National Parks Across the U.S. Prepare for 2026: Grand Canyon, Yosemite, and Yellowstone Introduce New Visitor Rules – What You Need to Know

Published on January 7, 2026

The U.S. National Park Service manages 63 national parks and over 400 other sites across the United States and its territories, each offering a wealth of natural beauty, historic significance, and unique experiences. Brand USA, the nation’s destination marketing organization, invites travelers to discover both iconic parks and lesser-known gems, featuring everything from wildlife-rich wetlands and dramatic geological landscapes to historic architecture, immersive reenactments, vintage train rides, and even nostalgic soda tastings. Whether on land or beneath the water’s surface, America’s parks provide unforgettable moments for those eager to explore.

The U.S. Department of the Interior has unveiled new visitor policies and fee schedules, effective January 1, with the aim of enhancing park infrastructure and ensuring that the revenue generated from visitors directly benefits the parks. Among the key changes, a $100 non-resident surcharge has been introduced for each visitor aged 16 and older at 11 of the most visited national parks, including Acadia, Bryce Canyon, Everglades, Glacier, Grand Canyon, Grand Teton, Rocky Mountain, Sequoia & Kings Canyon, Yellowstone, Yosemite, and Zion National Parks.

For those planning to visit three or more parks, the new $250 America the Beautiful Non-Resident Annual Pass could offer a cost-effective alternative. The pass covers entrance fees and the non-resident surcharge at the parks listed (for the passholder and up to three accompanying adults where per-person fees apply) and is valid for 12 months from the date of purchase.

International travelers are encouraged to visit during shoulder seasons to avoid crowds and enjoy a more relaxed experience. Before planning their trips, visitors should consult the National Park Service website and relevant state park sites for updates on closures, seasonal changes, and other important information.

EXPERIENCE AMERICA’S ICONIC AND UNTAPPED NATIONAL PARKS

ACADIA NATIONAL PARK (MAINE)
Acadia National Park is a top destination for visitors to Maine, offering sweeping sunrise views from Cadillac Mountain, the serene waters of Jordan Pond, and dramatic coastal vistas along Park Loop Road. The picturesque harborfront town of Bar Harbor adds to the charm. Nearby, visitors can explore the Katahdin Woods and Waters National Monument, a star-gazing haven and part of the International Appalachian Trail. The area offers breathtaking mountain views, a dark sky sanctuary for night-time stargazing, and a sense of remote solitude. While the rugged terrain is suitable for those with medium to hard hiking skills, the nearby Saint Croix Island International Historic Site provides a more relaxed, educational experience with trails and interpretive exhibits.

BRYCE CANYON NATIONAL PARK (UTAH)
Known for its glowing hoodoos—rock spires that catch the first and last rays of the sun—Bryce Canyon offers spectacular vistas from the Rim Trail, immersive hikes through the Navajo Loop and Queen’s Garden trails, and unparalleled stargazing opportunities. The nearby Grand Staircase–Escalante National Monument is rich in geological formations and historical sites, including ancient Puebloan ruins. It also offers thrilling hiking adventures across rugged terrain. For a more relaxed pace, Capitol Reef National Park, with its geological “wrinkle in the Earth,” invites visitors to explore fruit orchards and scenic trails suitable for all levels.

EVERGLADES NATIONAL PARK (FLORIDA)
The Everglades National Park is a massive subtropical wilderness offering rich biodiversity, including endangered species like the Florida Panther. Visitors can canoe through waterways, birdwatch, and enjoy scenic drives. Big Cypress National Preserve, located nearby, offers a more remote experience with opportunities for paddling, hiking, and wildlife watching. Biscayne National Park, with its coral reefs and mangrove forests, is a paradise for water enthusiasts, providing activities like snorkeling, boating, and island exploration.

GLACIER NATIONAL PARK (MONTANA)
Glacier National Park is a breathtaking blend of towering peaks, alpine lakes, and wildflower-filled meadows. The iconic Going-to-the-Sun Road offers one of the most scenic drives in America, leading to panoramic views and crystal-clear waters at Lake McDonald. For visitors seeking a deeper dive into the region’s history and ranching heritage, the Grant-Kohrs Ranch National Historic Site preserves the legacy of 19th-century cattle ranching. The Big Hole National Battlefield, located nearby, commemorates the Nez Perce War with exhibits and interpretive programs.

