National Park Service to cut down amount of fee-free days in 2018
Dec 13, 2017, 10:31 AM
FILE - This Feb. 22, 2005 photo shows the North Rim of Grand Canyon in Arizona. (AP Photo/Rick Hossman,File)
(AP Photo/Rick Hossman,File)
PHOENIX — Outdoor enthusiasts will have less free days at the nation’s national parks, such as the Grand Canyon, in 2018.
Free admission to the national parks has been designated to four days for the public all of next year – a drastic decrease from 16 free days in 2016 — during next year.
According to National Park Service officials, cutting down on the amount of free days allows parks to improve facilities and address maintenance issues while enhancing the visitor experience.
The four entrance-fee free days are Jan. 15, April 21, Sept. 22 and Nov. 11.
“National parks connect all of us with our country’s amazing nature, culture and history,” National Park Service Deputy Director Michael T. Reynolds said in a press release.
“The days that we designate as fee-free for national parks mark opportunities for the public to participate in service projects, enjoy ranger-led programs, or just spend time with family and friends exploring these diverse and special places.”
Reynolds said he hopes fee-free days help encourage people to utilize the park system.
Most of the nation’s national parks have entrance fees. Out of 417 parks, 118 normally have an entrance fee.
Park goers will need to plan for extra expenses that aren’t part of the free admission days. Activities such as camping, boat launches, transportation and special tours are not included.
