National Park Fees Going Up, But Not As Much

The Interior Department is increasing fees at the most popular national parks.

If you've followed my thoughts on the proposed increased National Park fees, like most of you I thought the proposed $70 price per carload was too big a jump. After a lengthy debate, the Department of Interior backed down from the $70 per vehicle fee to a more reasonable $35. The fee increases apply to Yellowstone, Zion, Mount Rainier, Rocky Mountain and Grand Teton parks, and others.

The new plan announced this week would boost fees at 17 popular parks by $5 including our neighboring Colorado National Monument. The new fee increase goes into effect on June 1. Here are the new Monument fees:

Annual Pass: $45
Per Vehicle: $25
Per Person: $15
Per Motorcycle: $20

The proposed fee increase by Interior Secretary Ryan Zinke drew widespread opposition from lawmakers and governors. Most claimed the higher fees could exclude many Americans from enjoying the parks. The agency received over 100,000 comments on the plan, most were opposed.

Interior Secretary Ryan Zinke thanked those who made their voices heard through the public comment process: “Your input has helped us develop a balanced plan that focuses on modest increases,” he said. The revised plan is “a big win for park lovers everywhere,” said Rep. Raul Grijalva of Arizona, and I couldn't agree more.

To really save on your next visit to a National Park plan to take advantage these upcoming 2018 "Free Entrance Days"!

• April 21: First day of National Park Week
• September 22: National Public Lands Day
• November 11: Veterans Day

Credit: KKCO 11News