Getting into national parks could soon go faster if a pair of United States senators get their wish. An effort to streamline the entrance process would ultimately give you more time to explore.
Digital Park Pass
Senators Angus King of Maine and Steve Daines of Montana are leading the charge to create a digital park pass to replace the current paper one. The pair is pitching the idea to the National Parks Service, arguing that the digital version will be more time-efficient. Right now, park visitors must show their paper pass along with their ID in order to gain entry into the more than 2,000 sites covered by the “America the Beautiful” pass.
The senators cite the need for the park system to adopt a more modern approach to park visitation, saying in a statement that travelers have “grown to expect the convenience of modern technology during daily activities.” Currently, Acadia National Park in Maine uses an online entrance program, and the senators say the process has seen success.
Annual Passes
An annual “America the Beautiful” National Parks pass will run you $80 a year. Current and retired U.S. military can get the pass for free, as can current 4th graders. Seniors (62+) get a discounted rate of $20 annually or $80 for a lifetime pass.
Use your park pass to explore our top hikes in Yellowstone National Park, the best activities in Everglades National Park, or take a look at our top 10 National Park experiences.