Hawaii Volcanoes National Park to increase entrance fees

[RNCollins]

Hawaii Volcanoes National Park to increase entrance fees
https://www.travelweekly.com/Hawaii-Travel/Hawaii-Volcanoes-National-Park-to-increase-entrance-fees

By Tovin Lapan / Hawaii / Travel Weekly / travelweekly.com / Dec 13, 2019

“Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, along with other U.S national parks, will increase its entrance fees as of Jan. 1.

The new entrance fees will be $30 per vehicle and $25 per motorcycle (increases of $5) and $15 for pedestrians and cyclists (a $3 increase). The entrance fee is good for seven days.

The Tri Park Pass, an annual pass that allows visitors unlimited entry to the three fee-charging national parks in the Aloha State, Hawaii Volcanoes and Haleakala National Parks, and Puuhonua o Honaunau National Historical Park, will also increase Jan. 1, from $50 to $55.

At Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, at least 80% of entrance fees stay in the park and are devoted to spending that supports the visitor. The remaining 20% of the entrance fee income is shared with other national parks for their projects....”

Hawaii Volcanoes National Park
Photo By CO Leong/shutterstock.com

 

[mjm1]

I am glad we bought the Lifetime Park Pass when I turned 62. We have already saved a fair amount by spending $80 on that pass. We highly recommend the pass to anyone 62 or older.

Best regards.

Mike

 

[DaveNV]

I don't think the fee increases are terrible, considering the good things they do with the funds. Considering that the fee is per carload, it doesn't amount to a lot.

That said, I'm glad I have an All Access Pass, due to my walking limitations. A kind lady Ranger at Kolob Canyon at Zion National Park helped me with the paperwork, asked me some questions to confirm my disability, and gave me the Pass about ten years ago. I had not gotten the Pass paperwork done prior to our trip that year, and I was prepared to pay for the annual pass. She wouldn't take our money. We've not forgotten her. Every time we enter a Park using the Pass, as we drive away from the gate, we say "Thank you, Kolob Lady." I don't know her name, but she is always present in our minds when we use the Pass.

Dave

 

[geist1223]

We are glad we got our Passes before the price went up to $80. Yep we each got one.

 

[Rjbeach2003]

I bought the Senior Pass while visiting the Lighthouse in Kauai about 8 years ago. It has been a very good investment, visiting VNP, and National Parks on the mainland. I don't want to lose it. I tried to get my wife to buy one before prices went up, but she said she only goes with me. My argument about losing it didn't work.

 

[DeniseM]

I think it's a good idea - the park still has a lot of damage after the most recent eruptions.

*Please note: It can vary, but the senior pass is good for the occupants of one vehicle, or the pass holder + 3 guests - your wife doesn't need a separate pass.

Are there any other benefits from a Senior Pass?
Yes, traveling companions can also enter for free. The Senior Passes admit pass owner/s and passengers in a noncommercial vehicle at per-vehicle fee areas and pass owner plus three adults, not to exceed four adults, where per-person fees are charged. (Children under 16 are always admitted free.) Also, at many sites, the Senior Passes provide the pass owner (only) a discount on Expanded Amenity Fees (such as camping, swimming, boat launching, and guided tours).

More Info: https://www.nps.gov/planyourvisit/senior-pass-changes.htm

 

[bnoble]

I'd rather the parks be open access, and funded through regular federal taxes. But, even so and even with this increase, they are still well worth it. I spent a week hiking RMNP this past summer, and am just finishing up a week hiking GSMNP right now. Have also visited Volcano, and it is fantastic.

 

[Tamaradarann]

We are glad we got our Passes before the price went up to $80. Yep we each got one.

We did also, and just used it about a week ago in Volcano National Park for our vehicle full with people. We also used it in Zion National Park in September for 3 days. That was a very well spent $10 at the time.