Complete Your Application Online Or By Mail
If you dont have a location near you to purchase, you can also get your pass online or through the mail. As noted previously, this includes a $10 additional fee on top of the cost of the pass.
You can purchase the lifetime pass or annual pass online through the USGS online store. When you purchase your pass online, it will not be downloadable or printable. The Park service reviews your application and mails your pass to you. When purchasing the past digitally, youll upload your ID documents for proof of age and residency.
If youd rather purchase your pass online, you can use this application form found online. This is similar to the application used for in-person registering. Youll need to mail your form with a photocopy of your ID. Acceptable IDs include a U.S. state drivers license, your birth certificate, passport, or green card. Similar to the online application, the park service mails your pass to you.
Boomers: $10 Lifetime Senior Pass To National Parks Has Changed
Access U.S. National Parks with your lifetime pass
At one time boomers and seniors 62 and older could have access to a lifetime National Parks senior pass for $10. This lifetime pass has now been increased to $80. The purchase allows you to enjoy over 2,000 U.S. national parks, forests, refuges, monuments and recreation areas, by covering the entrance and amenity fees for the rest of your life.
The Senior Pass had been $10 since 1994 but increased to $80. You can also purchase a 1 year pass for $20. Remeber that most National Park Service sites are freeonly 108 of more than 400 National Park Service sites have an entrance fee.
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~ Overview Of The Senior Pass ~
1. Where can I get a Senior Pass?
You can buy a Senior Pass in person from a participating Federal recreation site or office. See Site Locations that issue the Senior Pass .
You can buy a Senior Pass via mail order from USGS. Mail-order applicants must submit a completed application, proof of residency and age, the $90.00 . Once the application package is received the documentation will be verified and a pass, with the pass owner’s name pre-printed on it, will be issued to the applicant.
2. What is the Senior Pass?
A $80.00 lifetime pass that provides access to more than 2,000 recreation sites managed by five Federal agencies, with up to 100% of the proceeds being used to improve and enhance visitor recreation services.
For Seniors on a fixed budget the Department of Interior has created a Senior Annual Pass. The cost for the pass is $ 20.00 and it is good for one year from the date of purchase in all Federal Recreation Areas.
At many sites the Senior Pass provides the pass owner a discount on Expanded Amenity Fees .
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What Are The Discount Guidelines
The pass program is managed by six Federal agencies that operate under different regulations and have different fees. Therefore, the discount program for the Senior Pass is not handled in the same way on all Federal recreation lands.
In general discounts are honored as follows
- Individual Campsites: The discount only applies to the fee for the campsite physically occupied by the pass owner, not to any additional campsite occupied by members of the pass owner’s party.
- Campsites with Utility Hookups: If utility fees are charged separately, there is no discount. The discount may apply if the utility fee is combined with the campsite fee.
- Group Campsites and Facilities: : There is no discount for group campsites and other group facilities that charge a flat fee. If the group campsite has a per person fee rate, only the pass owner receives a discount others using the site pay the full fee.
- Guided Tours: The pass offers discounts on some guided tours. Only the pass owner receives a discount if one is offered.
- Transportation Systems:
Where Can I Get An Access Pass
You can obtain an Access Pass on store.usgs.gov/access-pass by uploading an ID and documentation of permanent disability and paying the processing fee of $10. Please upload identification that indicates that you are a citizen or permanent resident, such as a drivers license, passport, green card, or birth certificate. The ID needs to be in the name of the person obtaining the pass, not a parent in the case of a child.
You can also obtain an Access Pass in person, with proper documentation, from a participating Federal recreation site or office. See Site Locations that issue the Access Pass.
Access Passes may be obtained via mail order from USGS. Mail-order applicants for the Access Pass must submit a completed paper application, proof of residency and documentation of permanent disability , and pay the document processing fee of $10 to obtain a pass through the mail. Once the application package is received, the documentation will be verified and a pass, with the pass owner’s name pre-printed on it, will be issued to the applicant.
Access Pass applications are usually processed and shipped within 5 business days from the day they arrive at USGS. Transit time varies, and is dependent upon the service selected: USPS – typically 5-10 business days FedEx Ground – typically 3-5 business days FedEx 2nd day – typically 2 business days FedEx Overnight – typically 1 business day
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Everything You Need To Know About The National Parks Senior Pass
If you love adventure and getting outdoors, the National Parks Senior Pass may be just for you. For individuals over age 62, you can apply for an annual pass that grants you access to national parks at a discounted rate. And for true outdoor enthusiasts, the National Park Senior Citizen Lifetime Pass offers lasting value.
