
The administration is also adding five new “fee-free days” exclusively for U.S. residents, bringing the annual total to 10. The additions include July 3-5 for the Declaration of Independence’s 250th anniversary, Constitution Day (September 17), Theodore Roosevelt’s birthday (October 27), and Flag Day — which, Burgum noted, is “fittingly President Trump’s birthday” (June 14).
The announcement positions these changes as conservation-focused, with revenue supposedly reinvested in park facilities and maintenance. However, critics point out that under current leadership, the Interior Department has lost nearly a quarter of national parks staff, proposed billions in public lands cuts, and defunded conservation organizations.
The bottom line? If you’re an American traveler, your wallet won’t notice a difference — but international visitors will certainly feel the impact of these “America-first” fees.