Sequoia-Kings Canyon National Parks raise entry fees for 2016

Entrance fees to Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks are going up at the start of the new year.

A single-vehicle pass good for seven days will increase to $30, up from $20.

An annual pass will increase to $50, up from $30.

To address concerns about underserved populations being unable to afford the higher fees, four free days are being added next year: April 23 (Junior Ranger Day); June 4 (National Trails Day); June 18 (Buffalo Soldiers special event); and Dec. 11 (Nation’s Christmas Tree celebration).

Nationwide free days also will be available but have not been announced for 2016.

Revenues from entrance fees are used to support park projects, rehabilitate trails and signs, develop exhibits and visitor centers, provide shuttle transportation inside the parks and improve accessibility, the parks said.

Additional revenues will be spent similarly and on other projects, such as the rehabilitation of the Crystal Cave trail and access area, habitat improvement, replacement of outdated outdoor exhibits and more, the parks said.

Wilderness and some camping fees also are going up. Wilderness permits, now $15, will change to $10 per permit plus $5 per person.

Motorcycle fee increases are being phased in at $20 per individual in 2016 and $25 per individual in 2017.

This story was originally published November 25, 2015 at 6:43 PM with the headline "Sequoia-Kings Canyon National Parks raise entry fees for 2016."