New Fee Structure for Foreign Visitors to US National Parks Sparks Debate
A recent announcement by Interior Secretary Doug Burgum has introduced a $100-per-person charge for foreign visitors to popular US national parks, including Yellowstone, Grand Canyon, and Yosemite, effective January 1. This move has sparked concern among tourist-oriented businesses, which fear it may discourage international travelers, while supporters argue it will generate much-needed revenue for cash-strapped parks.
According to Mark Howser, owner of the Whistling Swan Motel near Glacier National Park in Montana, approximately 15% of his customers are foreigners. He believes the additional $100-per-person charge, on top of the existing $35 per vehicle entrance fee, will deter international visitors. “It’s a sure-fire way of discouraging people from visiting Glacier,” Howser said.
File – People hike at Glacier National Park in Montana. (AP Photo/Beth J. Harpaz, File)
Impact on Local Businesses and Visitors
Bryan Batchelder, a Yellowstone tour operator, notes that the new charge represents a significant increase for the approximately 30% of his clients who are foreigners. While he acknowledges that the charge may not deter all international visitors, he wonders if they will still choose to visit national parks. “They’ll probably still come to the country, but will they visit national parks?” Batchelder asked.
The new fee structure will apply to
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