New entry fees at RMNP take effect Thursday

Beginning Thursday, your wallet will take an extra hit if you're visiting Rocky Mountain National Park.

On that day, the country's fifth-most visited national park rolls out increased entrance fees, including a new day-use pass.

Here are the changes and new costs:

• A new day-use pass will cost $20 for vehicles and motorcycles, and $10 per person entering the park on bike

• A seven-day pass will cost $30 for vehicles, up from $20

• A seven-day pass will cost $25 for motorcycles and $15 per person entering the park on bike

• A Rocky Mountain National Park annual pass will cost $50, up from $40

Crowds, climate to shape Rocky’s future

The last time Rocky Mountain National Park increased user fees was in 2009, with the annual pass jumping from $35 to $40.

In 2016, campground fees will increase to $26 a night, up from $20.

By 2017, a Rocky Mountain National Park annual pass will increase to $60, park officials say.

Last year, Rocky Mountain National Park attracted a record 3.4 million visitors, who spent $217 million.

This year, the park has already attracted 2.9 million visitors and is on pace for a record 4 million.

Rocky Mountain National Park on pace for record year

Xplore reporter Stephen Meyers covers the outdoors and recreation for the Coloradoan. Follow him on Twitter @stemeyer or @XploreNoCo.