Quaking aspens, elk in rut, cute critters, and native wildflowers are all great reasons to get out to our National Parks this year. Many of Colorado’s most treasured parks are close enough to be visited during a day trip.
To encourage visitors to explore America's natural beauty, rich history and culture, the Secretary of the Interior announces Fee Free Days each year. Entry fees into national park sites will be waived on the following dates in 2018.
Free entrance to national parks in 2018:
• Jan. 15, Martin Luther King, Jr. Day
• Apr. 21, the first day of National Park Week
• Sept. 22, National Public Lands Day
• Nov. 11, Veterans Day.
Keep in mind the National Park Service has reduced number of free-access days at National Parks from 10 to 4 in 2018. So it's important to get them on your calendar.
Also note, as of August 28, 2017, The National Parks and Federal Recreational Lands Lifetime Senior Pass increased for the first time since 1994 from $10 to $80 The additional revenue will be used to enhance the visitor experience in parks.
Before the sticker shock sets in, Annual Senior Passes are $20. That pass is valid for one year from the date of issuance and Four annual Senior Passes purchased in prior years can be traded in for a lifetime pass.
If you are a current Lifetime pass holder, it is still valid and all of the benefits stay the same. Access to the majority of National Park Service sites remains free—only 118 of 417 National Park Service sites have an entrance fee.
Below is a list of Colorado Parks:
https://www.nps.gov/state/co/index.htm
For more detailed information on Park passes:
https://www.nps.gov/planyourvisit/senior-pass-changes.htm?utm_source=feesandpasses&utm_medium=website&utm_campaign=senior_pass