Foreign visitors to iconic sites like the Grand Canyon will soon face higher entry fees, following an executive order signed by President Donald Trump on July 3. The move aims to preserve access for American families while raising revenue for park maintenance and development.
“From the awe-inspiring Grand Canyon to the tranquility of the Great Smoky Mountains, America’s national parks have provided generations of American families with unforgettable memories,” the order states. “We’re raising fees for foreign tourists to improve affordability for U.S. residents and protect these national treasures.”
Arizona Hit Hardest
Arizona, home to 22 of the nation’s 63 national parks, including the Grand Canyon and Saguaro National Park, will feel the impact more than most. Millions of visitors pass through these parks each year, contributing significantly to the state’s tourism economy.
The executive order also raises the price of the America the Beautiful Pass for non-U.S. residents. Currently priced at $80 annually, the pass covers entrance and amenity fees for federally managed lands.
While U.S. visitors may benefit from improved services and lower costs, Trump’s order also repeals Obama-era diversity and inclusion policies in public land management—a move in line with the administration’s broader rollback of DEI efforts.
New Challenges for the Park System
Interior Secretary Doug Burgum has been tasked with setting the new foreign entry fees and developing strategies to boost revenue while maintaining access and sustainability. The order also encourages international tourism to underutilized parks, despite the increased fees.
“This will ensure our parks stay accessible, sustainable, and protected for generations to come,” Burgum said on social media.
However, Bill Wade, director of the Association of National Park Rangers, raised logistical concerns.
“It’s gonna be a mess,” Wade said, questioning how staff would verify residency without slowing down entry lines. “Short of asking for a passport, I don’t see how they’ll enforce it.”
A Grand Canyon spokesperson did not confirm how the park plans to implement the changes. Currently, the vehicle entry fee is $35 for a week-long pass.
Staffing Cuts and Strained Resources
Compounding the challenge, the National Park Service has lost nearly 25% of its permanent staff since Trump first took office, according to the National Parks Conservation Association. Staffing reductions were accelerated earlier this year when the Department of Government Efficiency, led by Trump adviser Elon Musk, terminated large numbers of NPS employees.
“Parks across the country are scrambling to operate with bare-bones crews,” the NPCA noted.
Tourism Impact Still Unclear
While foreign tourists may reconsider visiting due to the price hike, Wade doubts the policy will change American behavior.
“American citizens are going to come regardless. It’s not gonna increase their visitation,” he said.
Critics argue that the combination of higher fees, staffing cuts, and policy rollbacks may jeopardize both the visitor experience and the long-term health of America’s most cherished landscapes.
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