Canadians visiting U.S. parks to pay more than triple starting next year

Canadians who want to visit U.S. national parks like the Grand Canyon or Yosemite will need to pay more than three times the current amount starting next year. Beginning Jan. 1, the “America the Beautiful” pass, issued by the country’s National Park service, will remain the same price for Americans, but will be much higher for “nonresidents.”

A press release from the U.S. Department of the Interior this week announces “new digital passes, new annual pass artwork, America-first pricing and expanded motorcycle access … under President Trump’s leadership.”

The America-first pricing will affect Canadians and any other visiting foreign nationals. Currently the cost is US$80 (about $112 Canadian) for a year-long pass that covers one vehicle and up to four adults. Children aged 16 and under are free.

“Beginning Jan. 1, 2026, the Annual Pass will cost $80 for U.S. residents and $250 for nonresidents,” the department said in its release. The new rate is equivalent to $351 Canadian.

It adds: “Nonresidents without an annual pass will pay a $100 per person fee to enter 11 of the most visited national parks, in addition to the standard entrance fee.” Entrance fees at U.S. national parks average about US$30 per person.

“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.”

The Department also highlighted 10 “patriotic fee-free days” for 2026, including the Independence Day weekend, Veteran’s Day and Trump’s birthday, June 14. These days are free for residents only.

Trump signed an executive order in July to raise entrance fees at national parks for overseas visitors, while also ordering the Secretary of the Interior, working with the Secretary of State, “to encourage international tourism to America’s national parks and outdoor recreation areas, and especially wider utilization of America’s many such areas that may be underutilized.”

The BBC reported in March that the Trump administration’s steep cuts to staff at national parks, forests and wildlife habitats was resulting in longer park entrance lines, reduced hours at visitor centres, closed trails and unsanitary facilities.

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