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What Is A National Park Lifetime Pass
National Parks have various passes you can purchase, but did you know you can buy a lifetime pass? You can, and we think its worth it for any eligible person!
National Parks are a fantastic way to see some of the best landscapes and environments the United States has to offer. Admission fees often vary from one park to another, so people often purchase an annual pass to make entry easier and cheaper throughout the year.
But imagine buying one pass the valid for the rest of your life. Keep reading to find out why we think a Lifetime Pass is an excellent value.
Lets explore!
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How Old Do I Have To Be
You must be 62 or older to qualify for a Senior Pass. You must be a U.S. citizen or permanent resident.
Seniors: Get Your $10 Lifetime Pass For National Parks Now Before Price Hike
Mount Rainier National Park was established in 1899. Photo via National Park Service.
If youre over 62 years old and love the great outdoors the time is now to get the deal of a lifetime.
Right now, older people can get a lifetime pass to visit national parks for $10. But thats going to change on August 28 with the price rising to $80.
An annual pass will cost them $20, which they can apply to the cost of a lifetime pass at a later point if they decide they want one. Follow this link for the application.
Money raised from the price increase will go to the enhancement of the national parks. Here’s a Q& A from the National Parks Service on the price increase.
Why is the price of the Senior Pass increasing?The price of the America the Beautiful The National Parks and Federal Recreational Lands Senior Pass is increasing as result of the Centennial Legislation P.L. 114-289 passed by the US Congress on December 16, 2016.When was the last time the price increased for the Senior Pass? The Senior Pass has been $10 since 1994.How much is it increasing?The lifetime Senior Pass will increase from $10 to $80.Why $80?The legislation states that the cost of the lifetime Senior Pass be equal to the cost of the annual America the Beautiful The National Parks and Federal Recreational Lands Pass, which is currently $80.
What if a senior citizen is on a fixed budget?
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The National Park Senior Pass: Lifetime Access To America The Beautiful
The National Parks are the crown jewels of the United States. With the National Park Senior Pass, seeing them all is even easier!
One of the advantages of living in the United States is the National Park System. Championed by Teddy Roosevelt, and established by Woodrow Wilson, theyâre the nationâs crown jewels. Our country has some of the most iconic parks on the planet. Thereâs the Grand Canyon, the Hawaiâi Volcanoes, and Yellowstone. Each has its own charm and personality.
With so many different national parks, it may seem impossible to see them all. If you want to, though, you have an ace in the hole â the America the Beautiful â the National Parks and Federal Recreational Lands Pass.
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How Everyone Can Visit Canadian National Parks For Free
I recently posted about how American seniors can purchase a lifetime pass to the national parks for only $10. This is an incredible bargain considering that a single visit to Yellowstone, Grand Canyon, Yosemite, or other major national parks can be $30 or more. The cost of the senior pass is going up to $80 at some point this year, so I highly advise anyone who is eligible for the pass to lock in this great deal now.
Well, it turns out theres another awesome deal for enjoying the great outdoors and this one is open to anyone, not just those 62 and over.
Canada is celebrating their 150th birthday in 2017 and to commemorate the milestone they are giving free admission to all Canadian national parks. For the entire year. To everyone.
Talk about a birthday bash.
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Can A Spouse Use A Parks Senior Lifetime Pass
Yes! Theyre not transferable, so both of you should have one just in case. Are there any other restrictions? The Senior Pass is only available to US citizens or permanent residents.
Then,can you share a senior national park pass?
Yes, traveling companions can also enter for free. The Senior Passes admit pass owner/s and passengers in a noncommercial vehicle at per-vehicle fee areas and pass owner plus three adults, not to exceed four adults, where per-person fees are charged. Aug 13, 2021
One may also ask,can you put two names on a national park pass? If you are traveling with your fiance, friend, or any family member with a different last name the extra person can be admitted with your Annual Pass as long as one of the passholders/signers is present. Both fields can be filled out at different times.
Additionally,can you share an america the beautiful pass?
There is an America the Beautiful pass for everyone 6 available pass options. Share Your Pass with Friends and Family the pass is able to have 2 owners.
What is the difference between Golden Age Passport and senior pass?
The Annual Pass replaces the National Park Pass and Golden Eagle Passport. The Senior Pass replaces the Golden Age Passport. This is a lifetime pass for US citizens or permanent residents age 62 or over. The pass provides access to, and use of, Federal recreation sites that charge an entrance or standard amenity fee.
