CATEGORIES
CATEGORIESRenowned western novelist Wallace Stegner called America’s National Parks “the best idea America ever had.” From the North Cascades in Washington to Florida’s Everglades, vast and varied natural beauty is safeguarded from urban sprawl and private interests because of federal protection; we’re all for it at Active Junky.
“America the Beautiful” pass holders access 58 national parks and more than 2,000 federal recreation sites. From car-camping a stone’s throw from the thoroughfare to pitching tents in remote BLM lands, snagging an Annual Pass to get you in is a brilliant idea. Here are five reasons to dangle a National Parks Annual Pass from your rearview mirror. (Bonus reason: it’s more useful than fuzzy dice.)
Rocky Mountain National Park, Colorado
While the $80 Annual Pass is steep for a single entrance, compare that to $25 per car at the Grand Canyon and $20 at Rocky Mountain National Park. Much like buying a season ski pass versus purchasing day lift tickets, you break even on the Annual Pass in only four trips.
Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Tennesee
This is the innate desire felt at all-you-can-eat spreads: get your money’s worth! Unlike pounding down a third helping of Szechuan chicken simply because you can, an "all-you-can-see" pass is a rational, healthy and completely grease-free decision.
Yosemite National Park, California
National parks require upkeep. From trail maintenance to overarching conservation efforts, feel proud to underwrite the same fight John Muir and Teddy Roosevelt discussed at Yosemite in 1903.
Crater Lake National Park, Oregon
With the 2015 pass, access to the nation’s 58 national parks is the start. While more than enough to satisfy an adventurous spirit for several lifetimes, Bureau of Land Management tracts, additional campgrounds and recreation lands are all at your fingertips, too.
Arches National Park, Utah
Bring the group and everyone wins thanks to your generosity and foresight. Brownie points accrue, as flashing your Annual Pass will cover admission for up to four people. Consider it a VIP ticket to Mother Nature’s most exclusive dance party.