GRAND CANYON NATIONAL PARK (ARIZONA)
No visit to the Grand Canyon is complete without experiencing its vast and vibrant landscapes. From the panoramic viewpoints along the South Rim to the peaceful North Rim, visitors can enjoy hikes along the famous Bright Angel Trail and the quiet, stunning beauty of the Colorado River. Additional historical sites like Wupatki National Monument and Sunset Crater Volcano National Monument offer ancient ruins, volcanic landscapes, and scenic hiking trails. Visitors can explore these sites through short walks or more challenging hikes for a deeper understanding of the area’s history and geology.

GRAND TETON NATIONAL PARK (WYOMING)
Grand Teton National Park is famed for its dramatic mountain scenery, crystal-clear lakes, and abundant wildlife, including moose, elk, and bald eagles. The John D. Rockefeller Jr. Memorial Parkway offers easy access between Grand Teton and Yellowstone National Parks, with wildlife viewing opportunities along the Snake River. Fort Laramie National Historic Site provides a glimpse into the history of the American West, offering interactive exhibits and living-history programs. For more geological wonders, Devils Tower National Monument stands as a towering symbol of the American landscape, offering scenic trails and a glimpse into Native American culture.

ROCKY MOUNTAIN NATIONAL PARK (COLORADO)
Rocky Mountain National Park offers spectacular alpine vistas, serene lakes, and diverse wildlife. Trail Ridge Road, the highest paved road in North America, provides a scenic drive through the park’s high-altitude tundra. Visitors can explore serene Bear Lake, hike along scenic trails, or embark on more challenging treks to experience the rugged beauty of Colorado’s mountains. Nearby, Bent’s Old Fort National Historic Site and Sand Creek Massacre National Historic Site preserve the cultural history of the region, offering educational experiences and tranquil hiking.

SEQUOIA & KINGS CANYON NATIONAL PARKS (CALIFORNIA)
Home to the world’s largest tree by volume, the General Sherman Tree, Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks offer awe-inspiring views of towering giant sequoias, dramatic cliffs, and pristine alpine lakes. Visitors can hike through the Giant Forest or venture up Moro Rock for sweeping views of the Sierra Nevada Mountains. Manzanar National Historic Site provides a poignant reminder of Japanese American internment during World War II. For geological intrigue, Devils Postpile National Monument features striking basalt formations and scenic trails.

YELLOWSTONE NATIONAL PARK (WYOMING, MONTANA, IDAHO)
Yellowstone National Park is famous for its geothermal wonders, including Old Faithful, the Grand Prismatic Spring, and vibrant geysers. The park’s valleys and meadows offer exceptional wildlife viewing opportunities. Nearby, Bighorn Canyon National Recreation Area offers dramatic canyon landscapes, while Little Bighorn Battlefield National Monument memorializes the infamous 1876 battle. Visitors can reflect on local history, explore nature, and participate in guided tours for an immersive experience.

With America’s diverse national parks offering everything from immersive historical experiences and challenging hikes to tranquil landscapes and vibrant wildlife, each visit presents an opportunity for discovery. Whether you’re venturing to well-known sites or hidden gems, these parks offer unparalleled experiences for adventurers and history buffs alike. Be sure to check the latest travel advisories and plan your visit accordingly to maximize your experience in these extraordinary places.

YOSEMITE NATIONAL PARK (CALIFORNIA)
Yosemite National Park, renowned for its breathtaking natural beauty, is a crown jewel in California’s landscape. Dominating the park’s scenery are the imposing granite cliffs of El Capitan, the challenging ascent and panoramic vistas of Half Dome, and the lush meadows of Yosemite Valley. Cascading waterfalls, like the mighty Yosemite Falls and the delicate Bridalveil Fall, complete the dramatic landscape. This iconic park is not only a hub for serious adventurers but also an accessible destination for those seeking more leisurely experiences in nature. Here are some neighboring gems worth exploring:

Golden Gate National Recreation Area – Near San Francisco, California (free entry)
Points of interest: Spanning 19 unique ecosystems, this UNESCO Biosphere Reserve is the only one in the world encompassing land, sea, and urban areas. The park includes towering coastal cliffs, tranquil beaches, historic military sites, and cultural hubs such as an art center with rotating resident artists. It’s perfect for hiking, biking, and exploring landmarks like Fort Point.
Level of difficulty: Easy to moderate. Trails range from gentle urban paths to steep coastal routes.

