Both Rocky Mountain National Park and Yosemite National Park are contemplating whether or not to raise admission fees in order to keep up with improvements that are necessary because of the environmental impact caused by constant visitors.

In Yosemite, fees affected would be the seven-day single vehicle pass, which would increase from $20 to $30, and the annual pass, which would increase from $40 to $60. The news of the increase at Yosemite was shared through a press release on its website.

As part of its explanation, Yosemite officials mentioned how admission fees have not changed since 1997, yet according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor and Statistics, $20 in 1997 is equivalent to $29.64 in 2014. The money gained from increased fees would go to improving park facilities such as the visitor service buildings, as well as park programs, transportation services, and resource protection.

Yosemite is also in the process of assessing whether or not campground fees are high enough to maintain the area and complete necessary repairs. A 30-day public engagement period began on October 20 and will run through November 20. To provide feedback, simply follow the link to the press release included above.

At Rocky Mountain National Park, a $20 single-day pass was unveiled, as well as an increase from $20 to $30 for the week-long pass. The park is also proposing an increase for the annual park pass to $50, and to $60 by 2017. Campground fees may also increase from $20 to $26 per night in 2016.

“We are committed to keeping Rocky Mountain National Park affordable and we also want to provide visitors with the best possible experience,” Vaughn Baker, park superintendent, said in a press release. “We feel that our proposed fee changes are still an incredible value when considering other family and recreational experiences one can enjoy. Plus, 80 percent of those funds stay right here in Rocky to benefit visitors. As we celebrate Rocky’s Centennial, these funds are critical as we move forward into the next one hundred years.”

Rocky Mountain is accepting feedback through December 1. Again, visit the press release link above to submit comments.

Image courtesy of SashaBuzko