Grand Canyon tour company sues over fees following Donald Trump order

A Phoenix tour company sued federal officials over higher national park fees for international visitors, arguing the charges exceed the government’s authority and are driving away customers.

Across Arizona Tours filed the lawsuit in U.S. District Court in Arizona, seeking to block a $100-per-person surcharge and higher annual pass prices for visitors who are neither U.S. citizens nor residents.

The fees took effect Jan. 1 after an executive order from President Donald Trump, according to the complaint. The surcharge applies to visitors ages 16 and older at 11 national park destinations, including the Grand Canyon, unless covered by an annual pass.

The annual pass costs $250 for nonresidents, compared with $80 for U.S. citizens and residents.

Co-owner Carole Stapleton said in a news release that she surveyed 80 to 90 potential international customers who decided against booking tours, with most citing the increased fees as a major factor, according to the suit.

The company also says residency verification requirements have added administrative work and prompted it to stop offering Grand Canyon tours to international students at Arizona State University.

The suit asks a judge to declare the charges unlawful and stop their enforcement.

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