Free admission to Yellowstone Park Aug. 15 & 16
by Yellowstone National Park
August 10, 2009
Come enjoy Yellowstone National Park’s beauty, wonder, and inspiration with free entrance on August 15 and 16.
Established by an act of Congress on March 1, 1872, Yellowstone National Park is the first and oldest national park in the world. Within Yellowstone are some 10,000 hot springs and geysers - more than anywhere else on the planet. An outstanding mountain wildland with clean air and water, Yellowstone is often referenced as "America’s Serengeti" and is home to the grizzly bear and wolf, and free-ranging herds of bison and elk.
Whether you’re an avid hiker, birdwatcher or photographer, or just seeking a relaxing or educational experience, Yellowstone has something for you. Take advantage of this free entrance weekend and take in the sites at Yellowstone or at one of the other 146 participating national parks for family fun, fresh air, and opportunities to learn about our great country.
Fees that are being waived include entrance fees, commercial tour fees and transportation entrance fees. The waiver is good for entrance on Saturday and Sunday, August 15 and 16 only. Visitors entering the park after August 16 will be required to pay the entrance fee. The waiver does not include other fees collected in advance or by contractors - such as fees charged for camping, reservations, tours and use of concessions.
Many visitors to America’s national parks enjoyed free entrance on June 20 and 21, and again on July 18 and 19. These "fee free" weekends were established by Secretary of the Interior Ken Salazar to encourage Americans seeking affordable vacations to visit our national treasures. "During these tough economic times, our national parks provide opportunities for affordable vacations for families. I encourage everyone to visit one of our nation’s crown jewels this summer and especially to take advantage of the three free-admission weekends. National Parks also serve as powerful economic engines for local communities and we hope that promoting visitation will give a small shot in the arm to businesses in the area," he said.
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