Starting January 1, 2026, a major change took effect across some of the most visited U.S. national parks. International visitors now pay an additional $100 entry fee, on top of standard park admission, when visiting select parks. The policy is already drawing attention from hikers, travelers, and outdoor advocates across the country.
The change applies to highly visited destinations like Yosemite and the Grand Canyon, and it may influence how international hikers plan trips through America’s park system. You can read more details in this coverage from KQED.
For Stacey Slamka, who has explored trails from Washington to Vermont, access and affordability are core parts of what makes national parks special.
What the New Fee Means for Park Access
Under the updated structure, visitors from outside the United States must pay the standard entrance fee plus the $100 surcharge. Domestic visitors see no change in pricing, and the America the Beautiful annual pass remains available to U.S. residents at the same rate.
Supporters of the policy say the added revenue could help address deferred maintenance and growing strain on park infrastructure. Critics argue it may discourage international visitors who plan multi-park hiking trips.
Impacts on Hiking Travel Plans
For hikers flying in from abroad, costs can add up quickly. Someone hoping to hike in several national parks during one trip may now need to budget hundreds more just for entry fees. That could lead to shorter trips, fewer park stops, or a shift toward lesser-known public lands.
For Stacey Slamka, hiking has always been about connection — to landscapes, challenge, and perspective. From Mount Rainier to Mount Saint Helens, she’s seen how carefully managed access helps protect trails while still welcoming people from around the world.
What This Means for the Future of the Parks
National parks continue to face rising visitation, aging infrastructure, and limited resources. This fee change signals a broader conversation about how parks are funded and who pays for their upkeep.
For hikers, the takeaway is simple: planning matters more than ever. Checking entry costs, understanding park policies, and supporting conservation efforts all play a role in keeping trails open and protected for the next generation.
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