The Trump National Park Pass has sparked significant controversy and legal challenges, as the National Park Service has introduced a new design featuring the face of President Trump. This change, which has been met with criticism from environmental groups and the public, aims to commemorate the president's tenure while also generating income through the sale of these passes.
The 2026 America the Beautiful National Park Pass, traditionally featuring images from the National Parks Foundation's annual photo contest, now includes a portrait of President Trump. This decision has led to a lawsuit filed by an environmental group in December 2025. The lawsuit argues that the new design violates federal regulations and the spirit of the National Parks System.
Critics of the new pass have expressed concerns over the use of the president's image, claiming that it detracts from the natural beauty and historic significance of the national parks. Some visitors have taken to covering up Trump's face with stickers, an act that the National Park Service has warned could void the pass.
The National Park Service has updated its policy to discourage visitors from defacing the pass by covering Trump's image with stickers, as this could result in fines or voided passes. The controversy has also highlighted political tensions, as Democrats have voiced objections to the administration's decision to cut free admission to the parks on certain federal holidays.
The new pass has also introduced a $100 per-person surcharge for non-residents who opt for the higher-priced pass at 11 of the most visited national parks, adding to the financial burden on visitors. This move has further fueled the controversy, as critics argue that the parks should remain accessible to all, regardless of political affiliations or financial means.
Despite the ongoing lawsuits and public backlash, the National Park Service has continued to sell the new passes. Some visitors, however, have found creative ways to protest, such as by using stickers to cover the president's face. The National Park Service has explicitly warned that these actions could invalidate the passes, leading to potential fines or other penalties. Although the controversy continues to unfold, it remains to be seen how the courts will rule on the legality of the new pass and whether the National Park Service will make any further changes in response to the public's concerns. The ongoing debate highlights the complex interplay between politics, conservation, and public access to national treasures, underscoring the need for a balanced approach that respects both historical and natural heritage.
