Trump slaps higher national park fees on foreign tourists, declaring america first new update

In a shocking bid to bolster America’s national parks while protecting them for future generations, President Trump signed an executive order to boost fees for overseas tourists. The policy was revealed during the Iowa State Fair at one of its events dubbed the “Salute to America” in line with the principle of “America First” in ensuring non-domestic visitors will now pay more for the maintenance of these historic places.

Trump’s Executive Order: A Shift in National Park Access

The new executive order is a part of the Trump administration’s ongoing effort to improve the accessibility and sustainability of America’s national parks. With a growing number of visitors flocking to these stunning natural landmarks, the administration has decided to increase entrance and park pass fees for foreign tourists. This step aims to increase revenue while keeping prices more affordable for American citizens.

Doug Burgum, Secretary of the Department of the Interior, will be tasked with formulating strategies to implement these fee hikes. His mission will include finding ways to generate more revenue while simultaneously improving the overall visitor experience.

Why Raise Fees for Foreign Tourists?

The primary goal behind raising fees for foreign tourists is to ensure that national parks receive the necessary funding to maintain and enhance the visitor experience. Despite the fee hikes, the administration emphasizes that these changes won’t burden American citizens, as entrance prices for them will remain unchanged.

The move is seen as a sustainable step to preserve America’s national treasures without imposing additional financial burdens on local citizens. With record visitation numbers, the new policy aims to ensure that everyone who benefits from these parks contributes to their maintenance and longevity.

The National Parks and Their Global Appeal

America’s national parks are a treasure trove of natural beauty, attracting millions of visitors annually. In 2024, a staggering 331.9 million people visited the 400 national parks across the country. The most popular among them are the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, the Grand Canyon, and Yosemite, which continue to draw crowds from all over the world.

Despite the surge in visitation, some argue that overtourism has led to overcrowding and strain on resources. Countries like Japan have already implemented two-tier pricing systems to balance local tourism with the influx of international visitors. This new “America First” approach seeks to align the needs of local citizens with the growing demand for national park access.

A Two-Tier Pricing System for a Sustainable Future

The “two-tier” pricing system will differentiate between domestic and international tourists, with higher fees imposed on foreign visitors. This system is designed to tackle the issue of overtourism, ensuring that everyone who benefits from these parks contributes to their preservation.

A spokesperson from the Department of the Interior defended the move, calling it a “common-sense” solution to a growing problem. By ensuring foreign tourists pay their fair share, the government believes it will alleviate pressure on taxpayers and maintain the parks for future generations.

The Future of America’s National Parks

The executive order marks a new chapter in the management of America’s beloved national parks. With increasing pressure on resources and infrastructure, this step is seen as essential to maintaining the natural beauty and accessibility of these iconic sites.

As annual visitors continue to increase, the future of national parks will involve finding innovative solutions. Through the implementation of specific hikes in fees for overseas tourists, the Trump administration aims to achieve the balance of ensuring inexpensive access for American citizens and ensuring overseas tourists help maintain the parks.