Everglades Joins Zion, Bryce Canyon, Yosemite, Glacier National Park and others in Offering Free Access to Iconic U.S. National Parks in 2026! with Fee-Free Days, Know More Now

The beauty of America’s national parks is no secret. From towering mountains to endless canyons and from lush wetlands to ancient forests, U.S. national parks offer some of the most spectacular natural landscapes on Earth. In 2026, visitors will have even more reason to celebrate these breathtaking locations, as Everglades National Park joins Zion National Park, Bryce Canyon National Park, Yosemite National Park, Glacier National Park and others in offering fee-free days to the public. These fee-free days, introduced under the America First Policy, will allow U.S. residents to access these iconic parks without paying the usual entrance fees.

This new initiative promises to make America’s national parks more accessible than ever before, giving people across the country an affordable way to experience the wonders of nature. For many, it is the perfect opportunity to explore parks they may not have visited before or to return to their favourite spots without worrying about entrance costs. In this article, we’ll explore what fee-free days mean, which parks are included and why this initiative is such an exciting development for U.S. national parks.

What are Fee-Free Days?

Fee-free days are specific days throughout the year when visitors can enter U.S. national parks and monuments without paying the usual entrance fees. These special days are typically reserved for significant holidays or other important dates in U.S. history, but in 2026, the rules are changing. While historically these days were open to all visitors, the America First Policy now designates them exclusively for U.S. citizens and permanent residents. This shift prioritises those who contribute to the parks through tax funding, offering them the chance to visit the parks for free, while non-resident visitors will still need to pay regular fees or surcharges.

The policy aims to make U.S. National Parks more accessible to American families, while ensuring that international visitors contribute their fair share to the upkeep of these cherished spaces. The America First Policy, which drives these changes, seeks to promote the value of these parks to U.S. residents while balancing the costs of maintaining national landmarks. As a result, visitors can enjoy free access to some of the most iconic landscapes in the world, including the Everglades, Zion, Bryce Canyon, Yosemite and Glacier National Park, on select dates in 2026.

Which Parks Are Included in Fee-Free Days?

The list of national parks included in the fee-free days offer a rare chance to see these awe-inspiring places without worrying about entrance fees. Among the most visited and famous parks are:

• Everglades National Park: Spanning 1.5 million acres of subtropical wilderness in Florida, Everglades National Park is home to rare species like the American alligator and the West Indian Manatee. Visitors can explore the park’s diverse wetlands, woodlands and coastal ecosystems through walking trails, boat tours and even ranger-led programs. The park’s unique landscape is crucial for the conservation of freshwater and wildlife, making it one of the most environmentally significant parks in the U.S.
• Zion National Park: Zion, located in southern Utah, is famous for its towering red rock cliffs and narrow canyons. Among the park’s most popular hikes are Angels Landing, with its panoramic views from the top and The Narrows, a stunning river hike that takes visitors through the Virgin River. Zion is a hiker’s paradise, offering everything from easy walks to challenging climbs. It’s one of the most sought-after parks for outdoor adventurers and nature lovers alike.
• Bryce Canyon National Park: Known for its unique hoodoos—tall, thin spires of rock—Bryce Canyon offers one of the most visually striking landscapes in the world. Visitors can enjoy hiking and scenic drives, as well as breathtaking views of the park’s rock formations, especially at sunrise and sunset. Bryce Canyon is a prime destination for stargazing, with some of the clearest night skies in the U.S.
• Yosemite National Park: Yosemite is famous for its granite cliffs, waterfalls and ancient sequoia trees. Iconic landmarks such as El Capitan and Half Dome draw rock climbers and hikers from around the world. Yosemite’s diverse ecosystems offer opportunities for wildlife viewing and the park’s Yosemite Valley is a must-see for anyone visiting. Whether you’re hiking the Mist Trail to Vernal Fall or simply enjoying the view from Glacier Point, Yosemite offers a wealth of unforgettable experiences.
• Glacier National Park: Known as the “Crown of the Continent”, Glacier National Park is located in northern Montana. The park’s snow-capped peaks, glacial lakes and wildlife-filled valleys make it one of the most scenic parks in the U.S. The famous Going-to-the-Sun Road offers a breathtaking drive through the park, while numerous hiking trails provide access to its hidden corners. Glacier is also home to incredible wildlife, including grizzly bears, mountain goats and bighorn sheep.

These parks are just the tip of the iceberg. The fee-free days apply to dozens of national parks across the U.S., from the lush rainforests of the Great Smoky Mountains to the rugged wilderness of Grand Teton. Each park offers its own unique experience, but they all share one thing in common: they represent the very best of America’s natural heritage.