Muir Woods National Monument – Marin County, California (standard entry fee; parking fee)
Points of interest: Muir Woods is home to towering old-growth redwoods, some of the oldest and tallest trees on Earth. Just 16.5 miles from San Francisco, the monument offers a variety of hiking trails, from flat, easy walks to challenging mountain climbs connecting to nearby Mount Tamalpais State Park.
Level of difficulty: Easy to difficult. The most popular trails are flat and well-maintained, while some loops offer more strenuous hikes.

ZION NATIONAL PARK (UTAH)
Zion National Park, Utah’s first national park, boasts awe-inspiring sandstone cliffs that soar as high as 3,000 feet. Its varied landscape invites adventurers of all kinds, from those eager to hike The Narrows, a river trek through narrow canyons, to those seeking the adrenaline rush of Angels Landing. The park’s serene spots, like the Emerald Pools, provide a peaceful contrast to the rugged beauty. For additional outdoor adventures, nearby attractions include:

Cedar Breaks National Monument – Brian Head, Utah (standard entrance fee)
Points of interest: Known for its vast, 2,000-foot-deep natural amphitheater carved from the “Pink Cliffs” of the Claron Formation, Cedar Breaks offers stunning views from an altitude of 10,000 feet. Visitors can also enjoy star-gazing, alpine meadows, and wildflower blooms in summer. In winter, a guided snowshoe hike provides a beginner-friendly outdoor experience.
Level of difficulty: Easy to moderate. Rim trails are accessible, while longer hikes into the amphitheater can be strenuous. High elevation requires acclimatization.

Pipe Spring National Monument – Fredonia, Arizona (standard park entrance fee)
Points of interest: A historic Mormon settlement that highlights Native American history through the Kaibab Band of Paiute Indians Museum. Visitors can tour historic sites like Winsor Castle, a partially restored fort, and learn about the area’s ecology and water management practices.
Level of difficulty: Easy. Short, flat trails and guided tours make it an accessible destination for families.

EXPERIENCE THE ROAD LESS TRAVELED: A TOUR OF NATIONAL AND STATE PARKS ACROSS THE U.S.
From the Northeast to the Pacific Northwest and the farthest corners of the country, national and state parks offer a diverse range of landscapes and experiences. Whether you’re an outdoor enthusiast seeking adventure, someone craving peace and solitude, or a family in search of fun and educational experiences, these parks provide unforgettable destinations.

Northeast

• Franconia Notch State Park – Lincoln, New Hampshire: Nestled in the White Mountains, known for Flume Gorge and Echo Lake waterfalls, along with alpine hiking trails.
• Minute Man National Historical Park – Lexington, Massachusetts: Explore the site of the first battle of the American Revolution, with battlefields, historic buildings, and reenactments.
• Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area – Pennsylvania/New Jersey: Features river valleys, waterfalls, and the Appalachian Trail, offering both challenging hikes and scenic drives.
• Weir Farm National Historic Site – Wilton, Connecticut: A haven for art lovers, where visitors can create their own masterpieces while enjoying nature and exploring the home of impressionist painter J. Alden Weir.

Mid-Atlantic

• Niagara Falls State Park – Niagara Falls, New York: Witness one of the world’s most famous natural wonders, complete with boat tours and walking paths along the falls.
• Harpers Ferry National Historical Park – Harpers Ferry, West Virginia: Step back into history at the site of John Brown’s raid, with museums and preserved buildings.
• Assateague State Park – Assateague Island, Maryland: Known for its wild horses, beaches, and coastal marshes, ideal for swimming, camping, and birdwatching.
• Kenilworth Park & Aquatic Gardens – Washington, D.C.: A serene escape dedicated to aquatic plants, with peaceful walking trails and seasonal blooms.

