As a Black person living in America, I understand the importance of finding ways to save money while still being able to enjoy all the beauty and wonder that this country has to offer. So when I discovered the America the Beautiful Pass, I knew it was something I had to share with my community. This pass grants access to over 2,000 federal recreation sites across the country, including national parks, wildlife refuges, and forests, and can save you hundreds of dollars in fees. Let me break it down for you. First and foremost, let’s talk about the cost. The America the Beautiful Pass is $80 for a whole year’s worth of access to these federal recreation sites. Now, I know that might sound like a lot upfront, but bear with me. A typical national park individual entrance fee is around $35, and some parks even charge per car, which can easily add up to three times that amount. With the pass, you can visit as many sites as you want for an entire year without paying a dime more. Plus, the pass covers the cost of all passengers in your car or for members of your immediate family (or someone you’re traveling with). Now, let’s get into some specifics. One thing I really appreciate about the America the Beautiful Pass is that it’s flexible. You can use it for day trips, weekend getaways, or a full-on road trip across the country. It’s really up to you. And with over 2,000 sites to choose from, there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re into hiking, wildlife viewing, history, or just want to marvel at some of the most stunning natural landscapes in the world, this pass has got you covered. So let’s take a look at some of the sites you can access with the America the Beautiful Pass. First up, we have Acadia National Park in Maine. This park encompasses over 49,000 acres of breathtaking coastline, forests, mountains, and lakes. The possibilities for outdoor adventure are endless, from hiking the rugged coastline to kayaking on pristine lakes to watching for birds of prey soaring overhead. And with the pass, you can explore it all without worrying about entrance fees. Next, we have Zion National Park in Utah. This park is known for its towering sandstone cliffs, winding canyons, and emerald pools. There are over 90 miles of trails to explore, ranging from easy strolls to strenuous hikes, so you’re sure to find something that suits your fitness level. And with the pass, you can come back as many times as you want throughout the year to soak up all the beauty Zion has to offer. Another site that’s included with the America the Beautiful Pass is the Everglades National Park in Florida. This park is the largest subtropical wilderness in the United States, spanning over 1.5 million acres. It’s home to a diverse array of wildlife, including alligators, manatees, and the endangered Florida panther. There are plenty of ways to explore the Everglades, from hiking trails to airboat tours to backcountry camping. And with the pass, you can experience it all at no extra cost. Moving on, we have Yellowstone National Park in Wyoming. This park is one of the most iconic destinations in the country, known for its geysers, hot springs, waterfalls, and wildlife. There are over 2 million acres to explore, with over 900 miles of hiking trails winding through the park. And with the America the Beautiful Pass, you can take your time discovering all the wonders of Yellowstone without worrying about spending a fortune on entrance fees. And finally, we have the Grand Canyon National Park in Arizona. This park needs no introduction, as it’s one of the most famous attractions in the world. The Grand Canyon is a stunning masterpiece of nature, with layered rock formations, stunning viewpoints, and endless opportunities for adventure. And with the America the Beautiful Pass, you can explore it all without breaking the bank. So there you have it, just a small sampling of the amazing sites you can access with the America the Beautiful Pass. As a Black person living in America, I know firsthand how important it is to find ways to experience all the beauty this country has to offer without going into debt. And I believe this pass is one of the best ways to do just that. So whether you’re a seasoned national park enthusiast or someone who’s never been to a federal recreation site before, I encourage you to consider investing in the America the Beautiful Pass. It’s a small price to pay for a whole year’s worth of adventure and wonder.