Fee-Free Days Schedule for 2026

Under the new America First Policy, the 2026 Fee-Free Days are scheduled on key holidays and anniversaries, giving U.S. residents a chance to visit these parks without paying the usual entrance fees. The following dates will be the fee-free days for U.S. citizens and permanent residents:

• February 16, 2026 – President’s Day
• May 25, 2026 – Memorial Day
• June 14, 2026 – Flag Day / President Trump’s Birthday
• July 3–5, 2026 – Independence Day Weekend
• August 25, 2026 – 110th Anniversary of the National Park Service
• September 17, 2026 – Constitution Day
• October 27, 2026 – Theodore Roosevelt’s Birthday
• November 11, 2026 – Veterans Day

These dates are designed to coincide with national holidays and historic moments in U.S. history. They will give American families the opportunity to explore parks at no cost, making national parks more accessible and encouraging domestic tourism. These fee-free days will also serve as a reminder of the importance of preserving and celebrating the natural beauty that America has to offer.

The Impact of the America First Policy

The America First Policy, which is central to the fee-free initiative, prioritises U.S. citizens and residents when it comes to public lands access. This policy aims to ensure that American taxpayers, who fund the maintenance of these parks through federal taxes, get the benefit of reduced or waived fees. The new fee structure allows the National Park Service to continue providing high-quality experiences and conservation efforts, while non-resident visitors will still contribute through regular fees.

This shift reflects a larger trend of focusing on domestic tourism and ensuring that American families have easy access to the places that make the country unique. It also serves to highlight the national importance of these sites, which are home to crucial wildlife, diverse ecosystems and cultural heritage.

For those interested in exploring the US National Parks, the fee-free days offer a cost-effective way to experience some of the best natural landscapes in the world. Whether it’s the lush wetlands of the Everglades, the red rock formations of Zion, or the serene beauty of Glacier National Park, these parks have something for everyone. They are not only places to visit but also places to connect with nature, learn about environmental conservation and reflect on the cultural significance of preserving these wild places for future generations.

Why This Matters for Travelers

The 2026 fee-free days offer a fantastic opportunity for Americans to enjoy what many tourists around the world come to see: the grandeur of U.S. national parks. From Yosemite’s towering cliffs to the unique rock formations in Bryce Canyon, the country’s natural wonders are ready to be explored. For families and outdoor enthusiasts, these fee-free days mean that trips to iconic national parks are within reach without the burden of expensive entrance fees.

Moreover, these changes aim to strike a balance between accessibility and sustainability, allowing the National Park Service to continue preserving these sites while making them more accessible to those who fund them.

Conclusion

Everglades National Park, Zion National Park, Bryce Canyon, Yosemite, Glacier and many more U.S. parks are opening their doors wider in 2026 with the introduction of fee-free days under the America First Policy. These free access days not only make it easier for U.S. residents to explore the wonders of these parks but also reflect a commitment to preserving these iconic landscapes for future generations. Whether you are a seasoned hiker or a first-time visitor, 2026 promises to be an exciting year to discover the best of America’s natural beauty, with fee-free days offering the chance to connect with nature and experience the majesty of these protected spaces.

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Guadalupe Mountains Joins Yellowstone, Yosemite, Grand Canyon, Everglades and Zion in The Ultimate Dream Team of US National Parks That Will Leave You Speechless!

Guadalupe Mountains joins Yellowstone, Yosemite, Grand Canyon, Everglades, and Zion National Park in the ultimate dream team of U.S. natural wonders. These parks are not just destinations; they represent the best of America’s landscapes. From the towering peaks of the Guadalupe Mountains to the geothermal marvels of Yellowstone, every park offers something truly unforgettable. Yosemite’s granite cliffs, Grand Canyon’s vast canyons, Everglades’ wetland ecosystems, and Zion’s sandstone cliffs unite to form the ultimate collection of natural beauty. Together, these parks create an adventure that will leave you speechless.

Whether you’re hiking, taking in breathtaking views, or exploring unique ecosystems like Guadalupe Mountains, the combination of these parks is an experience like no other. This dream team is not just about breathtaking landscapes; it’s about discovering the most awe-inspiring places on Earth, all in one journey.

Guadalupe Mountains National Park: Texas’ Hidden Gem

Nestled in the heart of West Texas, Guadalupe Mountains National Park is a place where desert landscapes meet towering peaks. This park is home to Guadalupe Peak, the highest point in Texas, standing at 8,751 feet (2,667 meters). It offers hikers the opportunity to stand at the very top of the Lone Star State and take in panoramic views that stretch for miles.

Guadalupe Mountains isn’t just about stunning vistas. It holds a hidden treasure of fossilized reefs, dating back to 260-270 million years ago. These fossils make it the largest exposed fossil reef on Earth, which is a testament to the area’s ancient geological history. Beyond the fossil beds, the park boasts diverse ecosystems, ranging from desert scrublands at lower elevations to alpine forests high in the mountains. Hiking here is a treat for nature lovers and adventure seekers, with over 80 miles of trails offering everything from easy walks to challenging backcountry routes.

Yellowstone National Park: The World’s First National Park

When you think of Yellowstone, one word comes to mind — iconic. As the first national park in the world, established in 1872, it has become a symbol of natural beauty and wildlife conservation. Located in Wyoming, Montana, and Idaho, Yellowstone is vast, covering over 2.2 million acres. What makes it truly unique are its geothermal wonders. Imagine standing next to the world-famous Old Faithful geyser, erupting in a spectacular display of hot water and steam, or exploring hot springs and bubbling mud pots that seem straight out of a science fiction movie.

