Honolulu Star-Advertiser

Wednesday, December 4, 2024 80° Today's Paper


BriefsFeatures

National Parks lifetime pass to rise 700% in price for seniors

COURTESY NATIONAL PARK SERVICE

The Senior Pass is available to U.S. citizens and permanent residents, and covers the pass holder and their traveling companions at parks that charge a per-vehicle entrance fee.

Seniors age 62 and older who enjoy visiting America’s natural wonders and historic sites should act now to purchase a $10 lifetime pass. Thanks to Congress, the cost will jump to $80 effective Aug. 28.

A new $20 annual senior pass also will become available at that time.

The lifetime Senior Pass, which has been $10 since 1994, provides entrance to all national monuments, forests, recreation sites and national parks, including Haleakala and Hawaii Volcanoes, which last month increased their entrance fees to $25 per vehicle.

The Senior Pass is available to U.S. citizens and permanent residents, and covers the pass holder and their traveling companions at parks that charge a per-vehicle entrance fee. At sites that charge a per-person fee, the pass covers the holder plus three adults. (Children under 16 are always admitted free.)

Other benefits include discounts on some amenity fees charged for camping, swimming, boat launch, guided tours and other services.

Passes can be purchased at Haleakala National Park on Maui, Kilauea Point National Wildlife Refuge on Kauai, and Hawaii Volcanoes National Park and Pu‘uhonua O Honaunau National Historical Park on Hawaii island. Passes also can be ordered online or by mail for an additional $10 processing fee. Proof of age and residency or citizenship are required.

Those already holding senior lifetime passes, known as Golden Age Passports, won’t be affected by the fee increase.

Visit store.usgs.gov/senior-pass for more information.

By participating in online discussions you acknowledge that you have agreed to the Terms of Service. An insightful discussion of ideas and viewpoints is encouraged, but comments must be civil and in good taste, with no personal attacks. If your comments are inappropriate, you may be banned from posting. Report comments if you believe they do not follow our guidelines. Having trouble with comments? Learn more here.