America has some of the most spectacular national parks in the world. From our deep canyons to our tallest peaks, from the bayous in the South to the arches in the West, America is full of natural beauty. For decades, seniors have had the privilege of using these parks for a discounted rate, but things are about to change. Congress passed a law back on December 16, 2016, which will change these privileges. Many seniors are unaware of the changes that are coming soon and do not have much time to rectify this issue.
Changes
Since 1994, seniors have been able to buy a lifetime pass for ten dollars. On August 28th, 2017, this price will change to 80 dollars. The reason the change occurred is because our legislators deemed seniors should pay the same price as the annual America the Beautiful- The National Parks and Federal Recreational Lands Pass. This money will perpetuate the existence of our National Parks.
Seniors will still be able to purchase annual passes for twenty dollars if they cannot afford the upfront charge of eighty dollars. Proof of four of these annual passes will result in a lifetime pass.
Seniors with preexisting passes will not be affected and the benefits they receive from them will not change. Passes are non-refundable and will not be replaced if lost or stolen.
Eligibility and Terms
US citizens are eligible for the pass if they are over 62 years of age.
Lifetime passes will allow the senior and anyone they are accompanied with in one vehicle to visit the national park for free.
Passes can be bought at any federal recreation site. It also possible to buy them online, or receive one through the mail by visiting a USGS location. Click on this link to visit their webpage.
Many seniors have and are getting their passes before the changes. Over 250,000 seniors have applied for a lifetime pass through the mail or internet already this year. Usually only 30,000 seniors apply, so don’t be surprised if this process takes time.
Conclusion
If eligible, seniors could save 70 dollars if they buy their pass before the 28th. I was raised camping in national parks, and cannot recommend them enough. Our country is so impressive because of the variety one can find here. Geothermal activity at Yellowstone, arches and Utah rocks, glaciers in Montana, swamps in the Everglades, these are just some of the options. My state, Colorado, is full of 14,000 foot Rocky Mountain peaks with abundant wildlife, rivers, waterfalls, lakes, wildflowers, and much, much more. Seniors, get your pass now. This country has so much to offer, and for only ten dollars you are guaranteed access to over 2,000 national parks. It will be the best ten dollars you ever spent.
Article written by Nick Schaller with Senior Directory, LLC
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