What Is A National Park Senior Pass
A National Park Senior Pass is a lifetime pass allowing Americans age 62 and older admittance to all National Parks for a single fee.
Once a senior has purchased the pass, he or she will never have to pay an admittance fee to any covered site again.
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Other Passes To The National Parks
In addition to the National Park Senior Pass, the following passes are also available:
The splendor of our National Parks offers moving, meaningful experiences to all who experience them.
Taking advantage of the National Parks Senior Pass or any of the other available passes associated with our National Parks and Federal Sites is an investment in adventure and the experience of true majesty.
What Are The National Parks Senior Pass Benefits
The Senior Passes admit pass owner/s and passengers in a noncommercial vehicle at per-vehicle fee areas and pass owners plus three adults, not to exceed four adults, where per-person fees are charged.
So if the entrance fee is based on the vehicle everybody inside gets in free but if the entrance fee is based on a per person basis, only a total of four adults will get in free.
Also, at many sites, the Senior Passes provide the pass owner a discount on things like camping, swimming, boat launching, and guided tours.
In general discounts are honored as follows:
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Benefits Of A National Parks Senior Pass
There are a lot of unexpected benefits to your senior pass membership. Not only do you gain free entry into all of the National Parks and federal recreation areas, but there are added benefits as well.
- Travel companions also enter for free with your pass
- All owner/s and passengers in a vehicle are free
- Camping, swimming, boat launch, and guided tour fees waived in some locations
- Covers all entrance and standard amenity fees
- Discounts on some recreational activities or programs
Is There A Pass For The Disabled
The National Park Service does offer an Access Pass to United States citizens or permanent residents which is specifically for the disabled, regardless of age. There is no cost for this pass however, the individual will need to provide documentation of the permanent disability. This pass is a great benefit to those who have mobility issues yet still want to stay active and enjoy the outdoors.
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Changes To The Senior Pass
On , the price of the America the Beautiful The National Parks and Federal Recreational Lands Senior Pass increased for the first time since 1994. The additional revenue will be used to enhance the visitor experience in parks. Learn more about the changes, what they mean for you, and how the additional funds will be used.
Why did the price of the Senior Pass increase?The price of the America the Beautiful The National Parks and Federal Recreational Lands Senior Pass increased as result of the Centennial Legislation P.L. 114-289 passed by the US Congress onDecember 16, 2016.
When was the last time the price increased for the Senior Pass? The Senior Pass has been $10 since 1994.
How much did it increase?The lifetime Senior Pass increased from $10 to $80.
Why $80?The legislation states that the cost of the lifetime Senior Pass be equal to the cost of the annual America the Beautiful The National Parks and Federal Recreational Lands Pass, which is currently $80.
What if a senior citizen is on a fixed budget?The legislation also establishes an annual Senior Pass for $20. That pass is valid for one year from the date of issuance. Four annual Senior Passes purchased in prior years can be traded in for a lifetime pass. Additionally, access to the majority of National Park Service sites remains freeonly 108 of more than 400 National Park Service sites have an entrance fee.
What if I have a current Senior Pass?The current passes are lifetime passes and will remain valid.
Where To Use The Senior Pass
The Bureau of Land Management, Bureau of Reclamation, Fish and Wildlife Service, Forest Service, National Park Service, and U.S. Army Corps of Engineers honor the Senior Pass at sites where entrance or standard amenity fees are charged.
In addition, the Tennessee Valley Authority may honor the Senior Pass. Visitors are always encouraged to contact the site they plan to visit and inquire about pass acceptance before visiting.
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Are Golden Age Passes Still Valid
Yes, Golden Age Passports are valid for a lifetime.
Does the senior pass work at the Grand Canyon? Vehicles with capacity of 26 or greater will be charged a flat fee of $300. No Golden Eagle, Golden Age, Golden Access, Grand Canyon National Park Annual Pass, or National Parks and Federal Recreational Lands Passes will be accepted, and there are no exemptions for age.
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How do I get a Golden Age Passport?
The pass, which replaced the Golden Age Passport, costs $10 and never expires. Passes are easy to obtain at any federal recreation site or office. Present valid photo identification to the attendant. To qualify for a senior pass, you must be at least 62 years old, a U.S. citizen and a permanent resident.
What if I lose my America the Beautiful pass? No. Due to privacy and logistical considerations, passes cannot be replaced if lost or stolen a new Pass must be purchased.