Anyone visiting several national parks quickly thinks of the America the Beautiful annual pass. But a lot changed with the prices in 2026, especially for travelers from abroad. So do the math beforehand and check the current amounts directly with the National Park Service, linked in the box above.
What the Pass Covers
The pass is valid for twelve months and covers admission to all parks managed by the National Park Service and many other federal lands. It is valid per vehicle, so for the car and all its occupants.
Note, Higher Prices for Foreign Visitors
For US citizens the annual pass costs around 80 US dollars. For travelers from abroad it has been considerably more expensive since 2026, most recently around 250 US dollars. On top of that, a per person surcharge is charged at eleven of the most visited parks, including Grand Canyon, Bryce Canyon, Zion, Yellowstone, and Yosemite. These rules are new and can change, so check the current prices before your trip.
When It Is Worth It
Even so, the pass can pay off on a road trip with several large parks. Individually, a park costs around 35 US dollars per vehicle depending on the season, plus the new surcharges. Run the numbers on your specific route once, then you will know whether the annual pass is worth it for you.
Where It Does Not Apply
The pass does not apply on tribal land like Monument Valley or Antelope Canyon (Navajo Nation), where you pay separately. Many state parks are not covered either.
Where to Get It
You can get the pass at the entrance of your first national park or in advance digitally through recreation.gov. Keep it safe, as you show it when entering.
