Find the cheapest way into the parks on your trip
Add your parks and the people in your group. You'll see every way to pay, with the maths shown.
Worked examples
Summer 2027 visits of two days, travelling by car, using NPS prices checked October 24, 2026.
| Group and trip | Pay at each gate | Cheapest way | Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| Two adults from abroad, car, Zion only | $235 | Zion annual pass depends on an unconfirmed rule | $70 |
| Family of four from abroad (two kids under 16), car, Zion and Bryce Canyon | $470 | Zion and Bryce Canyon annual passes depends on an unconfirmed rule | $140 |
| Four adults from abroad, car, Zion only | $435 | Zion annual pass depends on an unconfirmed rule | $70 |
| U.S. resident driving a partner from abroad, Yellowstone and Grand Teton | $270 | America the Beautiful pass (resident) | $80 |
| Retired U.S. couple aged 64 and 66, Grand Canyon | $35 | Senior annual pass | $20 |
What we're still checking with NPS
Official pages call the $100 a per-person fee but do not say how long it lasts. Forum answers say it shares the 7-day entrance window; some tour operators say it is charged per entry. Our totals charge it once per park visit of up to 7 days.
Official pages confirm a park-specific annual pass covers the nonresident fee, but do not say whether a nonresident can buy one, or at what price. We show this option separately and mark it unconfirmed when nobody in your group is a U.S. resident.
Official pages do not say whether people living in the U.S. on a visa (for example H-1B or F-1) count as residents. They only list the documents accepted as proof. Our totals treat them as nonresidents, and show what changes if they count as residents.
Common questions
Does my U.S. resident friend's pass cover me as a passenger?
Yes, in a private vehicle. NPS says annual passes cover entrance and nonresident fees for the pass holder and passengers in a private vehicle. The holder has to be there and show photo ID.
Is the $100 charged every time I enter?
NPS has not said. Forum answers say it lasts as long as the 7-day entrance pass; some tour operators say it is charged per entry. Our totals charge it once per visit of up to 7 days.
Do children pay the $100?
No. The fee applies to nonresidents aged 16 and older.
Can a visitor from abroad buy the $250 pass?
Yes. Anyone can buy the $250 nonresident America the Beautiful pass.