Does Yellowstone accept senior passes?

Yes, Yellowstone National Park proudly accepts Senior Passes as part of the America the Beautiful – National Parks and Federal Recreational Lands Pass Program, which offers lifetime or annual access to U.S. citizens and permanent residents aged 62 and older. This program was designed to make it easier and more affordable for seniors to enjoy America’s most treasured natural wonders, and Yellowstone is one of the best places to take advantage of it.

Quick-Reference: Yellowstone Senior Pass Details

Pass Type	Eligibility	Cost	Benefits
Lifetime Senior Pass	U.S. citizens or permanent residents aged 62+	$80 (one-time)	Free entrance to Yellowstone and 2,000+ federal sites; 50% off selected amenities
Annual Senior Pass	U.S. citizens or permanent residents aged 62+	$20 (per year)	Same benefits as lifetime; can be upgraded to lifetime after 4 years
Accepted at Yellowstone?	Yes – All 5 entrances	Included in pass cost	Covers pass holder + vehicle occupants or up to 3 adults on foot/bike
Where to Buy	Online (USGS.gov) or park entrance stations	—	Immediate access upon purchase with valid photo ID

 

When a senior visitor arrives at any of Yellowstone’s five entrances—West Yellowstone, Gardiner, Cooke City, Cody, or Jackson Hole—the Senior Pass allows entry for the pass holder and up to three accompanying adults in a single, private vehicle. If entering by motorcycle, the pass admits the pass holder and one passenger. Essentially, it waives the standard park entrance fee, which is typically $35 per vehicle. For those who love exploring multiple parks, the pass covers entry at more than 2,000 federal recreation sites across the United States, including all national parks, monuments, and wildlife refuges.

There are two types of Senior Passes available: the Lifetime Senior Pass, which costs a one-time fee of $80, and the Annual Senior Pass, which costs $20. Many visitors start with the annual option, and once they’ve purchased four of those, they can exchange them for a lifetime pass. Passes can be purchased in person at Yellowstone’s entrance stations, visitor centers, or ranger offices when open, and they can also be ordered online through the U.S. Geological Survey website. When buying the pass in person, seniors must provide proof of age and citizenship, usually with a government-issued photo ID such as a driver’s license or passport.

While the Senior Pass covers the park’s entrance fee, it does not automatically include amenities such as camping, lodging, or guided tours. However, it often provides discounts of up to 50 percent on certain expanded amenities—like camping sites, boat launches, or interpretive tours—if they are operated directly by the National Park Service. For instance, at Yellowstone’s campgrounds managed by the NPS (such as Mammoth, Indian Creek, or Slough Creek), the Senior Pass can reduce nightly fees significantly, making it a great benefit for those who prefer a longer, immersive stay. It’s worth noting that some campgrounds and lodging facilities in Yellowstone are operated by private concessioners, like Yellowstone National Park Lodges, and these do not always honor federal discounts. Therefore, visitors are advised to check ahead or ask at reservation time if the discount applies.

In addition to cost savings, the Senior Pass simplifies travel logistics. Once obtained, it allows unlimited access to Yellowstone for a full year or lifetime, depending on the type purchased, which means seniors can visit multiple times across different seasons—witnessing spring’s baby bison, summer’s wildflowers, or autumn’s golden valleys—without worrying about paying again. The pass is valid at all entrances, so whether visitors are entering through Montana, Wyoming, or Idaho, they’ll enjoy seamless access to the park’s 3,472 square miles of wilderness.

Visitors should remember that the Senior Pass is non-transferable and must always be accompanied by a valid photo ID. If the pass is lost or stolen, it cannot be replaced for free and must be repurchased. For the best experience, seniors planning a Yellowstone trip should also familiarize themselves with the park’s accessibility programs, as the National Park Service offers detailed resources on accessible trails, restrooms, and scenic overlooks suitable for visitors of all abilities.

In short, Yellowstone National Park fully honors the Senior Pass, making it easier and more affordable for older travelers to enjoy the park’s geysers, wildlife, and vast landscapes. For those 62 and older, it is not just a discount—it’s an invitation to keep exploring one of the most beautiful and historic places in America for years to come.