Canada to U.S. Tourism: Is It Worth the Cost? New National Park Fees Could Impact Cross-Border Travel

Published on November 26, 2025

Canada to U.S. tourism: ‘Is it worth the cost?’ At a time when Canadian travellers are reassessing their next escape, the U.S. has introduced a major change — starting from January 1, 2025, foreign visitors will face steeper fees to enter many of America’s national parks. As the annual pass for non‑residents more than triples from US $80 to US $250, and a US $100 surcharge is added at 11 top parks, Canadians who routinely make weekend getaways across the border may pause and ask: is the trip still worth it? With airlines, hotels and local tourism operators already noticing fewer bookings from the north, this move could reshape cross‑border travel sooner than many expect.

Canada to U.S. Tourism: Is It Worth the Cost? New National Park Fees Could Impact Cross-Border Travel

Starting January 1, 2025, foreign tourists will face a significant shift in how they experience America’s national parks. The Trump administration has announced a major hike in entrance fees for non-resident visitors, which could have major repercussions for Canadian tourists visiting iconic sites like Yosemite, Yellowstone, and the Grand Canyon. With Canadian travelers forming a significant portion of foreign park visitors, these price hikes could create friction at the border, leading many to question: is it still worth the cost to visit U.S. parks?

A New Era for U.S. National Parks

The U.S. national parks have long been one of the country’s greatest natural treasures, drawing millions of international visitors each year. However, the new pricing model announced by the U.S. Department of the Interior will more than triple the cost of an annual park pass for non-residents, from $80 to $250. In addition to the increased annual pass fees, foreign tourists visiting the most popular parks—like the Grand Canyon, Yellowstone, and Yosemite—will face an extra $100 surcharge per park. These new fees are expected to start in 2025, and Canadian tourists, who make up a significant portion of international park visitors, may be the most affected.

For many Canadians, a visit to U.S. national parks is a relatively short and affordable getaway, with many of them traveling by car across the U.S.-Canada border. However, the increase in fees could lead to a reduction in cross-border travel, especially for those who regularly visit parks as part of their vacation plans. What does this mean for Canadian travelers who have long enjoyed the convenience and beauty of American national parks?

Is U.S. Travel Becoming Too Expensive for Canadians?

The Trump administration’s decision to raise park fees is seen by many as a way to help maintain the National Park Service’s operations in the face of underfunding. While these parks are managed by the federal government, visitor fees play a significant role in the maintenance of park facilities, staffing, and infrastructure. However, as the cost of visiting these parks rises, tourists from Canada and other international destinations may be less inclined to take the trip.

According to recent studies, Canadian visitors account for a substantial portion of international park visits. The National Park Service (NPS) estimates that Canadians made up nearly 15% of all foreign park visitors in 2024. This figure is likely to decrease if the new pricing system takes effect, as Canadians may reconsider whether the costs associated with travel to U.S. parks—flights, accommodation, meals, and now increased entry fees—are worth the expense.

The increased fees could also disrupt the broader travel industry. Airlines, hotels, and local businesses near national parks are likely to feel the effects of reduced Canadian tourism. Many Canadians travel to the U.S. for the ease and affordability of visiting national parks, often booking flights with airlines such as Air Canada, WestJet, and American Airlines, which frequently offer direct flights to cities near major parks. These airlines, along with hotel chains and local tourism operators, will likely experience a decline in bookings, especially during the peak summer travel season.

How Airlines and Hotels Will Feel the Impact

The airline and hospitality industries will face the direct fallout from this fee increase. For airlines like Air Canada, WestJet, Delta, and American Airlines, which rely heavily on cross-border traffic from Canadian travelers, this could mean fewer international bookings. These airlines often operate direct routes from major Canadian cities—such as Toronto, Vancouver, Montreal, and Calgary—to popular U.S. destinations near national parks. With the additional burden of higher park fees, many Canadians may rethink their travel plans, opting for alternative destinations that offer lower travel costs or more affordable park experiences.

