In a move condemned by park lovers and the tourist industry, the Trump administration on Tuesday proposed a huge jump in the entrance fees of many of America’s most popular national parks — to $70 per car for Yosemite, Grand Canyon, Yellowstone and 14 other parks, up from $25 to $30 now.
Interior Secretary Ryan Zinke said the increase, which will be considered in the coming months after public comment, is needed to help pay for maintenance costs such as repairing and renovating roads, bathrooms, trails and campgrounds.
“The infrastructure of our national parks is aging,” Zinke said in a statement. “Targeted fee increases at some of our most-visited parks will help ensure that they are protected and preserved in perpetuity and that visitors enjoy a world-class experience that mirrors the amazing destinations they are visiting.”
Under the proposal, entrance fees would be hiked at 17 national parks during “peak season,” when most Americans visit the parks. That’s when the $70 fee for cars would apply. Bringing in a motorcycle would cost $50, up from $12 to $25 now.
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