South

• Dry Tortugas National Park – Florida: Accessible by boat or seaplane, this remote park features Fort Jefferson and some of the clearest waters in the country for snorkeling.
• Congaree National Park – South Carolina: A pristine hardwood forest with boardwalk trails and canoeing through swampy waters.
• Big Bend National Park – Texas: Known for its bird-watching, desert canyons, and Rio Grande vistas, this remote park offers unparalleled stargazing opportunities.
• Great Smoky Mountains National Park – Tennessee/North Carolina: A haven for wildlife and wildflowers, with waterfalls and over 90 historic structures.

Midwest

• Isle Royale National Park – Michigan: A secluded island park in Lake Superior, ideal for boaters and hikers looking for tranquility in nature.
• Cuyahoga Valley National Park – Ohio: Nestled between Cleveland and Akron, offering waterfalls, scenic train rides, and forested trails.
• Indiana Dunes National Park – Indiana: Features towering sand dunes along the shores of Lake Michigan, with a variety of hiking and birdwatching opportunities.
• Mackinac Island State Park – Michigan: This 80% state park on Mackinac Island offers historical sites, scenic bluffs, and car-free transportation.

Pacific Northwest

• Olympic National Park – Washington: A diverse park with rainforests, alpine peaks, lakes, and a rugged coastline.
• Mount Rainier National Park – Washington: Home to the 14,410-foot Mount Rainier, the park offers stunning views, wildflower meadows, and hiking through volcanic terrain.
• Crater Lake National Park – Oregon: Known for its crystal-clear lake, which fills the caldera of a collapsed volcano, with scenic overlooks and hiking trails.
• Smith Rock State Park – Oregon: A world-renowned rock climbing destination with dramatic volcanic spires and deep river canyons.

California

• Humboldt Redwoods State Park – California: Home to some of the tallest trees on Earth, this park features hiking trails and scenic drives through ancient redwood groves.
• Lassen Volcanic National Park – California: A lesser-known park with geothermal features, volcanic landscapes, and pristine lakes.
• Pinnacles National Park – California: Famous for its volcanic rock formations and California condors soaring above, it’s a perfect destination for rock climbers and hikers.
• Channel Islands National Park – California: An isolated archipelago with rugged landscapes, sea caves, and diverse marine life, accessible only by boat or small plane.

Alaska

• Gates of the Arctic National Park – Alaska: Located entirely within the Arctic Circle, this remote park offers pure wilderness with no roads or trails, perfect for adventurers seeking solitude.
• Katmai National Park and Preserve – Alaska: Famous for its brown bear populations and volcanic landscapes, this park is a must-visit for bear watchers.
• Denali National Park and Preserve – Alaska: Home to North America’s tallest peak, Mount Denali, this park offers remote wilderness, wildlife viewing, and stunning landscapes.
• Kachemak Bay State Park – Alaska: Accessible by boat, this coastal park offers fjords, glaciers, and abundant wildlife, perfect for kayakers and outdoor enthusiasts.

Hawaii

• Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park – Big Island: Home to Mauna Loa and Kīlauea, this UNESCO World Heritage site offers volcanic landscapes and cultural insights.
• Haleakalā National Park – Maui: Known for its sunrise views from the summit of Haleakalā Crater, the park features diverse ecosystems and stunning vistas.
• Kalaupapa National Historical Park – Moloka‘i: Preserving the history of those affected by leprosy, this remote park offers hiking and historical tours.

Puerto Rico & U.S. Virgin Islands

• San Juan National Historic Site – Puerto Rico: Explore the Castillo San Felipe del Morro fort and the charming corners of Old San Juan.
• Virgin Islands National Park – St. John: A tropical paradise with beaches, coral reefs, and lush trails, this park offers a blend of history and nature.

Minor Outlying Islands

• War in the Pacific National Historic Site – Guam: A poignant site honoring soldiers from World War II, featuring memorials, museums, and self-guided tours.
• American Memorial Park – Saipan: Offering a connection to World War II, this park includes museums, memorials, and recreational areas for visitors.