Hotels, especially those located near national parks, will also feel the pressure. For many Canadian tourists, visiting the U.S. national parks is a multi-day adventure, and they frequently stay in nearby hotels or lodges. Hotel chains such as Marriott, Hilton, and Hyatt, which have locations in cities close to iconic parks, will experience fewer bookings if Canadian tourists shy away from the higher costs associated with park visits. For example, hotels in Grand Canyon Village or Jackson Hole, Wyoming, could see reduced occupancy rates if fewer Canadians choose to visit.

Moreover, local businesses that cater to park visitors—restaurants, souvenir shops, and tour companies—are likely to see a drop in revenue as well. Small towns near national parks depend heavily on tourism, and any reduction in the number of Canadian visitors could have a ripple effect on the local economy.

Flight Details and Travel Tips for Canadian Tourists

While the price increase at U.S. national parks may deter some Canadian travelers, it’s important to remember that flying into the U.S. and exploring other regions outside the national parks could still offer a fulfilling vacation experience. Many Canadian airlines continue to offer competitive fares for travel to major U.S. cities. Air Canada and WestJet provide direct flights to U.S. cities like New York, Chicago, and Los Angeles, where travelers can experience the rich cultural and historical attractions of the U.S.

If you’re a Canadian traveler considering a trip to the U.S. post-fee hike, here are some travel tips to make the most of your trip:

1. Plan Your Flight in Advance: Booking early can help you secure the best flight deals. Air Canada offers direct flights from Toronto to Los Angeles, while WestJet has seasonal routes to cities like San Francisco and Las Vegas. Look for airlines that offer flexible cancellation policies in case you need to adjust your plans.
2. Explore Non-National Park Destinations: If the fee hikes make visiting national parks less appealing, consider exploring other areas in the U.S. that offer unique experiences, such as city tours, beach vacations, or cultural destinations. Cities like New York, Miami, and San Francisco provide plenty of opportunities for sightseeing without the high costs associated with national park visits.
3. Travel in Off-Peak Seasons: Visiting during the shoulder seasons—spring and fall—can help you avoid higher costs and crowded attractions. Airfare is often more affordable, and you can enjoy parks and cities without the summer crowds.
4. Consider Alternative Accommodations: While traditional hotels near national parks can be expensive, consider renting a vacation home or cabin through platforms like Airbnb or Vrbo. These options are often more affordable and allow you to enjoy the natural beauty of the area without the steep costs.
5. Look for Regional Flights: Consider flying into cities near parks, such as Salt Lake City for access to the Grand Canyon or Denver for Rocky Mountain National Park. Regional flights can often be cheaper, and you can drive to the park from there, saving on overall travel costs.

The Bottom Line: Will Canadians Stop Visiting U.S. Parks?

While the new fee structure may reduce some Canadian tourism to U.S. national parks, it’s unlikely to completely “sink” cross-border travel. Many Canadians will still visit the U.S. for various reasons, including the rich cultural offerings, world-class cities, and vibrant entertainment scenes. However, for those who have long relied on the affordability and accessibility of national parks, the price hike could be a turning point.

The best advice for Canadian travelers is to stay informed about the new fees, compare alternative destinations, and plan trips well in advance to maximize cost savings. While U.S. national parks may remain a significant draw for many, the rising costs could encourage a shift in travel habits, prompting Canadians to explore new regions or seek out other types of vacation experiences.

Ultimately, the impact of these fee hikes will depend on how Canadians weigh the costs of visiting national parks versus other vacation options. For those who are passionate about the natural beauty and wilderness of the U.S., the parks may still be worth the price. But for others, the appeal of a more affordable vacation could outweigh the allure of America’s iconic parks.

Canada to U.S. tourism: ‘Is it worth the cost?’ With new national park fees skyrocketing, Canadian travelers may rethink their trips south. Will the increased costs push them to explore other destinations instead?

In conclusion, while it remains to be seen how significant the effect of these price increases will be on Canadian tourism to U.S. national parks, the travel landscape is shifting. Airlines, hotels, and local tourism providers are likely to feel the impact, but it’s up to travelers to decide if the cost is worth it. Whether you’re planning a trip to the Grand Canyon, Yellowstone, or a city adventure, it’s important to consider all your options and plan accordingly to make the most of your U.S. trip.