National Park Service celebrates 110th birthday with free entry Tuesday

Bryce Canyon's Inspiration Point area. Photo: National Park Service

The National Park Service is celebrating its 110th birthday on Tuesday, and they’re inviting everyone to the party — especially those looking for an excuse to spend the day outside.

To mark the occasion, the NPS is waiving entrance fees for U.S. citizens and residents at national parks that normally charge admission.

The birthday falls during National Park Week, which runs Aug. 22-30 this year. The National Park Service is offering a few suggestions for marking the occasion, from hiking, biking, or boating to attending a ranger program, earning a Junior Ranger badge, or simply taking in the night sky.

And, because every good birthday party needs dessert, the agency also suggests BYOBC: Bring Your Own Birthday Cake and have a picnic in a national park (but remember not to feed wildlife).

The fee waiver applies to entrance fees only. Other costs, including reservations, timed-entry requirements, camping and other fees, may still apply, so visitors should check with their destination before heading out.

The National Park Service was established on Aug. 25, 1916, and has since grown to include more than 400 national parks and programs. Their mission is to preserve unimpaired the natural and cultural resources and values of the National Park System for the enjoyment, education, and inspiration of this and future generations.

For Utahns and anyone willing to make a road trip of it, the birthday provides a fitting reason to revisit an old favorite or finally cross a national park off the bucket list.