Plan the park day, not just the park
2026 entrance fees and passes, the quietest months from official visitor counts, and sunrise, sunset and turnaround times in park time.
2026 at a glance (NPS)
- Annual pass: $80 for US residents, $250 for nonresidents
- Nonresident fee: $100 per person 16+ at 11 busy parks
- Fee-free days: 8 dates in 2026, the last on November 11; US citizens and residents only
Run your trip through the pass calculator.
Tools
ToolHike turnaround calculatorWhen to turn around so you're back before dark.ToolPark crowd calendarMonthly visits at 24 parks from official NPS counts.ToolPark pass calculatorEntrance fees vs the $80 or $250 annual pass for your trip.ToolPark sunrise and sunsetSunrise, sunset and twilight in park time for any date.
Guides
GuideAmerica the Beautiful pass 2026$80 resident and $250 nonresident pass, coverage and buying.GuideHiking in the heatTiming, water, salt and warning signs, from NPS rangers.GuideLeast crowded by monthQuieter parks for each season, from official counts.GuideFee-free days 2026All 2026 free entrance dates and what they cover.GuideNonresident fee 2026Which 11 parks charge it and how the $250 pass covers it.
Three things that make a better park day
Pay the right fee
Add up your trips: three visits to $30–$35 parks already cost more than the $80 annual pass.
Pick your month
NPS visitor counts show how much busier peak months are. Shoulder seasons can be far quieter.
Use the daylight
Know sunrise, sunset and your turnaround time before you hit the trail.
New to the terms? Our glossary explains them in plain words.