Get your America the Beautiful Park Pass at REI for year-round access to national parks and federal recreation sites across the country ⛰🌄⛺️🌅
The America the Beautiful Pass, also known as the National Parks Pass, is your gateway to exploring over 2,000 federal recreation sites across the United States. This handy pass saves you money and lets you focus on creating adventures instead of paying entrance fees. Keep reading for everything you need to know to get out and enjoy our nation’s beautiful parks and public lands.
Where to Buy the Pass
One of the most convenient places to purchase the America the Beautiful Pass is from REI. The outdoor gear co-op sells the standard annual pass online or in their retail stores. REI members can even earn a dividend from their purchase.
When you buy from REI, you’ll also be supporting the National Park Foundation, as they donate a portion of each sale. Passes purchased directly from the parks or other federal agencies provide important funding as well.
Pass Options and Eligibility
The America the Beautiful Pass is valid for one year from the month of purchase. It covers entrance fees for the pass holder and accompanying passengers in a single standard vehicle.
Seniors aged 62+ are eligible for discounted lifetime and annual senior passes. Current U.S. military members and dependents can obtain free annual passes with proper military identification. Disabled citizens are also eligible for free lifetime passes.
Families should take advantage of the Every Kid in a Park initiative, which provides free annual 4th grade passes for students and guests. Volunteers can also earn a free one-year pass after contributing 250 service hours.
What Does the Pass Include?
The America the Beautiful Pass grants you access to national parks, forests, wildlife refuges, and lands managed by the National Park Service, U.S. Forest Service, Fish and Wildlife Service, Bureau of Land Management, and Army Corps of Engineers.
It covers entrance fees and standard amenity fees like camping and boat launches. Some concession fees for tours, parking, games, rentals or permits may have additional costs.
The pass is non-transferable and non-refundable. It does not include expanded amenity fees for things like guided hikes, equipment rentals or park attractions. Usage of the pass is subject to each site’s rules and regulations.
Is it Worth the Cost?
For most park-goers, the $80 annual pass easily pays for itself in a summer of adventures. Entrance fees at popular national parks like Yellowstone and Yosemite are $35 per vehicle. Visiting just two parks makes the pass worthwhile.
Even better, your pass lets you spontaneously stop to explore new parks and recreation areas along your journeys. From seashores to historic sites, you can satisfy your curiosity without draining your wallet in fees.
For avid campers, hikers and road-trippers, the unlimited access is well worth the annual investment. Stash your pass in the glove compartment and go wild on those national park expeditions!
Frequently Asked Questions
Is America the Beautiful pass same as National Park Pass?
Yes, these names refer to the same annual pass that provides entrance to federal recreation lands across the U.S.
Does REI sell senior national park passes?
No, senior passes must be obtained directly through federal land agencies. REI only sells the standard annual America the Beautiful pass.
Where is America the Beautiful pass sold?
The pass can be purchased at national parks, online through REI or USGS, and some retail partners. REI offers added convenience and gives back to conservation.
Is the annual pass for national parks worth it?
Absolutely! For only $80, you get year-round access to over 2,000 incredible sites. It pays for itself quickly compared to individual entrance fees.
Does America the Beautiful Pass cover all national parks?
Yes, the pass covers entrance fees for all National Park Service sites across the U.S. and territories. This includes national parks, monuments, historic sites, seashores, lakeshores, battlefields and more.
Can two people share an America the Beautiful Pass?
Yes, the pass is transferable and two signatures can be added to the back. However, starting in 2024, only one signature will be allowed.
Is America the Beautiful Pass the same as Golden Pass?
The Golden Age and Golden Access passes have been replaced by the new senior and access passes with the same benefits. The Golden Eagle is now the Military Pass.
What are the benefits of the National Park Pass?
The key benefits are unlimited access and savings on entrance fees for federal recreation sites. Plus, you can be spontaneous and explore more parks without worrying about costs.
Does America the Beautiful Pass cover national parks?
Yes, the pass covers entrance fees to all National Park Service sites, including famous national parks like Yellowstone, Yosemite, Grand Canyon and Acadia.
What does America the Beautiful pass not cover?
It does not cover concessionaire fees, expanded amenity fees or state parks that are not federal lands. Usage is subject to each site’s rules and restrictions.
Get out there and explore America the Beautiful! The annual pass is your ticket to journey through incredible national parks, forests, wildlife refuges and scenic recreation areas. Purchase yours hassle-free through REI today.