Key Takeaways:
- Digital Transformation: Starting January 1, 2026, all “America the Beautiful” national park passes will be available in a fully digital format through Recreation.gov.
- New Fee Structure: An “America-first” pricing model will be introduced, setting the annual pass at $80 for U.S. residents and $250 for nonresidents.
- Surcharges for International Visitors: Nonresidents without an annual pass will be charged a $100 per person fee to enter 11 of the most visited national parks, in addition to standard entrance fees.
- Expanded Motorcycle Access: Park access for motorcyclists will be enhanced, with each “America the Beautiful” pass now covering two motorcycles instead of one.
WASHINGTON – The Department of the Interior has announced a significant modernization of the National Park System’s access policies, set to take effect on January 1, 2026. The changes include the introduction of fully digital passes, a revised fee structure favoring U.S. residents, and expanded access for motorcyclists.
The move, described as the most substantial update in decades, aims to make park access more efficient and affordable for American families, reflecting a key initiative under President Donald J. Trump’s administration.
A Digital Future for Park Passes
Under the new system, all “America the Beautiful” passes—including Annual, Military, Senior, 4th Grade, and Access passes—will be available digitally. Visitors can purchase and use their passes instantly from mobile devices via Recreation.gov, streamlining entry and reducing wait times at park gates. Physical cards will still be available and can be linked to digital passes for convenience.
New ‘America-First’ Fee Structure
A central component of the overhaul is a new resident-focused pricing model. The cost of an annual pass will remain $80 for U.S. residents. However, the price for nonresidents will increase to $250.
Furthermore, international visitors who do not hold an annual pass will face a new $100 per person fee to enter 11 of the most popular national parks. This fee will be charged in addition to the standard park entrance fee.
“President Trump’s leadership always puts American families first,” said Secretary of the Interior Doug Burgum. “These policies ensure that U.S. taxpayers, who already support the National Park System, continue to enjoy affordable access, while international visitors contribute their fair share to maintaining and improving our parks for future generations.”
Patriotic Fee-Free Days for Residents
The Department also announced a series of resident-only fee-free days for 2026 to celebrate national holidays and milestones:
- President’s Day: February 16, 2026
- Memorial Day: May 25, 2026
- Flag Day/President Trump’s birthday: June 14, 2026
- Independence Day weekend: July 3–5, 2026
- NPS 110th Birthday: August 25, 2026
- Constitution Day: September 17, 2026
- Theodore Roosevelt’s birthday: October 27, 2026
- Veteran’s Day: November 11, 2026
More Access for Motorcyclists
The new rules also bring good news for motorcycle enthusiasts. All “America the Beautiful” passes will now grant access to two motorcycles, making it more affordable for riders and families to explore the parks.
Revenue generated from the updated fee policies will be directly reinvested into the National Park System to support facility upgrades, essential maintenance, and improved visitor services. The Department also unveiled new patriotic-themed artwork for the 2026 passes.
Image Referance: https://www.doi.gov/pressreleases/department-interior-announces-modernized-more-affordable-national-park-access