Senior National Park Passes Increase in Price Eightfold
The joy of exploring America’s National Parks is something that millions of people experience each year. The excitement that comes from admiring these untouched natural masterpieces is something that has no age limit. Everyone from young children to older adults can get out into these gorgeous landscapes and discover what makes this country so beautiful.

For over twenty years, adults over the age of 62 have been able to purchase a lifetime pass to our nation’s national parks for the low price of $10. However, as of August 28th, the price of this lifetime pass will increase eightfold.

Therefore, any senior who has been considering purchasing a lifetime pass should act fast. There are so many perks to having one of these senior passes, even for those who don’t think they will visit the parks very frequently. Oftentimes, the low price of the lifetime pass is less than one trip to a national park.

The following information will help pass holders and those in the market for a senior pass understand what the America the Beautiful- The National Parks and Federal Recreational Lands Senior Pass is good for, why the prices have increased, and why having one of these passes is such a great thing.

America the Beautiful- The National Parks and Federal Recreational Lands Senior Pass
For many years, the National Parks Service has offered a lifetime senior pass for seniors who are interested in getting out and seeing the beauty of the United States. These passes are perfect for retirees who take to the road to see America, for seniors who want to increase the vacations they take each year, and seniors who live near national parks and enjoy being active. These passes are a great way to ensure that the most important generation can have access to the most important places in the country.

The places this senior pass can be used at include:

• National Park Service
• U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service
• Bureau of Land Management
• Bureau of Reclamation
• U.S. Forest Service
• U.S. Army Corps of Engineers

To obtain a lifetime pass, there are a few criteria that must be met. The age of eligibility for the senior pass is 62 years of age. Adults aged 62 and older must have a valid identification card and be a permanent resident or citizen of the United States. For seniors who meet these requirements, acquiring a senior pass will take just a few short steps.

Purchasing a senior pass can be done by mail or in person. Since the price of the senior pass is increasing soon, the demand for senior passes has risen greatly recently. Because of this, the best and fastest way to purchase a senior pass is to buy it at the first site visited in person. There are many sites throughout the country that will issue these passes in person. This will cut out the wait time from traditional mail services and help ensure that the senior pass is purchased at the current $10 price rather than the upcoming $80 price.

To purchase a senior pass by mail, an application must be sent to the USGS. Any applications postmarked before August 28th will have the original $10 price honored. Applications sent by mail or online currently have a three-month-long processing time. So, for seniors who would like to use this pass before three months, purchasing the pass in person is the best option.

Purchasing an America the Beautiful- The National Parks and Federal Recreational Lands Senior Pass will open a world of opportunities for seniors hoping to see the best places in this beautiful country.

About Price Increases
Since 1994, the cost for a senior pass for national parks has been $10. This price granted seniors access to all the national parks and even gave discounts to many park amenities. As of August 28th, 2017, this price will increase to $80. This huge increase, while inconvenient to those looking to purchase a pass, will go a long way in helping to keep national parks beautiful for visitors.

In a press release on their website, the National Park Service said that:

“The first $10 million collected by the National Park Service in each fiscal year from Senior Pass sales will be deposited in the Second Century Endowment for the National Park Service managed by the National Park Foundation. The foundation is the congressionally authorized philanthropic partner, or official charity, of the National Park Service. Funds within the Second Century Endowment will be expended on projects and activities approved by the Secretary of Interior to further the mission and purpose of the National Park Service. All revenues collected from sales by the National Park Service of National Parks and Federal Recreational Lands Passes, including the Senior Pass, that are in excess of $10 million will be deposited in the National Park Centennial Challenge Fund. The funds will be used for projects and programs approved by the Secretary of the Interior to the mission of the National Park Service and to enhance the visitor experience in National Park System units. Projects and programs will require at least a one-to-one match by non-federal donations.”

This means that, while the price for these passes may be much higher, the overall experience provided by the extra funds collected will make the experience even better. This extra money will go toward keeping parks beautiful and updated for generations to come.

Get a Pass to Endless Beauty
Whether purchasing a pass at the current $10 or the upcoming $80, the price is well worth the reward. Pass holders will be treated to the unlimited enjoyment of some of the most beautiful places across America. For a lifetime of exciting experiences, purchase an America the Beautiful- The National Parks and Federal Recreational Lands Senior Pass today.