2026 NATIONAL PARK FEE CHANGE
As of January 1, 2026, the National Park Service implemented a non-U.S. resident surcharge for visitors at 11 of the most-visited national parks in the United States, including nearby Bryce Canyon National Park and Zion National Park.
Non-U.S. residents age 16 and older must pay a $100 non-resident fee in addition to the standard entrance fee at both Bryce Canyon and Zion national parks, unless they have the America the Beautiful Non-Resident Annual Pass ($250). The America the Beautiful Non-Resident Annual Pass covers the non-U.S. resident fee for the pass holder and all passengers in one non-commercial vehicle.
For visitors entering as part of a commercial group, the annual pass will cover the non-resident fee for four people.
A few things to keep in mind:
- If you are an international visitor, consider an America the Beautiful Non-Resident Annual Pass for $250, which covers the passholder and all passengers in one non-commercial vehicle.
- At high-traffic parks like Zion, rangers check every vehicle and often complete pass purchases at the gate. Visitors should prepare for longer entrance station lines, especially during peak season.
- Standard entrance fees remain unchanged for U.S. citizens (and green card holders with valid ID).
Key Things to Know About the $100 Surcharge
(Specific to Bryce Canyon and Zion National Park)
The $100 surcharge per person applies to non-U.S residents aged 16 and older at Bryce Canyon and Zion, in addition to the standard entrance fee.
Use the button below (information provided by Visit Utah) to find answers to frequent questions about the surcharge.
ZION NATIONAL PARK ZION-MT. CARMEL TUNNEL LARGE VEHICLE RESTRICTIONS
Beginning June 7, 2026, Zion National Park will enforce existing size and weight limits on the Zion-Mt. Carmel Highway from Canyon Junction to the East Entrance.
*Please Note: These restrictions apply to the entire section of highway between Canyon Junction and the East Entrance.
What's Changing?
The affected highway area includes many tight curves, narrow passes, and old bridges that are not built for larger vehicles. Beginning June 7, 2026, vehicles larger than 35 feet 9 inches in length, 7 feet 10 inches in width, 11 feet 4 inches in height, or 50,000 pounds will no longer be permitted on the Zion Mt. Carmel Highway. This replaces the old paid escort/tunnel permit system, which goes away entirely on June 7th.
Why the Change?
The road was originally completed in the early 1930s and was widened in 1960. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, the historic tunnels and bridges weren't designed for modern RVs and tour coaches.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I still get to the park? Yes! Large vehicles can still enter via the South Entrance and access Zion Canyon.
- Are there alternate routes? Yes, the alternate routes add a little drive time, but include some great scenery along the way. (map below)
- So what should I do? Measure your vehicle ahead of time (size guide below) and plan ahead for the scenic route between parks.
- Does this apply to trucks and trailers? Yes. Combined vehicles (truck + trailer) cannot exceed 26 feet from hitch to rear axle and 50 feet overall.
AREA FIRE RESTRICTIONS AND WILDFIRE PREVENTION INFORMATION
With a winter that brought less snow than usual, Utah is preparing for fire season and asking visitors to help us preserve our beautiful landscapes by being Fire Wise while visiting. As the season continues, we will update this page with current fire restrictions.
Use the button included below to learn more and find current fire restrictions in the state of Utah.