But it’s not just the geothermal features that make Yellowstone special. The park is home to a diverse array of wildlife, including bison, elk, wolves, and grizzly bears. It’s a place where nature thrives in its purest form, with ecosystems that range from dense forests to open meadows, making it a paradise for photographers, adventurers, and nature enthusiasts.

Yosemite National Park: A Masterpiece of Granite and Waterfalls

Situated in California, Yosemite National Park is a true masterpiece of nature. Known for its granite cliffs, including the towering El Capitan and Half Dome, Yosemite is a place where rock and water combine to create some of the most beautiful landscapes on Earth. The park is also famous for its waterfalls, like Yosemite Falls, which is one of the tallest in North America.

Yosemite is not just a visual spectacle but also an ecological treasure. The park is home to giant sequoia trees, including the Grizzly Giant, one of the oldest and largest living trees on the planet. With over 750,000 acres of wilderness, Yosemite offers a wealth of hiking trails, from easy walks around glacial lakes to strenuous climbs up Half Dome for those brave enough to reach the summit.

Grand Canyon National Park: A Geological Wonder

Grand Canyon National Park is one of the most recognisable landmarks in the world. Carved by the Colorado River, the Grand Canyon is vast, stretching 277 miles long, 18 miles wide, and more than 1 mile deep in some places. The park’s stunning views, colourful rock layers, and dramatic cliffs reveal millions of years of geological history.

What makes the Grand Canyon so special is how it allows visitors to witness the incredible forces of nature that shaped this landscape over time. From the South Rim to the North Rim, there are countless opportunities for hiking, rafting, and photography. Whether you’re taking in the views from the edge of the canyon or descending into its depths on the Bright Angel Trail, the Grand Canyon is an experience you’ll never forget.

Acadia National Park: Maine’s Coastal Paradise

Located in Maine, Acadia National Park offers a unique blend of mountain peaks, coastal cliffs, and wooded trails. The park’s Cadillac Mountain is the highest point on the U.S. Atlantic coast, and it’s the first place in the U.S. to see the sunrise. Whether you’re hiking up Cadillac Mountain, exploring the park’s carriage roads, or walking along the Rockefeller’s original carriage paths, Acadia offers a diverse range of activities.

Acadia is not just about mountains and coastline; it’s also home to diverse wildlife. From moose to peregrine falcons, the park’s ecosystems support a variety of animal species, making it a haven for birdwatchers and wildlife enthusiasts. Whether you’re hiking, biking, or simply soaking in the view from the coast, Acadia provides a perfect blend of natural beauty and peaceful solitude.

Everglades National Park: Florida’s Wetland Wonder

Everglades National Park, located in Florida, is one of the most biodiverse and ecologically important national parks in the U.S. It is the largest subtropical wilderness in North America and is home to a variety of endangered species, including the Florida panther, American crocodile, and West Indian manatee. The Everglades is a massive wetland system that includes sawgrass marshes, mangrove forests, and cypress swamps.

The park’s ecosystem is supported by the slow-moving waters of the Everglades River, which stretches from Lake Okeechobee to the Florida Bay. Visitors can explore the park’s diverse landscapes via airboat rides, kayaking, or on foot along nature trails. Whether you’re exploring the wetlands, birdwatching, or taking a ranger-led tour, Everglades National Park offers a one-of-a-kind experience.

Zion National Park: Utah’s Desert Beauty

Zion National Park in Utah is a true desert paradise. Known for its towering sandstone cliffs, narrow slot canyons, and the winding Virgin River, Zion is a place where nature’s raw beauty is on full display. The park is famous for its scenic vistas and dramatic canyon walls, which rise more than 2,000 feet above the floor of the canyon.

Zion offers a range of hiking opportunities, including the famous Angels Landing and The Narrows. For those seeking a more leisurely experience, the park also offers scenic drives and shuttle tours, which provide stunning views of the park’s unique rock formations. Whether you’re a hiker, photographer, or simply someone looking to connect with nature, Zion’s beauty will leave you speechless.

Why U.S. National Parks Are a Must-Visit

The U.S. national parks are more than just beautiful destinations; they are living landscapes, each with a unique story to tell. From the geothermal wonders of Yellowstone to the towering peaks of the Guadalupe Mountains and the canyon views of the Grand Canyon, these parks provide visitors with the opportunity to experience the best of nature. Whether you’re hiking, wildlife watching, or simply taking in the scenery, U.S. national parks offer something for everyone.

These parks are not just places to visit but places to protect. They are national treasures that preserve the beauty, biodiversity, and history of the United States. As you explore these breathtaking landscapes, you’ll be reminded of the importance of preserving these natural wonders for future generations. So, whether you’re planning a weekend getaway or a month-long adventure, be sure to include a visit to one of the U.S. national parks on your travel list.

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